The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) is taking a stand against the dissemination of misleading information by social media "influencers."
National Statistician Claire Dennis Mapa has voiced his concerns regarding the misleading content surrounding inflation being circulated by self-proclaimed "influencers" on TikTok.
As the country grapples with rising consumer prices, Mapa emphasizes the importance of the public gaining a comprehensive understanding of the inflation report and its implications.
"The issue of inflation is of utmost importance and warrants thorough study. As earlier mentioned, there are numerous factors that influence fluctuations in the inflation rate, given the wide range of commodities involved,” Mapa explains.
Recognizing the significance of this topic, he urges the public to delve into the details, stating, "The PSA appeals to the public to engage with and thoroughly comprehend our inflation report."
Recently, online videos explaining Philippine inflation have come under fire from netizens for their misleading content.
To counter disinformation, Mapa suggests that individuals seeking accurate information about inflation should start by visiting the Frequently Asked Questions section on the agency's official website.
This resource serves as a reliable guide, offering a wealth of information to help untangle the complexities of inflation, the PSA chief states.
Recent data reveals a notable increase in the country's inflation rate, which rose to 6.1 percent in September, surpassing the previous month's figure of 5.3 percent. However, it remains lower than the 6.9 percent recorded a year ago.
The surge in food prices, particularly rice, along with escalating fuel costs, has been identified as the primary contributors to the consecutive high inflation rates observed in September.