DOF urges stronger EDCom ties to fight inflation

Department of Finance (DOF) Secretary Frederick D. Go called for enhanced interagency cooperation to curb inflation and boost investments during the sixth and final 2025 meeting of the Economic Development Committee (EDCom), held on Dec. 11.

Secretary Go urged the committee to build on its accomplishments for 2025 and intensify coordination among agencies to strengthen the country’s economic resilience.

The meeting reviewed the implementation of key economic initiatives under EDCom’s guidance, highlighting progress in managing inflation and stimulating investment across sectors.

In response to food inflation, Executive Order No. 105 was issued in November 2025 to maintain current rice tariffs for the rest of the year, a move intended to stabilize prices and protect low-income households.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) reinforced collaboration with the Food and Drug Administration to expedite deployment of the African Swine Fever vaccine.

The DA and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) jointly monitored domestic pork markets to ensure affordability and availability.

To safeguard the national sugar supply, the Sugar Regulatory Administration carried out interventions to maintain adequate buffer stocks and ensure market stability.

On non-food inflation, the economic team emphasized the need for balanced wage adjustments, recommending that any across-the-board increases be thoroughly assessed by the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board.

Fuel subsidy allocations in the 2026 General Appropriations Act were redirected to support social sector initiatives as part of inflation-mitigation efforts.

To drive agricultural investment, agencies were briefed on Republic Act No. 11901, the new Agri-Agra Law, which mandates banks to set aside a portion of their loanable funds for agriculture and fisheries.

The committee also endorsed enhancements to the Agricultural Investment Interest Subsidy Program to stimulate rural productivity.

In infrastructure and energy, the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) worked with the Department of Energy (DOE) to conduct System Impact Studies (SIS), ensuring that proposed renewable energy projects are compatible with the power grid and uphold system reliability.

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) also advanced digital connectivity through projects to improve telecommunications infrastructure and extend services to underserved areas.

Among DICT’s priorities is the adoption of blockchain technology, which will be rolled out to relevant agencies in the first quarter of 2026 to promote transparency and inclusion.

“As we move forward, I encourage all members to build on these achievements, ensure timely implementation of ongoing initiatives, and continue identifying opportunities to enhance efficiency, transparency, and impact,” Secretary Go said.

He urged the EDCom to remain vigilant in addressing future challenges, particularly in the areas of food security, food pricing, and social protection.