The central bank chief cited a “benign” inflation outlook that remains well within its target range and said inflation expectations “remain well-anchored.” With price pressures easing, policymakers saw room to support economic activity without threatening price stability.
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) on Thursday reduced its policy rate by 25 basis points to 5.0 percent, maintaining its relaxed monetary stance amid stable inflation expectations.
BSP Governor Eli Remolona Jr. said the Monetary Board adjusted the overnight deposit and lending rates to 5 percent and 6 percent, respectively, reflecting the central bank’s shift toward a more accommodative stance, following months of stable price movements.
Warning signs of a slowing Philippine economy may prompt the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas to implement “jumbo” cuts that would bring the policy rate back to the prepandemic level.
Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. sees 2024 inflation settling toward the lower end of its 3.3-3.6 percent target range and believes the Philippine central bank will hold off from cutting policy rates until its October 17 meeting.