The good news for that last quarter of 2004 is that palay production was up 6.9 percent and fish production was up by 13.8 percent.

Sugarcane and abaca fiber production were up by 30 percent and 32.1 percent respectively.

Copra production remained virtually steady as it experienced a slight decrease of 0.7 percent.

There was a 26.8 percent increase in number of telephone landlines and a 95 percent increase in cellsites.

The bad news is that inflation rose from 1.9 percent (in the 3rd quarter) to 7.1 percent with fuel, light and water increasing by 11.2 percent.

These data came form different government sources.

What do we make of these?

The increase in fuel prices due to the upsurge in the price of imported oil is negating gains in production in agriculture.

To keep up with inflation, our productive sectors, primarily agriculture must “increase its increase” so to speak. It must grow faster than the inflation rate to keep average family income at least steady.

If high inflation continues, a deterioration in the levels of living will occur. Government must make up for the difference (example: food for work programs). Keeping inflation in check should also be done to the extent possible.

In this region the best thing for us to do is to use our resources efficiently by minimizing wastage and maximizing economic production.