In the second quarter of 2025, the Bicol Region sustained positive economic momentum, with inflation easing to 1.8 percent from 2.7 percent in the previous quarter—well below the Bicol Regional Development Plan (RDP) 2023–2028 target of 2.0 to 4.0 percent. This was driven by price drops in essentials like rice and corn, along with slower increases in transport and communication. However, inflation rose in restaurants and recreation, reflecting stronger demand for non-essentials, mirroring improved household confidence.
Labor market conditions improved as the employment rate rose to 95.2 percent and unemployment dropped to 4.8 percent. Still, underemployment remained high at 21.2 percent, highlighting the need to improve job quality and address labor mismatch.
Agriculture showed mixed results—rice production increased by 6.53 percent, but pest outbreaks and the Mt. Bulusan eruption caused localized production losses. Government aid and KADIWA markets helped cushion the impact. Mining grew by 55.2 percent in value, driven by gold output and higher tax revenues. Tourism also rebounded through cultural, culinary, and marine attractions, better transport systems, and active community participation—boosting local economies and promoting inclusive regional growth.