Inflation Steals the Spark from Valentine's Day

• Inflation in the Philippines has led to more frugal planning for romantic getaways in recent years.
• However, this year, costs have stabilized, with a decline in inflation reported by the Philippine Statistics Authority.
• Prices for restaurant meals, salon services, and accommodations have decreased, making it more economical for Valentine's Day outings, while the cost of preparing meals at home, particularly meat and vegetables, has fallen significantly.

In light of inflation, lovers have been more frugal in their planning of romantic getaways in recent years in the Philippines.

But this year, costs have leveled out, reducing the previously skyrocketing costs. The Philippine Statistics Authority's (PSA) data indicated a decline in inflation.

If you're going on a Valentine's Day date, you might be pleased to hear that restaurant inflation decreased to 5.4% at the end of January, from 7.7% the previous year. While salons and personal grooming shrank to 5.1% from 7.1%, accommodation service dropped to 2.7% from 4.5%.

While petrol costs have remained relatively consistent, going out to that special restaurant has been less of a burden. Overall transport inflation has increased little from 11.1% to only 0.4% this year.

It would be more economical to prepare for your loved someone on Valentine's Day if you plan to do so. Prices for meat and vegetables have fallen to -20.8% and -0.7%, respectively.

In the meantime, the cost of wine and chocolate hasn't changed in recent years.

The cost of plush toys and flowers remained quite variable, based on the number and quality you plan to present your special someone.

White and pink roses are less expensive than red roses, which cost P899 from Flowerstore.ph. Blue Magic's stuffed toys are reasonably priced; the least expensive one costs P379, though.

It will be costly if you decide that Valentine's Day is the ideal occasion to pop the question. The price of P12,699 for 99 red roses is P13,499 for the ultimate proposal bundle, which includes a variety of floral designs.

Valentine's Day in the US

Couples on a budget and single people may want to consider having fish for Valentine's Day supper rather than steak because the most recent inflation data indicates that costs have changed from the previous year.

According to the most recent Consumer Price Index, the price of raw steak increased by over 11% at the grocery store in January, while the cost of fresh seafood decreased by 4%.

On Valentine's Day, there is a desire to eat in. According to a survey by at-home meal provider Hello Fresh, 42% of participants stated they would rather eat at home than out.

In addition, a lot of grocery stores provide digital incentives, such as shopping-saving applications that may be applied at the register.