November misery index drops to 3-month low

The Philippines’ adjusted misery index slid to 15.8% in November, the lowest in three months when it logged 15.7% in August. This reflected easing inflation and underemployment rates during the period. The index, which now incorporates adjusted underemployment rate* alongside inflation and unemployment rates, offers a broader measure of economic discomfort. Originally developed by economist Arthur Okun, the misery index serves as a proxy for economic distress. A lower reading typically signals better economic health, though structural issues may still persist beneath the surface.