MANILA — The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas expects inflation in April to fall within the 5.6 percent to 6.4 percent range, citing rising prices of food and fuel.

“Inflation risks have intensified due to upward price pressures from significantly higher domestic petroleum prices, rising costs of key food items such as rice, fish, and meat, increased electricity charges, and peso depreciation,” the central bank said in a statement Thursday.

The BSP said lower prices of vegetables and fruits may help ease overall inflation, but warned that upside risks remain and require close monitoring.

The central bank said it will continue to assess incoming data, particularly on inflation trends and economic growth outlook.

“We will continue to monitor recent developments in the Middle East for their implications on inflation and economic activity,” it said.

Inflation in March was recorded at 4.1 percent.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Statistics Authority is scheduled to release the official April inflation data on May 5.