3.87M Filipinos poorer in H1 2021 – PSA

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) recently released a report stating that 3.87 million Filipinos have become poorer in the first half of 2021. This is a significant increase from the 2.6 million Filipinos who were considered poor in the same period last year.

The report also revealed that the poverty incidence rate in the country has risen to 23.7%, which is the highest it has been in over a decade. This means that almost a quarter of the Philippine population is living below the poverty line.

The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly played a significant role in this increase in poverty. The lockdowns and restrictions imposed to curb the spread of the virus have resulted in job losses and reduced incomes for many Filipinos. The closure of businesses and the decline in economic activity have also contributed to the rise in poverty.

The government has implemented various measures to address the issue of poverty, such as the Social Amelioration Program (SAP) and the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). However, these programs have been criticized for being insufficient and not reaching all those who need assistance.

The PSA report highlights the urgent need for the government to take more decisive action to address poverty in the country. This includes providing more comprehensive and effective social protection programs, creating more job opportunities, and promoting economic growth.

It is also essential for the government to prioritize the needs of the most vulnerable sectors of society, such as women, children, and the elderly. These groups are often the hardest hit by poverty and require targeted interventions to improve their living conditions.

In conclusion, the increase in poverty in the Philippines is a cause for concern, and urgent action is needed to address this issue. The government must take a more proactive approach to poverty reduction, focusing on creating sustainable solutions that will benefit all Filipinos, especially the most vulnerable. Only then can we hope to see a significant improvement in the lives of millions of Filipinos who are struggling to make ends meet.