Tag Archive for: Poverty in the Philippines

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Fighting the New Spike Of Malaria in the Philippines

Malaria in the PhilippinesThe Philippines is familiar with the problem of malaria. In 1970, the country’s malaria morbidity rate per 100,000 people was nearly 80%. The mosquitoes that transmit the parasitic disease extend all across the nation. With the devastation that the Philippines faced, its government became very committed to limiting and reducing the damage caused by the disease.

Success in Malaria Reduction

One of the many ways the Philippines fought malaria was through an increase in surveillance systems, working toward finding specific malaria outbreaks to target with boosted treatments. The government’s actions were extremely successful. In 2005, the Philippines achieved a reduction rate of 92% in cases and a decrease in the malaria mortality rate by 98%. Additionally, around 60.9% of the country’s provinces were officially declared malaria-free in 2018.

Leveraging Digital Technology

By employing new digital technology, specifically its Online Malaria Information System, the Philippines is able to catalog, process and distribute information on malaria outbreaks. This allows for speedy treatment and prediction of future outbreaks by monitoring reports made by locals. This system is available to everyone on Android, so it is very accessible to the Filipino people.

Current Challenges and Advanced Strategies

Due to significant humanitarian aid and government infrastructure expansion, the Philippines experienced a general decline in malaria cases. However, in 2023, the country saw a sharp increase in cases, about 6,248, nearly doubling from the previous year, which was 3,245. Many health professionals attribute this rise to the relaxation of restrictions in the post-COVID-19 world. Nonetheless, new health centers are now focused on eliminating and preventing the spread of malaria.

Filipino health centers collect data on patients and the environment to monitor potential malaria outbreaks. Quick identification leads to quick treatment and with sufficient treatment, the Philippines aims to be entirely malaria-free by 2030. The approach is more complex than merely distributing surveys or looking for common symptoms.

The health centers are exploring advanced diagnostic and geographical mapping tools, improved surveillance technology and the identification of less common and often overlooked symptoms of malaria. With better diagnostic tools, medical professionals can assess patients more quickly and determine which strain of malaria is affecting them, enabling faster and more effective treatment.

The geographical mapping tools allow people to monitor the spread of outbreaks, see where the infected mosquitoes are moving and act proactively against the disease. As the World Health Organization (WHO) advises, surveillance is one of the best ways to prevent and combat malaria, so the Philippines is looking to improve its preexisting system to fight this current wave of malaria.

Conclusion

Malaria is one of the most notorious and dangerous diseases and humanity has been fighting it for decades. The Philippines, in particular, has a long and difficult history with malaria but has developed effective systems to combat it. The Filipinos’ active efforts to reduce malaria in their country offer hope for a malaria-free world, evidenced by the 72 provinces that are now officially malaria-free.

Another promising development in the fight against recent malaria outbreaks is the emergence of new vaccines that provide immunity against various strains of the life-threatening disease. With a vaccine in the works and new health centers being established, the Philippines is optimistic about seeing a reduction in malaria cases soon.

– Paige Tamasi

Paige is based in Los Gatos, CA, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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7 NGOs Safeguarding Overseas Filipino Workers

7 NGOs Safeguarding Overseas Filipino WorkersThe Philippines, a nation marked by vibrant culture and rapid economic development, faces significant challenges, including widespread poverty and a vast economic disparity between social classes. These ongoing issues compel many Filipinos to seek employment overseas. Known as Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), these individuals often face difficult working conditions, including exploitation and harsh work environments, while striving to support their families through remittances. These financial contributions are vital, lifting many households out of poverty and supporting the broader Philippine economy.

Despite the vital role they play, OFWs often contend with insufficient protection and recognition of their rights. To address these issues, the Philippine government and various nongovernmental organizations are actively working to improve conditions for OFWs, advocating for their rights and providing essential services to ensure their welfare and security. This concerted effort aims to safeguard the well-being of OFWs and optimize the benefits of their economic contributions to the country. Here are some of the NGOs supporting OFWs:

Unlad Kabayan

UNLAD Kabayan focuses on enhancing the business skills of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). Earning higher wages than their counterparts in the Philippines does not always translate to financial savvy; many OFWs, despite years of working abroad, return home without substantial savings. Established in 1996, UNLAD Kabayan equips OFWs with essential knowledge to effectively invest their earnings and start businesses. The organization also supports OFWs in adjusting back to life in the Philippines, aiding their reintegration into Philippine society. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure that OFWs can secure their financial futures and contribute positively to their communities.

The Economic Resource Centre for Overseas Workers

Filipinos working abroad often encounter numerous challenges, from accidents and financial shortages to mistreatment by employers, including unpaid wages. The Economic Resource Centre for Overseas Workers, a nongovernmental organization, provides essential economic resources to support these individuals during such difficulties. The organizations’s efforts help mitigate the impact of unexpected adversities, ensuring that OFWs have the necessary support to address their immediate financial needs.

ATIKHA

Many OFWs seek employment abroad with plans to retire in the Philippines once they have accumulated sufficient funds. However, some opt to migrate permanently to their host countries, drawn by better economic opportunities. Such migrations can be costly, requiring substantial support for the workers and their families. This is where ATIKHA, a dedicated organization, excels. Its primary goal is to assist OFW families during their migration process, providing the necessary guidance and resources to facilitate their transition to a new country.

KAKKAMPI

Founded in Geneva, Switzerland, KAKKAMPI is an association dedicated to supporting Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). The organization provides a broad spectrum of services, including funding classes and loans, designed to enhance financial security for OFWs. Through these ongoing efforts, KAKKAMPI aims to safeguard OFWs from exploitation and ensure they have the financial resources necessary to succeed.

WE AIM OFW

WE AIM OFW collaborates closely with the Philippine government to support the One Model and Great Community (OMG) initiative. This comprehensive program encompasses various aspects such as financial support, housing funds, livelihood programs and scholarships. The organization empowers Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) to manage their earnings wisely and contribute positively to their communities, ensuring their financial stability and community development.

Center For Migrant Advocacy

Founded in 2002, the Center For Migrant Advocacy dedicates itself to enhancing the welfare of overseas workers globally. The organization achieves its goals through policy advocacy, networking, information dissemination, direct assistance and capability building. Key initiatives include encouraging overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to report any abuses they or their peers endure. By raising awareness of OFW rights and welfare, the organization plays a crucial role in protecting these rights. Additionally, the Center For Migrant Advocacy offers various volunteer opportunities, empowering individuals to contribute to meaningful change.

Global Filipino Movement

The Global Filipino Movement, established by various Christian groups, provides emotional and spiritual support to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). Recognizing the Philippines’ predominantly Christian background, the organization acknowledges the significant role faith plays for OFWs facing loneliness and hardship abroad. The NGO delivers ministry services to OFWs and their families, helping them cope during challenging periods. Active for 13 years, the Global Filipino Movement has been instrumental in bolstering the resilience of Filipino families through tough times.

Looking Ahead

The ongoing efforts to support OFWs can potentially bring about the security of their financial futures, thereby positively impacting both home and host countries. Continued advocacy and support could be vital in addressing the challenges faced by OFWs and maximizing the benefits of their contributions.

– Neil Misola

Neil is based in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada and focuses on Business and Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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USAID Programs in the Philippines 

USAID Programs in the PhilippinesIn 1961, President John F. Kennedy founded USAID, an independent federal agency that works to advance national security through generosity to nations in need. It promotes agricultural, educational and industrial programs in developing nations, along with supporting their governments. USAID programs in the Philippines focus on helping the nation’s youth and underprivileged through education and employment programs, along with supporting the nation’s government.

USAID Enters the Philippines

The United States has been assisting in the Philippines’ development since 1961. When USAID became an official federal agency, the Philippines became one of the agency’s first partner organizations. Since the start of the partnership, the U.S. has invested more than 290 billion pesos through different programs in the country.

In the first 20 years in the Philippines, the U.S. helped develop infrastructure, along with advancing the country’s agricultural and medical capabilities. Since then, USAID has been directed at the health and education sectors, along with continued investment in infrastructure.

Poverty and Education in the Philippines

The Philippines is among the poorest nations in Southeast Asia. Around 18% of the population lives below the poverty line. With low access to education, nine out of 10 children in the Philippines are unable to read or understand reading material by the age of 10.

One of the biggest categories of USAID programs in the Philippines is educational assistance. Since 1961, the U.S. has created and implemented numerous programs working to help improve basic reading and math skills among developing students and putting learning objectives in place that will help students become prepared for the workplace.

USAID Education Programs

ABC+ works with children in grades K-3 to advance literacy skills in Filipino and English. The program teaches instructors how to teach reading and math in both languages and how to create effective out-of-classroom work that will help students learn at home. With help from U.S. universities such as Florida State University, the program is working to design college courses for early literacy development to help prepare future teachers.

Gabay is a USAID program working to “strengthen the access of deaf, blind and deafblind children to quality education” according to USAID. Through the program, USAID helps train teachers and parents in “inclusive education strategies” and provides assistive devices to schools and community centers to help accommodate students with disabilities. Gabay has helped strengthen the sign language curriculum in the Philippines and has helped local governments better support children with disabilities.

Opportunity 2.0 is a program that works to help out-of-school youth find job opportunities. More than 3 million Filipinos aged 16-24 are either not enrolled in school, have not finished secondary school or are unemployed, according to USAID. The program offers placement in education systems that help prepare students for college, has job training programs and has courses on how to start and grow a business. Opportunity 2.0 has offices in 15 cities in the Philippines and is available to any Filipino aged 16-24 who does not have a bachelor’s degree.

YouthWorks PH

YouthWorks PH is one of the biggest education-based programs USAID has in the Philippines. More than 50% of the population in the Philippines is under the age of 30, making their education an important aspect of the country’s development, according to USAID. Through this program, USAID works with The Philippine Business for Education to provide “training and employment opportunities for at least 40,000 youth through an innovative work-based training approach,” according to USAID.

It focuses heavily on the school-to-work transition period to make sure members learn any workplace skills they could not learn in high school or college. By helping more students become qualified for the workplace, YouthWorks is helping to lower the unemployment rate for ages 15-24.

Creating Opportunities

By supporting different education programs in the Philippines, USAID is helping students get the necessary education needed to find opportunities in school. Since 2020, the unemployment rate in the Philippines has dropped from 10.3% to 4%. Literacy rates hit a high of 99% thanks to the development of the nation’s education system. USAID programs in the Philippines have yielded encouraging results in the past 10 years, and are continuing to grow every day, helping Filipino students create opportunities inside and out of the classroom.

– Nicolas Mezzaucella

Nicolas is based in New Rochelle, NY, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Project PEARLS: Alleviating Poverty in the Philippines

Project PEARLS: Alleviating Poverty in the PhilippinesIn 2010, Melissa Villa co-founded Project PEARLS in the Ulingan community of Tondo, Manila, a place known for its charcoal production where residents lived in dire conditions without essential services or education. Project PEARLS began its journey to alleviate the hardships faced by these families, who were later relocated to Bulacan in 2013 by the National Housing Authority. This initiative highlights the stark realities of extreme poverty in the poorest areas of the Philippines and the organization’s commitment to making a substantial difference.

Inequality and Economic Challenges

Despite a slight decrease in poverty incidence as reported by the Philippine Statistics Authority, with a fall to 22.4% in 2023 from 23.7% in 2021, significant challenges remain. Approximately 25.2 million Filipinos still struggle to meet basic needs, highlighting the persistent inequality within the country. Wealthy regions prosper while impoverished communities lag, often exacerbated by insufficient government initiatives to redistribute wealth effectively. With looming threats of climate disturbance and rising inflation rates, the poorest are increasingly vulnerable, making the role of NGOs like Project PEARLS crucial as they provide essential support and services.

Expanding Impact and Future Goals

In a revealing interview with The Borgen Project, Melissa Villa, co-founder of Project PEARLS, detailed the organization’s inception and ongoing efforts to combat extreme poverty in the Philippines. From its beginnings in Tondo, Project PEARLS has expanded its reach to include multiple regions such as Bulacan, Cavite and Mindanao. The organization now implements programs aligned with the first four United Nations (U.N.) Sustainable Development Goals, covering education, health care, nutrition and skills development. These initiatives aim to lift children and families out of poverty and offer them a chance at a better future. Melissa Villa’s continued leadership and dedication are pivotal as Project PEARLS strives to extend its lifeline to more regions and address the complex facets of poverty in the Philippines.

Addressing Poverty in the Philippines

Villa shared alarming statistics highlighting the scope of poverty in the nation: “In the first semester of 2023, the poverty incidence among the population was estimated at 22.4% or approximately 25.24 million Filipinos,” indicating the dire economic conditions many face. She further explained that these figures represent individuals whose income fails to meet basic life necessities, emphasizing the critical need for targeted poverty alleviation initiatives.

Project PEARLS’ Community Impact

Through its comprehensive approach, Project PEARLS has made significant strides in alleviating poverty. Villa noted, “Project PEARLS serves 3000 meals weekly and supports over 750 scholars from preschool to college.” The organization’s G.R.O.W. program, according to Villa, empowers women by teaching skills such as macramé and shirt printing, enhancing their income opportunities. These ongoing initiatives not only address immediate needs but also aim to foster long-term community resilience.

“This year, we plan to reopen our health clinic in the slum community of Tondo and build a small preschool classroom,” Villa shared, outlining the organization’s goals to expand its educational support. It also aims to reach indigenous and marginalized communities, extending its impact beyond the immediate regions they currently serve.

Looking Ahead

Villa reflected on the organization’s role and future, stating, “Project PEARLS is more than just a feeding program; it is a global movement of individuals from diverse backgrounds uniting to fight poverty in the Philippines.” Her words underscore the transformative impact of its work, which continues to offer hope and practical solutions to those in dire need. As it moves forward, Project PEARLS remains committed to enriching lives and empowering communities, navigating through challenges toward a more prosperous future for all it serves.

– Lauren Alkhalil

Lauren is based in London, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Everything You Should Know About Poverty in the Philippines

Poverty in the PhilippinesThe Philippines is an archipelagic country in Southeast Asia, consisting of more than 7,000 islands. The South China Sea bounds it to the west, the Philippine Sea to the east and the Celebes Sea to the south. The country has made gains in poverty reduction but further reduction is necessary. The future of poverty in the Philippines rests on the country’s economic development and the work of government initiatives. Here is everything you need to know about poverty in the Philippines.

The Extent of Poverty in the Philippines

Poverty in the Philippines declined to 22.4% in 2023, down 1.3% from the same period in 2021. However, despite this decrease, the current state of poverty and inequality is startling. The poverty incidence was 22.4% in the first semester of 2023, affecting approximately 25.24 million Filipinos. The poverty incidence refers to the proportion of Filipinos whose per capita income is insufficient to meet their basic needs. On average, a family of five needs at least PhP 13,797 monthly to cover their basic needs, according to the Philippine News Agency. Additionally, the subsistence incidence or the proportion of Filipinos whose income is insufficient to buy basic food needs stood at 8.7%, meaning approximately 9.79 million Filipinos are unable to fulfil basic food needs.

These statistics demonstrate the extent of poverty in the Philippines and provoke the question of why the Philippines continues to struggle from poverty despite its growing economy. The Philippines struggles with a huge disparity in wealth equality. According to the World Bank, the Philippines holds one of the highest Gini Coefficients in the East Asian and Pacific region, sitting at 40.7% as of 2021. This means that, despite economic improvements, those most susceptible to poverty may not see the benefits of economic growth.

The Affected Population

Poverty affects the unemployed and underemployed and those who lack education most in the Philippines as they are unable to find opportunities or jobs which pay a sufficient wage. Environmental instability is also an issue, in regions most vulnerable to natural disasters schools have to shut down, disrupting education. In April 2024, hundreds of schools in the Philippines had to close due to extreme heat, an issue which annually rising global temperatures will exacerbate.

The World Bank estimates that 60% of the land in the Philippines is vulnerable to multiple natural hazards. This causes severe damage to homes and transport infrastructure, interrupting business and education and costing billions to repair. This has been an issue in Mindanao recently, where flooding caused more than 411,000 people to flee.

The State of the Economy

Despite the pessimism surrounding poverty in the Philippines, there is reason for optimism. The Philippine economy grew by 5.5% in 2023, making it one of the best-performing economies in Asia, according to the Philippine News Agency, but high inflation has offset the benefits of income growth on poverty reduction. To overcome inflation, growth must remain consistently high. Currently, economic growth for 2024-2025 could be at an average of 5.8% if growth in the domestic market is achieved. The World Bank expects this domestic market to grow due to the thriving tourism sector and the information technology-business process outsourcing industry. This indicates a bright future for the Philippine economy. For the poorest Filipinos to benefit from the projected growth in 2024, income gains from economic growth must be guided towards reducing inequality.

Positive Progress in Poverty Alleviation

The reduced poverty rate from 2021 to 2023 is a move in the right direction. The government achieved this through initiatives such as the fuel subsidy and the one-time rice allowance, according to the Philippine News Agency. However, greater income equality must still be strived for if President Marcos wants to reach his goal of a single-digit poverty rate by 2028. The Philippine Development Plan of 2023-2028 is one initiative which can help achieve this goal. This plan aims to bring economic and social transformation by reinvigorating job creation and accelerating poverty reduction. It aims to be the mechanism of implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and includes programmes to improve education and to upskill the workforce. If The Philippines achieves this plan, it can make further poverty reductions by addressing the key areas where inequality thrives.

To relieve the problem of environmental instability, the government is building new infrastructure under The Metro Manila Flood Management Project. This benefits the Metropolitan Manila area but fails to help other areas susceptible to flooding. This only furthers the issue of inequality, benefiting the city of Manila instead of reaching more deprived areas. More deprived areas struggle to recover from natural hazards, weakening their ability to become more prosperous and resistant to annually occurring hazards. Last year, Bulacan was placed under a state of calamity due to the damage that typhoons and subsequent flooding caused.

Looking Ahead

Despite projected economic growth and current initiatives being in place to address poverty, there remains a significant proportion of Filipinos who are vulnerable to poverty. While there is room for improvement, the country has great potential to reduce poverty further. The progress made in 2023 and the current economic growth projections are a testament to this. The persistence of inequality requires greater attention from the government in addressing areas of education and environmental relief. Initiatives to help those most vulnerable to poverty must be used to ensure more people can benefit from the coming economic growth. In this way, the Philippines can continue to progress in reducing poverty.

– Lauren Alkhalil

Lauren is based in London, UK and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project

Photo: Unsplash

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Spotlight on Danceaid

DanceaidDanceaid is a charity based in the United Kingdom (U.K.) that uses the energy of dance to transform the lives of children. Using dance-based activities, the charity raises funds to alleviate certain hardships that are often experienced by orphaned, poor and disabled children, both in the U.K. and abroad. The programs it runs focus on things such as food insecurity and education, with the aim of helping children in need reach their full potential.

Founded in 2009, Danceaid uses slogans such as “dance a little, live a little, save a life” and wants to get everyone involved, from “tiny tots to groovy grannies shaking a leg to make a difference.” DanceAid runs a whole range of dance-based events and activities to raise funds. For example, it runs dance competitions and shows, a “design your own medal hanger” scheme, triathlons and danceathons and has celebrity endorsement from JLS star Aston Merrygold.

The Main Aim of the Charity

The main aims of the charity are education and training, the prevention and relief of poverty, overseas aid and famine relief. It does this by providing finance, human resources, buildings, facilities, open space and aid services. The charity primarily operates throughout England and Wales, the Philippines, South Africa, Syria, Turkey and Ukraine.

Impacts

A key example of Danceaid’s work is in the city of Manila, the capital of the Philippines. In Manila, children are forced to live and work in the streets from as young as 3 years old and face serious problems such as food insecurity. In August 2013, Danceaid launched a “feeding program,” just after the city had been hit by monsoon floods, leaving the community without food. The charity currently feeds 100 children every day in Manila. A year later, in 2014, it launched a feeding and support program for Manila entitled Mama and Me. This program is for mothers who are so malnourished that they cannot produce breast milk and for babies who are malnourished, underweight and unwell.

Danceaid also runs projects in rural South Africa, with a focus on young people affected by HIV and AIDS. Its preschool for children aged 3 to 6 provides children with food, toys, books, education on topics such as colors, numbers and patterns and language education in both local languages and English. The charity also runs a drop-in center for affected families, which not only provides cooking utensils and food but also basic fuel to cook.

Also in South Africa, Danceaid currently runs a football program for 100 young boys, with under 13, under 15 and senior teams. The funds Danceaid raises get to put toward footballs, football boots, registration fees for players, transport to games and a healthy meal before engaging in the sport. Since Danceaid initiated this program, one of its players has subsequently been elevated to the South African Premiership, indicating its significant success.

– Eva McMonigle
Photo: Pexels

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Understanding Poverty Reduction in the Philippines

Poverty Reduction in the PhilippinesIn the Philippines, poverty has been prevalent in the lives of millions, with 22.4% of its population living below the national poverty line and 9.79 million Filipinos unable to meet their basic food needs. However, due to the efforts of poverty reduction in the Philippines, there has been a notable decrease from 2021, which saw a poverty rate of 23.7%.

With increasing urbanization and a growing middle class, poverty reduction in the Philippines is a crucial pathway toward understanding development goals and uncovering opportunities for advancement. This article will delve into the multifaceted approaches in the Philippines’ poverty reduction, analyze the strategies put in place so far and identify challenges to achieving President Ferdinand Marcos Jr’s plan to bring poverty in the Philippines down to 9% by 2028.

Current State

As evidenced by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the current state of poverty in the Philippines is one of slow but resilient progress. According to the PSA, the Proportion of Poor among families has fallen from 18% to 16.4% between 2021 and 2023, highlighting some initial progress in poverty reduction efforts.

However, the PSA’s data also indicates that urban areas, such as Manila, which has a Poverty Incidence of 5.7%, have much lower levels of poverty than rural areas, such as Leyte, which has a Poverty Incidence of 31.3%, indicating a significant urban-rural gap. By addressing factors such as access to education, health care and employment opportunities and recognizing these disparities between urban and rural areas, we can implement effective policies to foster inclusive poverty reduction in the Philippines.

Government Initiatives

Regarding government initiatives, the Philippines’ Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has implemented a program known as the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). This program promises to provide conditional cash grants to poorer households to improve the health and education of children living below the national poverty line. As of August 2015, program recipients received P27.15 billion ($0.48 billion) in cash grants.

Meanwhile, another government initiative, the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), started in 2011. This program generated employment among poor households and moved highly vulnerable households into more sustainable livelihoods, intending to expand poverty reduction in the Philippines. The program has grown from serving 46,000 families in 2011 to serving 166,000 families in 2017. Despite these efforts, challenges such as limited resources persist. However, sustainable poverty reduction is possible through monitoring and evaluating program performance and fostering transparency.

Nongovernmental Efforts

In addition to government initiatives, several nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) play a crucial role in poverty reduction in the Philippines. Organizations such as the Zero Extreme Poverty PH 2030 (ZEP) are actively involved in addressing the root causes of poverty, focusing on eight themes: Health, Education, Environment, Livelihood and Employment, Agriculture and Fisheries, Housing and Shelter, Peace and Human Security and Social Justice.

Zero Poverty PH has achieved many notable accomplishments in poverty reduction efforts. It installed a water system in Tayabasan, benefiting more than 215 families by giving them clean drinking water. Moreover, its goal to have two million Opportunity Youth in employment or self-employment by 2030 is already in progress. For example, Jonalyn, age 17, who had to drop out of school to support her family, is now receiving support from ZEP to continue her education at Hilamonan Elementary School, along with 300 other students. By working closely with communities, nongovernmental organizations can implement targeted goals that address specific needs and challenges.

Economic Challenges and Future Directions

However, alongside socioeconomic disparities, the Philippines also faces several environmental challenges from changing weather patterns, like typhoons and floods. These disasters have tragic consequences for people experiencing poverty, resulting in loss of livelihoods or homes and further deprivation. Furthermore, environmental factors such as pollution and deforestation threaten food security and create health risks.

As the lead plastic polluter in 2019, the Philippines is responsible for 36.38% of global oceanic plastic waste. Undoubtedly, this is having dire effects on those in poverty. Whether through water-transmitted illnesses or threats to livestock due to the endocrine-disrupting chemicals in the plastic, which are linked to several issues such as infertility, cancer, diabetes and increased risk of cardiovascular disease and strokes.

Moreover, government initiatives such as the Extended Producer Responsibility Act (EPRA), introduced in 2022, which requires companies to create EPR programs for plastic waste reduction, recovery and diversion, have set an expectation for an 80% decline in their plastic product footprint. Furthermore, the Philippine government has implemented a National Plan of Action for the Prevention, Reduction and Management of Marine Litter to achieve zero waste in Philippine waters by 2040. This plan will create a wide range of policies, such as improving public awareness about marine pollution and participating in international coastal clean-ups, highlighting a wide approach towards their goal.

This is important for poverty reduction as plastic pollution can affect health through cancer, cardiovascular disease and more. Furthermore, plastic pollution affects farm animals and fish through choking or entanglement, which affects not only the amount of food around but also causes a massive dip in income for those who rely on this livelihood and fishing for income.

Final Remark

Poverty reduction in the Philippines requires multifaceted approaches that cover social, economic and environmental angles. While progress is being made through government and NGO initiatives, challenges continue to persevere. By prioritizing inclusive and sustainable policies, there is a strong chance that the Philippines will continue striving toward a prosperous future.

– Emily Weir
Photo: Flickr

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Informal settlements and Slum Upgrading in the Philippines

informal settlementsThe Philippines is an archipelagic country in Southeast Asia, about 500 miles off the coast of Vietnam. In 2018, almost 43% of the urban population lived in informal settlements. These slum communities endure cramped living spaces, insecure tenure and inadequate access to essential services such as water and sanitation.

President Marcos’ urban development initiative

In 2023, President Marcos launched a flagship urban development initiative. The ambitious project set out to construct six million housing units by 2028 to benefit 30 million Filipinos and generate employment opportunities. Demonstrating a commitment to collaborative efforts, the government has successfully entered into memorandums of understanding with 47 local government units to facilitate cooperation on this housing initiative. Ten months in, the Department of Human Settlement and Urban Development reported 1.2 million housing units built across the country, exceeding program targets.

Community-based development is effective

Poor urban populations that work with rather than receive aid from institutions have been successful in the Philippines. According to the World Resources Institute, one participatory housing program in Iloilo City relocated two-thirds of the population to safer areas without evictions. With the help of the local government’s community-based housing programs, 1,250 households in Iloilo could relocate to safer places. This 2022 approach became a model for programs in other parts of the Philippines and Asia.

Reliable data is lacking

About 4.5 million people are homeless or living in informal settlements in the Philippines. Three million of this population are in Metro Manila, “the capital region and largest metropolitan area of the Philippines.” Due to the consistent risk of eviction, occupants are unwilling to give information for surveys on informal settlements.

Residents do not have formal addresses and there is no consistent data collection method for recording the size of squatting communities. As a result, most statistics given are low estimates. Prominent studies highlight the lack of data on urban poverty, hindering effective policies for people experiencing poverty.

Half of the population lives in urban areas

Rural-to-urban migration patterns are rapid and driven by the need for work. In the Asia-Pacific region alone, 150,000 people migrate daily to cities. This migration is driven by economic opportunity, a lack of jobs in rural areas and the allure of a better lifestyle. Many Filipinos from rural regions relocate to urban centers like Metro Manila, Cebu City and Davao City in search of employment, education, health care and more.

Cities are only sometimes built to handle this constant influx from rural areas. Due to overcrowding in city centers, the government continues to encourage rural development. Urban migration has led to nearly 115,000 units of public housing lying empty in rural areas. Efforts to address this migration include initiatives to promote rural development, create job opportunities outside major cities and improve living conditions in rural and urban settings.

Housing affordability is key

According to the Philippines Institute for Development Studies, low-income households cannot afford housing priced at 30% of their income, while middle-income households can. Coupled with rapid urbanization, this results in a need for more affordable housing near jobs for lower-income populations.

When housing costs are too high, families may be forced to live in inadequate or unsafe conditions, compromising their health and overall quality of life. Moreover, high housing costs can lead to financial strain, limiting individuals’ ability to save, invest or spend on other essential needs. Addressing housing affordability is crucial for promoting social inclusion, reducing poverty and fostering sustainable economic development in the Philippines.

Up to 20 typhoons and 150 earthquakes each year

In addition to flooding and active volcanoes, the Philippines is highly susceptible to natural disasters. It is located along the Pacific Ring of Fire and in the path of typhoons. Coastal and low-lying areas are particularly prone. Additionally, the country’s many active volcanoes, such as Mayon and Taal, pose risks of eruptions.

Informal settlements are among the most vulnerable to natural disasters. However, nonprofits like Habitat for Humanity, Build Change and CARE Philippines are spearheading projects to replace informal settlements with typhoon-resistant housing units so that communities don’t have to spend months every year rebuilding their homes.

– Ava Johnson
Photo: Unsplash

How The Taal Volcano Eruption Affected Poverty In The Philippines 

Taal Volcano EruptionThe Taal Volcano eruption in January 2020 significantly impacted poverty in the Philippines, most notably in the Batangas province where the active volcano is. The eruption caused widespread damage to homes, livelihoods and infrastructure, with vulnerable communities taking the most hit.

Per the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), poverty in the Batangas region affects 10.2% of the population, which translates to 1.68 million Filipinos who cannot meet “basic food and non-food” needs. Poverty incidence among families stood at 7.2% of the population or 296 thousand families.

Agriculture and Tourism

In 2020, the Department of Agriculture revealed the damages to the agricultural sector reached approximately $54 million, affecting 15,790 hectares of farmland. The loss of money was attributed to the destruction of crops, farm infrastructure and displacement of livestock. Unfortunately, setbacks in the agricultural sector put vulnerable rural communities and workers in the Batanga province at risk.

The Taal Volcano is a popular tourist destination and the eruption in 2020 led to the closure of the area to tourists, resulting in a decline in tourism and tourism-related businesses. Tourism sites within a 14-kilometer zone suffered an estimated damage of $1.5 million and an estimated loss of $2.1 million. The Taal volcano eruption affected poverty and tourism in the area for many years to come.

Vulnerable Communities

Exposure to volcano smog (sulfur dioxide gas emissions) can cause symptoms such as irritated/swollen eyes and irritations to the throat. Those with pre-existing health conditions, the elderly, pregnant women and children were most susceptible to its effects. It affected 736,000 people in the Calabarzon region, Central Luzon region and the National Capital regions, and this led to an “evacuation of more than 135,000 residents due to infrastructure and disruption of essential resources and services such as water, food supplies and education.” The displacement and consumption of dangerous gasses have impacted families’ livelihoods and income as well as increasing respiratory problems and malnutrition among the most affected.

Foreign Aid

The Japanese Government donated 425 metric tonnes of rice to the National Food Authority (NFA) to assist those who the natural disaster affected. This is following Japan’s donation of 560 metric tons of rice in 2019 after the Philippines experienced Typhoon Jenny.

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) provided $100,000 in humanitarian support, providing soap, toothbrushes, sleeping mats and blankets for 7,600 displaced residents that were staying at evacuation centers in the Batangas province.

Following the 2020 volcanic eruption, the EU announced a donation of €750,000 to provide humanitarian aid to the Batangas province. With over 931,400 residents in the area the EU’s donation funded the Spanish Red Cross which delivered immediate support through emergency shelters, essential items, hygiene kits and access to clean water. This was alongside psychosocial support services and child protection activities.

Looking Ahead

In the face of the devastating Taal Volcano eruption, international aid and support from countries like Japan, the United States and the European Union have played a crucial role in providing relief to affected communities in the Batangas province. Donations of rice, humanitarian supplies and financial assistance have helped address immediate needs and support the recovery process. These acts of solidarity demonstrate the power of global collaboration in alleviating poverty and rebuilding lives in the aftermath of natural disasters.

– Joshua Rogers
Photo: Flickr

Poverty in Rural Eastern Asia 

Poverty in Rural Eastern Asia Around 75% of the rural Eastern Asian population struggles to afford food, with an estimated 320 million living on less than $2.15 a day. The employed population in the region largely works in the agriculture sector where three out of four people in rural communities are poor. Families cannot afford to relocate to well-paid urban jobs. As a result, they continue to live in a poverty cycle. Countries such as Vietnam and Cambodia have up to 90% of their rural population living in poverty. Factors such as hunger issues, natural disasters and health care impact poverty in rural Eastern Asia greatly.

Poverty in Rural Eastern Asia

  • Mongolia: Rural areas of Mongolia have a poverty rate of 30.8% according to the World Bank, with two out of every five children living in poverty. Education heavily impacts poverty in Mongolia, as only 10% of Mongolians are able to complete university-level education. A lack of education and skills affects the jobs people can send in applications for, and this impacts Mongolians as it’s harder for many of them to enter urban employment for better-paid jobs.
  • Philippines: Half of the 100 million people in the Philippines live in rural areas with the main source of income consisting of agricultural employment such as fishing and farming. Illiteracy, unemployment and poverty are more common in Indigenous people and people living in upland areas. With an overall poverty rate of 25%, a decrease in agricultural productivity and unprofitable farming businesses stand as leading causes due to limited access to technology and knowledge.
  • Thailand: Despite major efforts to reduce poverty in Thailand, its rural sector, including agricultural households, remains poor with a poverty rate of 79%. Impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic affected the rural economy much greater than the urban, with the World Bank reporting that 70% of rural households reported decreased income levels since March 2020. The average monthly income is 68% of urban households. With the highest income inequality rate in Eastern Asia and the Pacific as well as the impacts of droughts, Thailand’s agricultural sector has been impacted heavily by economic and environmental factors. These recent droughts have caused dried-up land/soil impacting the production and quality of farming in these areas.

Improving the Socioeconomic Impacts in Mongolia

Asian Development Bank (ADB) donated $73 million toward easing Mongolia’s socioeconomic impacts from COVID-19. It also provided a $30 million loan to improve livestock production in central Mongolia. These donations have been effective in strengthening food security and traceability for communities.

Agricultural Development Projects in the Philippines

Since 1978 the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) has donated $243.7 million to fund 15 agricultural development projects in the Philippines, directly benefiting 1,742,000 households and enabling poverty-ridden rural communities to improve their income and food security as well as education and health care. IFAD also supported technology operations to improve soil and water management through the use of micro-catchment techniques that will support local fishermen.

The Baan Mankong Program in Thailand

The Baan Mankong program was one of many that transformed Thailand’s poverty rates. The program focused on improving housing, communication between citizens and the government and improving drainage systems. With $191 million, it supported 320 cities/districts, many of whom reside in the city.

Looking Ahead 

Despite negative outlooks on rural poverty in Eastern Asia, its rapid economic progress has been notable, lifting millions out of poverty. Between 2008 to 2018, GDP per capita grew at a rate of 6.7% each year, beating the global rate of 1.5%.

Organizations like ADB have contributed massively throughout COVID-19 and afterward to continue to improve rural communities through better health care, sustainable equipment, improved technology and food security. East Asia has contributed to the global reduction of extreme poverty with countries such as China, Thailand and Malaysia securing poverty rates below 1%. However, with many people still not economically stable in Eastern Asian countries, there appears to be room for more progress.

– Joshua Rogers

Photo: Flickr