The Poor in the Philippines

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to describe the face of poverty in the Philippines. Specifically, through a review of literature, it enumerates the features of destitution in the Philippines, identifies the problems that create, maintain and worsen poverty, and illustrates the coping processes of Filipinos who have made it out of poverty. Empirical studies discussed perceptions of the poor, homelessness and subhuman living conditions, marginalisation from economic growth, mental and physical health concerns due to socio-economic deprivation and deficiencies in health care, family stressors, overseas working, increased violence and social injustices to children, increasing numbers of street children, and the cultural values in the Philippines (e.g., pagpupunyagi: perseverance and resourcefulness, pakikipagkapwa: reliance on others). Based on the study by Tuason (2008), the model of coping processes of those who were born poor and became rich is illustrated. The model includes the domains such as: the experience of deprivation; negative emotions of self-pity, insecurity, envy and anger; intolerance for continued poverty; praying to God for change; dreams for self and resourcefulness; education and drive; gratitude; helping those in need; and lucky chance events. For those born poor, the societal structures in the Philippines keep most everyone from being economically successful.