PERCEIVED POVERTY VERSUS ACTUAL HUNGER

PERCEIVED POVERTY VERSUS ACTUAL HUNGER Poverty and hunger are two of the most pressing issues facing the Philippines, yet they are often misunderstood and misrepresented in discussions. While perceived poverty and actual hunger are related, they are not the same. Understanding their nuances is key to crafting effective policies and solutions. Perception vs. Reality Perceived poverty is not an objective measure. It reflects how individuals or households feel about their economic status. While these perceptions may highlight societal discontent, they are subjective and do not necessarily align with reality. For example, some families may perceive themselves as poor simply because they cannot maintain the lifestyle of others in their community, even if they earn enough to meet their basic needs. In contrast, actual poverty is quantified based on measurable criteria, such as whether a household’s income falls below the poverty line. In the Philippines, the poverty rate as of 2023 stands at 15.5%, meaning over 17 million Filipinos live in poverty. Actual hunger, however, is even more immediate and visceral. As of early 2024, 14.2% of Filipino families—equivalent to nearly 4 million households—reported experiencing involuntary hunger. This data reflects a crisis that extends beyond perception; it’s a reality that demands urgent attention. The Inflation-Poverty Connection One complicating factor is inflation. While poverty is determined by income relative to a set threshold, inflation erodes purchasing power, making it harder for households to meet their basic needs. In theory, those above the poverty line should not be considered poor, but in practice, many families in this category struggle to afford food, housing, and other essentials as prices rise. The inflation rate in December 2024 was 2.9%, reflecting a gradual increase in prices. This seemingly modest figure can have significant consequences for households already teetering on the edge of financial stability. How does the government adjust the imaginary basket of goods to reflect these price increases? Are the weights assigned to items in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) updated regularly enough to provide an accurate picture of the economic strain on families? Aid and Its Limitations Government aid programs, or ayuda, are designed for short-term poverty alleviation rather than long-term poverty reduction. But how does the government decide who qualifies for this assistance? Is aid limited to those below the poverty line, or does it extend to households struggling due to inflation and stagnant wages? Local government units (LGUs) often issue certificates of indigency without stringent verification, raising questions about the accuracy of targeting. A robust and up-to-date database of indigents could help ensure that aid reaches those who need it most. Hunger, Poverty, and Unemployment While the hunger rate and the poverty are closely linked, they are not identical. Hunger can affect those above the poverty line, particularly when inflation outpaces income growth. This underscores the need to correlate poverty data with unemployment rates, which stood at 3.2% in November 2024. A stronger labor market can help reduce poverty, but only if wages are sufficient to keep up with the cost of living. Localized Solutions The measurement of hunger, poverty, and unemployment should be localized at the LGU level to capture the specific needs and challenges of different communities. Similarly, job creation strategies should focus on local economies, leveraging regional strengths and opportunities. Bridging the Gap Understanding the interplay between perceived poverty and actual hunger is crucial for addressing these issues effectively. Perceived poverty highlights the psychological and social aspects of economic hardship, while actual hunger and poverty reflect tangible deficiencies that must be remedied. Policies should aim to: 1. Regularly update poverty thresholds and the basket of goods to reflect real-world conditions. 2. Expand government aid to include households affected by inflation, not just those below the poverty line. 3. Strengthen coordination between LGUs and the national government for targeted assistance. 4. Invest in job creation and wage growth to ensure economic stability for all Filipinos. The fight against poverty and hunger requires a clear-eyed understanding of the data, the courage to address root causes, and the compassion to assist those in need. These challenges may seem overwhelming, but with the right approach, they are not insurmountable. Ramon Ike V. Seneres, www.facebook.com/ike.seneres iseneres@yahoo.com, 09088877282, senseneres.blogspot.com 02-09-2025