Counting ?33

The month of October is significant for some workers in the private sector because the wage hike is finally in effect. However, it isn't something to be really excited about as it is only a ?33 increase. Yes, that's right. It is less than the value of a US dollar or even a kilo of rice. For some, they would say that it is better than nothing at all. However, a good reality check would show that it isn't really going to help.

For starters, the prices of the basic commodities continue to rise. The prices of the goods that we consume on a daily basis are not the same as before. Instead of us trying to bounce back strong from the downfall of our economy during the pandemic, we come back weaker. The ordinary Filipino is trying his best to fit everything under the minimum wage. Sometimes I make manual calculations in my head on what could be bought by the additional increase for a family of five. Maybe it can afford one extra can of sardines or tuna, or a couple more pieces of vegetables. I wish I could tell you it can sustain you for the whole day, as it is only good for one meal.

The price of gasoline also continues to rise. For a starting family with a motorcycle cycle or a basic car, the amount could not even afford a single liter for a day's ride. The best thing to do is to ride the public transportation, but we all know that it isn't as efficient. It is available, true but does not take you on time unless you wait for it super early. That also translates to lost time which could have been spent elsewhere, such as the family.

The amount could not even be enough for a decent meal for a family. The situation could be bearable if there are two people in the family working but not everyone is blessed with a job. The typical Filipino family only has one person in the workforce while the other stays to take care of the family. What doesn't change is how we continue to be innovative and resilient. Then again, we want accountability for the dire situation that we are in. We should not feel pushed to the wall because of our income while the rest continue to bask in riches.

How far can ?33 take you? Not so far, I bet. It can only move you a bit, maybe just enough to survive. On the contrary, do we also even stop and ask the business side if they can keep their operations with this slight increase? For big corporations, money might not be an issue. However, things might be difficult for those in the micro, small, and medium enterprise. We are all affected and we need more to continue to thrive. May this economic struggle be temporary so we can all enjoy the fruit of our labor at the end of the day.