Poverty Worsening in the Philippines this 2011

We are on the second month of the year 2011 and we are already facing continuous problem in our country.  Last January 14, 2011, taxi fare hikes begin with the flagdown rate from P35 to P40. After 3 weeks, Motorist and jeepney owners and drivers complain of increasing fare was approved. The regular fare of 7.00 becomes 8.00 .Another increase in fare will soon be implemented that will affect most Filipinos especially the LRT/MRT passenger.

MRT /LRT Fare Increases

This morning when I walking on my way to the school, when I saw a group of people in front of Guadalupe MRT station, they’re holding a banner and preparing for protest rally against the fare hike. They are convincing the people especially all MRT passengers to disagree on this issue.

Then I remember the news in TV PATROL last night the LRTA-DOTC recommended the increase in LRT/MRT cost fare this coming March 2011. From the current fare of 10.00 to 15.00 will increase from ranges 35.00 to 60.00. The passengers would spend a total of 60.00-70.00 for a round trip fare.

The LRT Board explains some reasons why  they need to increase the MRT/LRT fare. One of their point is actual cost to run and maintain  the MRT/LRT system.  They explain that the government covers the 50%  the total operating and maintenance cost of the train system. Another r reason also is the current high electricity rates .

This is actually their reasons for opposing a rally. The people will spend a big share of their income in fare cost instead of their  basic daily consumption such as food. The government should increase fare minimum wage for workers in Metro Manila so they can afford paying increasingly fare cost. Mostly MRT/LRT passengers are students and minimum workers earning 10,000.00 a month. If they take the trains to work every day for  safe and  efficient public transportation nothing of their income will left for their family.

FOOD PRICE INCREASE

Food prices are seen to unstable this year. Filipino people basic needs like noodles, canned good, sugar, rice and oil will also increase  because of the world market price increases. The weather  in the Philippines also affect the production  and in return affect the food prices. 

We all know that instant noodles are usually eaten by the poor people with  rice and daing (dried fish) because of its affordability. For only 7.00  you can substitute this for a cup of rice to help your empty stomach. High food price is one of the major concern of some Poor Pilipino people  which spend large share of their income on food