In today’s society where communities are suffering and the value of piso is gradually declining, how can one remain apolitical in this economy? Perhaps, some might say they choose silence to remain neutral and at peace… but choosing silence doesn’t make you “neutral”, because everything is politics. And you shouldn’t wait until it gets you too.
As the famous line says, “everything is politics”, it truly is. It is, in terms of being prioritized last in a hospital despite your condition being extremely critical. And when that happens, it is like your fate’s already predictable without the need of medical attention. Because you will not matter if you aren’t privileged enough to pay them such an amount of money.
It is, in terms of transportation. Just look at the nation’s current situation today: the Philippines was the first country to ever announce a national energy emergency. Prices of oil are increasing, hitting more than a hundred peso. The resources our country has left for energy and oil can only cater to us for less than a month.
Due to the escalating tension in the Middle East, drivers—mainly jeepney drivers—are affected. Their incomes everyday aren’t even enough to sustain the needs of their families, especially that summer break hits in school calendars; and only students are their main source of income. And yet, they are still expected to pay more than a hundred for oil.
If earnings decrease—no profits to use in order to buy jeep’s gas—operation of jeepneys are stopped. It’s a cycle currently. And will repeat if this issue persists.
Moreover, the exchange rate for the US Dollar today is ₱60.93. The value of peso is declining, and inflation is yet to be seen again. Prices of food, basic needs, and transportation will fully affect typical Filipinos. Those Filipinos who play fairly in life yet somehow still find themselves running to catch a jeepney, counting every bit of the coin to purchase their desired needs, and it is stressful due to the increasing amount of monthly bills.
You don’t have to experience it to become aware too. Being aware and speaking up does not mean you’re engaging in chaos—it’s a call for a reform, an action to be done. One voice can indeed make a difference in order to avoid it happening again in the next generations.
So, the next time you choose “peace” and “neutrality”, think about those who are less privileged than you. Think about your fellow Filipinos who struggle to get through everyday just to survive. Those farmers whose crops aren’t sold at the price they deserve. Or those public transportation drivers who protest to stop the Middle East war.
You’re given a voice to use. Be wise and choose to have a stand. Because staying apolitical is a choice built out of privilege.
