Give workers chance to grow as entrepreneurs - Bro. Eddie

The minimum wage must rise to a level that can be considered a decent “living wage.” Otherwise, the government must open up more opportunities for the working class to grow as entrepreneurs.

This was the call of Bangon Pilipinas senatorial candidate Bro. Eddie Villanueva on the eve of this year’s Labor Day.

Villanueva said the government must break the chain of granting only non-wage benefits on Labor Day and work to increase the minimum wage.

“The minimum wage in Metro Manila for example at P456 can no longer sustain the cost of living. This is can no longer feed a family of five. If you add other expenses like entertainment and medical bills, the minimum wage is woefully lacking,” Villanueva said.

In 2008, it was estimated that the daily cost of living was already around P900.

As proof, Villanueva noted that the poverty rate has remained virtually unchanged despite glowing economic reviews by foreign firms, a credit ratings upgrade and record highs by the local stock market.

“Nobody should be left behind in the country’s economic growth. What we need is inclusive growth that includes growth from those in the fringes,” Villanueva, an economist-turned-evangelist, said.

He added that the platform of Bangon Pilipinas is to develop “ekonomiya ng sagigilid” or economics for the fringes with focus on growth in the agricultural and manufacturing sectors through industrial development.

Villanueva said growth in these sectors can form the foundation of a real and solid economic growth, rather than dependence on just a few factors like remittances from overseas Filipino workers and the business process outsourcing industry.

“There is still hope for a more equitable growth if we focus our agenda to giving more opportunities for those in the margins to better their lives. For example, grant them loans without collaterals so they can set up small businesses. This will be our legislative agenda in the Senate,” Villanueva said.

He added: “In the Senate, we will work for a government that provides opportunities for all, including the minimum wage earners. We will work for laws that will redistribute power and resources so everybody, including those living in the margins, will truly benefit from the country’s newfound economic strength. We will make sure the sagigilid will be part of the country’s economic growth.”