As a Filipino growing up in a rural province in the Philippines, I have witnessed firsthand the

effects of poverty on individuals and communities. Poverty is a complex issue that affects
various aspects of life, from access to basic needs like food and shelter, to opportunities for
education and employment. In this article, I will explore poverty in the Philippines through the
lenses of the social sciences.From a psychological perspective, poverty can have profound
impacts on mental health. Living in poverty can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, and depression.
The uncertainty of not knowing where the next meal will come from or how to pay for basic
needs can create a constant sense of insecurity and hopelessness.Sociologically, poverty can
perpetuate cycles of inequality and exclusion. Children growing up in poverty are more likely to
experience social exclusion and marginalization, which can lead to reduced opportunities for
education and employment. This can create a vicious cycle of poverty, as individuals are unable
to escape their circumstances.Anthropologically, poverty can be seen as a product of social
structures and systems. The colonial history of the Philippines, as well as the country's
economic policies, have contributed to the persistence of poverty in the country. The
concentration of wealth in the hands of a few elites and the lack of social safety nets have
created a system that perpetuates inequality and poverty.Geographically, poverty in the
Philippines is not evenly distributed. Rural areas and indigenous communities are particularly
vulnerable to poverty due to limited access to resources and infrastructure. This can exacerbate
the effects of poverty, as individuals are isolated and unable to access opportunities for
employment and education.Historically, poverty in the Philippines has been a persistent issue.
Despite economic growth in recent years, poverty rates remain high, with around 17% of the
population living below the poverty line. The colonial legacy of the Philippines, as well as the
country's economic policies, have contributed to the persistence of poverty.From a political
science perspective, poverty is a political issue that requires policy solutions. Effective poverty
alleviation requires political will and systemic change. Policies that address the root causes of
poverty, such as inequality and limited access to resources, are crucial for creating a more
equitable society.Economically, poverty has significant costs for individuals and society.
Individuals living in poverty may have limited access to education and healthcare, which can
lead to long-term negative impacts on their health and earning potential. The costs of poverty
also extend to society, through lost economic productivity and increased healthcare and social
welfare costs.