By Farah G. Decano

 

IT is a common observation that those who hold the reins of government often grant special privileges to the wealthy—whether in exchange for private favors or to avoid conflict with the influential. Conversely, policymakers provide subsidies and social safety nets to the marginalized, often securing political loyalty in the process.

With exclusive benefits flowing to both the top and the bottom, a vital question arises: What does the middle class receive as a pampalubag-loob (consolation) from the state?

As the primary engine of the nation’s tax revenue, where is our token gesture of support?

While the underprivileged feel the sharpest sting of inflation fueled by global conflict and domestic corruption, they are at least the recipients of government dole-outs and are “remembered” during election cycles. The affluent, meanwhile, maintain their influence year-round by simply calling upon their “retained” officials.

But the middle class? We are the “middle children” of society—consistently relied upon, yet perpetually ignored.

There are, thankfully, small exceptions. Cities like Pasig and Quezon City have set a precedent by providing holiday packages to all residents, regardless of socio-economic status.

Personally, the last time I felt the state truly served the middle class was during the COVID-19 vaccination rollout. For a brief moment, it felt as though our taxes were finally working for us. Under the leadership of Dr. Ophelia Rivera, the City Health Office organized a system that was efficient, professional, and clean. We were provided with expensive vaccines at no cost, and for once, the process felt dignified.

Of course, we must be realistic: resources, integrity, and leadership competence vary wildly across local governments. But this is a plea for visibility. To the powers that be: please remember that the middle class exists for more than just taxation.

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This lack of support is most visible in how we care for our aging loved ones. A common mistake among middle- and lower-income families is the “rotation” of seniors among siblings simply to “equalize the burden.”

However, stability is paramount for seniors. It is far better for a patriarch or matriarch to remain in one residence with one or two dedicated family members acting as primary providers. Those who do not have a direct hand in daily care should feel a moral obligation to relieve the lead sibling regularly or provide financial subsidies. While equal contributions are the standard, a division based on each sibling’s financial capacity is often more equitable and sustainable.

High-income households do not face this dilemma; they can afford round-the-clock professional caregivers or luxury assisted living facilities.

For the rest of us acting as the main support system, the emotional toll is high. Because cheerful energy helps revitalize the waning spirits of our elders, we need to keep the primary caregivers in the family less burdened.  We must prevent them from hurling hurtful words towards their elderlies.

It is heartbreaking that some aged individuals suffer neglect or abuse simply because they are perceived as a “burden” by their own flesh and blood.

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Perhaps the government can establish public elderly daycare centers in clustered barangays? This would allow low- and middle-income earners to leave their aging seniors in a safe environment while they are at work.

Crucially, these centers must be clean and comfortable—modeled after the “Dr. Ophelia Rivera style” of public service.  Dugyot-free.  Hindi dapat gawing dugyut ang lugar at  pangit ang serbisyo porke’t libre ito. We must make these spaces acceptable to all classes.

This is just one way the middle class—the backbone of national income—can finally feel cared for.

A clean, dignified elderly daycare center would be more than just a service; it would be a sign of recognition of the people who keep the country running – the middle class.