Social stratification and inequality is a cycle; it just changes based from your idea, beliefs, status, experiences. It does not choose whatever class you belong. Poor people can feel it by not having equal opportunity when it comes to health, safety, education, leisure, and basic needs. The middle class and the higher may feel it by not having understood clearly because of the label the society has given them.

            According to the ASEAN Trade Union Council, the Philippines has the highest rate of economic and social inequality in Southeast Asia. This problem is not limited to personal wealth. Land distribution, educational and vocational opportunities and basic welfare programs are also affected by the growing disparity between the Philippines’ richest and poorest citizens.

            Basically, those in the lower class of the society can easily feel the social stratification and inequality. As in many other parts of the world, it is often the indigenous population that suffers the most. In the Philippines, the approximately 1.7 million people belonging to the nation’s 100 ethnic groups remain the most disadvantaged, with discrimination and a lack of opportunities creating serious barriers. For many years, the poorest and indigenous groups in our country have been the victim of social stratification and equality. Thus, it’s big news whenever there are successful individuals from their group, like the first aeta to graduate in University of the Philippines and the first engineer from the group of aetas from Iram resettlement in New Cabalan, Olongapo City. When they are recognized, is it really an honor or a discrimination?

By: Corskie M. San Jose | Teacher III | ALS