Modern challenges like the continuous rise in fuel and commodity prices, unemployment, and severe corruption among some politicians—these are the real hardships Filipinos face today, made even more poignant as the nation enters the Lenten season, a time for reflection, sacrifice, and hope for renewal.
As families prepare for Holy Week observances—planning trips to visit ancestral graves, attending religious services, or putting together modest feasts—they are forced to choose between their faith traditions and meeting basic needs.
According to the Department of Energy, diesel could climb to Php 134.30 per liter and gasoline to Php 112.40 per liter in some areas this week.
Just three months back, in January 2026, the price of diesel sat at about Php 57.60 per liter, while gasoline was around Php 54.90 per liter.
The cost has since more than doubled, a swift and striking increase.
For a lot of people, the expense of getting to their provincial homes for the Lenten season has become too much to bear, resulting in families being apart when they would normally be together.
The Philippines, reliant on imports and with a fuel market that operates without government oversight, feels the full force of global economic changes.
Prices for even the most basic Lenten goods – fish, vegetables, and palm fronds for Palm Sunday – have climbed, complicating the ability of families to celebrate the season as they always have.
With the bulk of their income going toward groceries and healthcare, there's hardly anything left for Lenten observances, let alone candles for church.
As a result, many people are forced to abandon traditions that once provided comfort and a sense of belonging.
Filipinos face economic difficulties not only because of high prices, but also a lack of decent jobs.
Conversely, the nation's difficulties are exacerbated by the pervasive corruption of certain "crooked politicians."
These individuals misappropriate funds earmarked for initiatives designed to assist the impoverished, such as the construction of educational institutions, medical facilities, and the generation of employment opportunities, diverting these resources for their own personal benefit.
Instead of helping during this time of hardship, resources are being used to satisfy greed.
This situation undermines public trust and significantly hinders progress.
During this time of spiritual reflection, true faith requires leaders to act in the best interests of the people, rather than for their own benefit.
Election pledges alone are insufficient.
Concrete measures are imperative to address inflation, stimulate employment, and eradicate corruption.
The Filipino populace, characterized by its diligence and fortitude, is undeserving of such hardships, particularly during a period that emphasizes empathy and fairness.
True justice requires that every person has a fair chance to live a life of dignity.
As the nation observes Lent, this is the Filipino people’s plea: to end their hardships and build a country where hope is a lived reality for all.
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