A retired Filipino journalist has opened up about the harsh financial reality facing many pensioners, revealing that the monthly stipend from the Social Security System (SSS) is insufficient, leading to what he calls a "poverty of the pocket." Having retired in 2019, he describes a constant struggle to make ends meet, a sentiment echoed by a college friend who retired earlier.
The Daily Grind on a Meager Pension
The retiree's financial strain is particularly acute during the holiday season, including the approaching New Year's Eve. Unlike his working years, he now must meticulously budget every peso, even for basic expenses like transportation fares and occasional meals outside the home. His friend's situation is similarly dire, with his family's monthly spending only sustained by the additional Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) pension of his wife, a retired teacher. The GSIS has historically worked to increase benefits for retired educators.
His personal history of growing up poor and living in the countryside has, however, equipped him with the resilience to live within his means. This frugality is now a necessary skill for survival.
Apprehensions for 2026: Governance and Conspiracy Theories
Looking ahead to New Year 2026, the retiree is hesitant to make predictions but expresses deep concern about the nation's direction. He is troubled by the persistent issue of government corruption, which he believes was evident in 2025 and is unlikely to disappear. This makes him apprehensive about governance in the coming year.
While he tries to avoid politics for his well-being, his background as a journalist pulls him back to comment on current issues. He points to the tragic death of former Department of Public Works and Highways undersecretary Ma. Catalina Cabral and the anomalous flood control projects as examples of the systemic problems. He finds the proliferation of baseless conspiracy theories, such as those suggesting Cabral faked her death, to be a disturbing sign of the times.
A Political Landscape Set to Continue
The retiree notes that the political environment in 2026 may not differ much from 2025, with President Bongbong Marcos and Vice President Sara Duterte remaining in office. The continued presence of their loyal supporters means their political influence will persist. Despite his criticisms and worries about the future, he concludes by extending a wish for a happy new year to all.
