EXPLAINER: Poverty Down, Jobs Steady, But Inflation Bites In Zamboanga Sibugay

1. Poverty incidence is down — but the bar is higher

• The numbers: Poverty incidence among families dropped to 17.8 percent in 2023, from 26 percent in 2021 and 27.1 percent in 2018.
• The catch: The poverty threshold rose to ₱26,557 per person per year, meaning families need more income just to cover basic needs.
• What it means: Fewer families are officially poor, but the cost of living is rising. Even those above the poverty line may still feel squeezed.

2. Jobs are available — but not always enough

• Employment rate: A strong 96.17 percent in 2025, higher than 2023’s 95.64 percent.
• Unemployment: Down to 3.83 percent, showing most jobseekers find work.
• Underemployment: Up to 18.2 percent, meaning many workers are stuck in part-time, seasonal, or low-paying jobs.
• What it means: People have jobs, but not all jobs provide decent wages or stability. A farmer, driver, or vendor may be “employed” but still struggling.

3. Inflation is rising — peso buys less

• Inflation rate: Inflation climbed to 3.5 percent in January 2026, from 3.2 percent in December 2025 and 3.0 percent a year earlier.
• Purchasing power: The peso’s value slipped to 0.76, meaning ₱100 now buys what ₱76 used to.
• What it means: Prices of rice, transport, and utilities are rising faster than wages. Households feel the pinch even if incomes haven’t changed.

4. The bigger picture

• Progress: Poverty reduction and strong employment show resilience.
• Challenge: Inflation threatens to undo these gains.
• For ordinary Sibugaynons: The question is not just about finding work, but whether wages can keep pace with the rising cost of living.

Bottom line: Zamboanga Sibugay is moving forward, but the everyday struggle continues. Families may be lifted above the poverty line, yet inflation ensures that survival remains a balancing act.