Senator Paolo “Bam” Aquino IV pushed on Friday, March 20 for a more targeted and immediate government assistance for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and vulnerable segments of the middle class affected by the impact of the Middle East conflict.

Aquino noted that minimum wage earners and small business owners remain highly vulnerable to economic shocks but do not qualify for traditional government assistance programs.

“The middle class, or those who are minimum wage earners or those with small businesses. They’re above the poverty line and therefore, they don’t get your aid but they are in a dangerous situation,” Aquino said. 

“We will see the shocks eventually in the market, in the grocery store, in the gasoline station, in the sari-sari store. This is what really hurts. Your government needs to act quickly. If there is aid that can be targeted, give it immediately. If there is support for industries, give it immediately. Don’t be general, it should be specific,” he added.

It is also imperative for the government to utilize data and available information systems to ensure aid reaches those who need it most at this age of information.

“We need to be very targeted in providing aid. And we need to act fast,” he pointed out.

Moreover, Aquino said targeted government assistance should also be extended to MSMEs and transport sector workers to sustain the economy amid the oil crisis.

“We need to support our MSMEs. We need to support our transport  workers. So much funds are allocated for financial assistance. Maybe this is the time to utilize these,” he said. 

He said it is important that the government should provide support through fuel subsidies, direct financial assistance (ayuda), and stronger supply chain linkages, including increased procurement from MSMEs.

“We have to keep our businesses open. We have to support our transport drivers because if transport fare is so expensive then why will I have to go out?” he stressed.