PRIVILEGE IN A TIME OF PANDEMIC(COVID19)

Covid-19 has impacted millions of Filipino's who have been out of work for weeks, thus
creating a financial burden. Without a job and the certainty of knowing when one will
return to work, paying rent and utilities has been a problem for many. With
unemployment on the rise, relying on unemployment benefits has become a necessity
for millions of people. According to the (PHILIPPINE DAILY INQUIRER/ASIA NEWS
NETWORK), unemployment rose to 10.4% in April - the highest in 15 years.

Those who are not worried about the financial aspect or the thought never crossed their
minds have privilege. Merriam Webster defines privilege as “a right or immunity granted
as a peculiar benefit, advantage, or favor.” Privilege can have a negative connotation.
What you choose to do with your privilege is what matters. Talking about privilege can
bring discomfort, but the discomfort it brings can also carry the benefit of drawing
awareness to one’s privilege, which can lead the person to take steps to help others.

I am a first-generation K12 student who recently enrolled to a first Senior High School.
When schools began to close, and students had to leave their on-campus housing,
many lost their jobs.I was able to stay on our house because I live in Cavite. I am
fortunate to still have a job, although the hours are minimal. My parents help pay for
expenses, including housing, and food. I do not have to worry about paying rent or how
to pay for food because my parents are financially stable to help me. However, there are
millions of Senior Highschool students who are not financially stable or do not have the
support system I have. Here, I have the privilege and, thus, I am the one who can offer
help to others. I may not have millions in funding, but volunteering for centers who need
help is where I am able to help. Those who live in Philippines can volunteer through
Philippines For All or at food banks, shelter facilities, making calls to seniors, etc.

I was not aware of my privilege during these times until I started reading more articles
about how millions of people cannot afford to pay their rent, and landlords are starting to
send notices of violations. Rather than feel guilty and be passive about it, I chose to put
my privilege into a sense of purpose: Donating to nonprofits helping those affected by
COVID-19, continuing to support local businesses, and supporting businesses who are
donating profits to those affected by COVID-19.