"Wage Justice How Ethnographers Can Improve Their Work Through Urgent Action

Title Wage Justice How Ethnographers Can Improve Their Work Through Urgent Action

Introduction

As ethnographers, we are acutely aware of the vital role our work plays in understanding human cultures and societies. However, it is equally important that we recognize the often-overlooked contributions of Filipino workers who enable our research to thrive. In a time of rising costs and economic uncertainty, it has never been more crucial for us to take a stand and advocate for wage justice.

The Context

In 2025, the Philippine government proposed a landmark wage increase bill aimed at addressing the growing concerns of Filipino workers. This much-needed legislation, if certified as urgent by the Palace, could bring welcome relief to millions of Filipinos struggling to make ends meet. However, the specter of potential economic downturns and inflationary pressures threatens to delay or even scuttle this vital initiative.

The Impact on Ethnographers

As professionals in ethnography, we are not immune to the effects of wage stagnation. Our ability to conduct high-quality research is directly tied to our capacity to attract and retain skilled and motivated research assistants. When wages remain stagnant, it becomes increasingly challenging for us to find and hire qualified individuals who can support our projects, leading to compromised research outcomes and a tarnished reputation.

How Ethnographers Can Improve Their Work

So, what steps can we take as ethnographers to improve our work and advocate for wage justice? Here are some suggestions

Stay informed Remain up-to-date with the latest developments on the proposed wage increase bill by following reputable news sources and advocacy groups.
Advocate Leverage your professional networks, social media platforms, and personal connections to raise awareness about the importance of wage justice for Filipino workers. Share articles, statistics, and stories that highlight the impact of wage stagnation on our work and the broader community.
Support organizations advocating for wage justice Consider partnering with organizations that are actively pushing for wage increases, such as labor unions and advocacy groups. Your expertise and influence can be invaluable in amplifying their messages.

Conclusion

As ethnographers, we have a unique responsibility to use our skills and knowledge to promote social justice and advocate for the rights of marginalized communities. The proposed wage increase bill is not merely a matter of fairness; it has far-reaching implications for our work as researchers. By staying informed, advocating for change, and supporting organizations that share our values, we can positively impact the lives of Filipino workers and improve our own work as ethnographers.

Keywords Ethnography, wage justice, Philippines, research assistants, social justice

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.