The Philippines has been a third world country for quite some time now. Though it was once among the wealthiest in Asia, various factors have contributed to its downfall. The country’s economy has been on a rollercoaster ride since its independence from America in 1946, and while there have been some highs, the lows have been more frequent and severe.
Many Filipinos still reminisce about the country’s golden era in the 1950s, where industry and agriculture boomed, and its economy was in tip-top shape. However, mismanagement and corruption in today’s governments have left the country struggling to keep up with its neighbors. It is no surprise that its citizens are leaving in droves to seek better opportunities abroad. Despite the challenges, there is still hope for the Philippines to overcome its economic difficulties and become a thriving nation once again.
Factors that contributed to the Third World status of the Philippines
When we talk about the “Third World,” we’re referring to countries that are generally underdeveloped or developing. The Philippines is among these countries, but when did it become a Third World nation? What caused it to fall behind from other countries?
- Colonialism: The Philippines have a long history of colonization from various countries such as Spain, the United States, and Japan. These colonizers utilized the country’s resources and manpower for their own benefit, without providing substantial benefits for the Filipinos.
- Corruption: Corruption has been a significant problem in the Philippines. It’s believed that corruption started during the Spanish colonial period and continued throughout the years, making it difficult to eradicate. Corruption has affected the country’s economy, politics, and even the judicial system. It has resulted in public distrust of the government, negatively affecting the country’s progress.
- Poor governance: The government’s ability to implement policies and promote the welfare of its people is crucial in achieving progress. However, several Philippine administrations have been criticized for their ineffective governance, with issues such as poverty, unemployment, and poor education being persistent problems.
The above factors are just a few examples of the reasons behind the Philippines’ “Third World” status. Knowing the roots of a problem is essential to find solutions to improve the situation. Thus, by acknowledging these factors, we can take a step towards addressing the country’s problems and aiming for progress.
Economic struggles of the Philippines in the 20th century
When discussing the economic struggles of the Philippines in the 20th century, there are several important factors that must be considered. Among these are the country’s colonial history, political instability, and lack of infrastructure.
- The colonial legacy – The Philippines was under colonial rule for several centuries, which resulted in a heavily distorted economy. During Spanish colonialism, the economy was focused on mining and agriculture, while American colonialism encouraged the production of export crops. This left the country vulnerable to market fluctuations and ill-equipped to compete in a globalized economy.
- Political instability – The Philippines has a history of political instability, which has had a negative impact on the economy. Frequent changes in governments and policies have made it difficult for businesses to plan for the long-term, discouraging foreign investment and stifling economic growth.
- Lack of infrastructure – Another challenge is the lack of infrastructure in the country. Roads and bridges are often poorly maintained, making transportation difficult and expensive. This has had an impact on the export of goods, as well as the development of domestic industries.
In addition to these overarching challenges, the Philippines faced several economic crises in the 20th century. These included the oil shock of the 1970s, which led to a sharp increase in the price of oil, and the Asian Financial Crisis of 1997, which caused a sharp decline in the value of the Philippine peso.
Despite these difficulties, the Philippines has made progress in recent years. The country has seen consistent economic growth, and the government has implemented policies to address some of the challenges discussed above. However, there is still much work to be done to ensure a stable and prosperous economy for all Filipinos.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1946 | Philippines gains independence from the United States |
| 1970s | Oil shock leads to a sharp increase in oil prices |
| 1980s | Philippines experiences a debt crisis |
| 1997 | Asian Financial Crisis leads to a sharp decline in the value of the peso |
| 2006 | The Philippines is removed from the UN’s list of least developed countries |
It is clear that the economic struggles of the Philippines in the 20th century were numerous and complex. However, by understanding the factors that contributed to these struggles, we can work towards creating a more prosperous and stable economy for the future.
Changes in the political climate of the Philippines prior to becoming a Third World country
Before the Philippines became a Third World country, there were significant changes in the country’s political climate. These changes include:
- The rise of Ferdinand Marcos: Marcos became the president of the Philippines in 1965. At first, he was seen as a reformer who would bring progress and prosperity to the country. However, his regime quickly became authoritarian and repressive. He declared martial law in 1972 and stayed in power for 21 years.
- The worsening of corruption: During the Marcos regime, corruption became rampant in the Philippines. Government officials and businessmen colluded to enrich themselves, while the majority of Filipinos were left in poverty. This corruption contributed to the country’s economic decline and hindered development.
- The polarization of Philippine society: Under Marcos, the country became deeply divided. There were those who supported the regime and benefited from it, while there were those who opposed it and suffered from repression and human rights violations. This polarization continues to affect Philippine society to this day.
These changes in the political climate of the Philippines paved the way for the country to become a Third World nation. The Marcos regime’s corruption and repression hindered the country’s economic development and put the majority of Filipinos in poverty. The polarization of Philippine society also made it difficult for the country to unite and work towards progress.
The impact of colonialism on the Philippines’ economic development
Spain ruled the Philippines from 1565 to 1898, followed by the United States, which ruled from 1898 to 1946. Both colonial powers had a significant impact on the country’s economy.
- Under Spain’s rule, the Philippines was limited to trading only with Spain, and the trade was heavily regulated. This resulted in limited economic growth and development.
- The Spanish also imposed high taxes on the population, which led to poverty, rebellion, and uprisings.
- The United States implemented a policy of export-oriented agriculture, which focused on exporting Philippine agricultural products to the United States. The country saw some economic growth during this period, but it mainly benefited the American economy, not the Philippines.
Despite the American influence, the Philippines remained a third world country due to various factors:
First, the American government focused on urban development, and the rural areas were neglected, which led to limited economic opportunities in the countryside.
Second, the American education system emphasized white-collar jobs, which led to an oversupply of college graduates in the market. There were not enough employment opportunities that matched their skills, leading to a brain drain and lack of income-generating activities.
Third, the country’s dependence on foreign investment heavily impacted its economic development. The Philippines was seen as a source of cheap labor and raw materials for foreign companies, which negatively impacted the local economy and kept the country in poverty.
| Effects of Colonialism | Spain | United States |
|---|---|---|
| Restrictive trade policies | Yes | No, but focused on exporting agricultural products to the US |
| High taxes | Yes | No |
| Urban development | Neglected | Emphasized |
| Education system | N/A | Emphasized white-collar jobs |
| Foreign investment | N/A | Dependent on foreign companies |
In conclusion, colonialism has had a significant impact on the Philippines’ economic development. From limited economic growth under Spanish rule to the oversupply of college graduates during American influence, the country struggled to create a sustainable economy that would uplift the masses from poverty. The effects of colonialism are still present to this day and rebuilding a post-colonial economy is a great challenge for the government and the private sector alike.
Social issues in the Philippines during its Third World era
During its Third World era, the Philippines has experienced various social issues that hindered the country’s progress and development. These issues are a result of different factors such as poverty, corruption, and lack of education and healthcare.
- Poverty: Poverty is one of the biggest social issues that the Philippines faces. According to the World Bank, more than 25% of the population lives below the poverty line. Poverty leads to problems such as hunger, lack of access to healthcare and education, and crime.
- Corruption: Corruption is a widespread problem in the Philippines. It affects various aspects of society such as the government, businesses, and even the police force. Corruption leads to a lack of trust in the government and a loss of public funds, impairing the country’s economy further.
- Lack of education: Education is essential to a country’s progress and development. However, the Philippines has a high dropout rate, and many children do not have access or cannot afford education. Lack of education can lead to a lack of job opportunities, creating further poverty.
The following social issues that the Philippines had faced were coupled with ineffective policies, inadequate resources and lack of governance, which created widespread poverty, wealth inequality, increased crime rates, and poor social services among millions of Filipinos.
The following are two additional social problems that the Philippines faced during its Third World era:
- Healthcare: The Philippine’s healthcare system is inadequate, resulting in low life expectancy rates, illnesses, and rampant malnutrition among Filipinos. Medical attention is expensive and difficult to access, so many Filipinos cannot afford to seek the adequate healthcare that they need.
- Criminality: Crime rates had also seen an increase in the Third World Philippines. The country’s lack of law enforcement and the prevalence of poverty led many to commit crimes, thinking it their only option to provide for their families.
| Issue | Root Cause |
|---|---|
| Poverty | Political instability and failed economic policies |
| Corruption | Lack of accountability, inadequate governance |
| Lack of education and healthcare | Lack of adequate resources and low government funding |
| Criminality | Poverty and lack of opportunities, inadequate law enforcement |
These social issues have had a significant impact on the Philippine’s progress and development as a country in its Third World era. Thus, it is essential to recognize and address these issues to make significant improvements in the economy and the country’s overall well-being.
The Philippines’ Relationship with Other Southeast Asian Countries During Its Third World Status
During the Philippines’ Third World status, its relationships with other Southeast Asian countries were mostly defined by economic and political cooperation. The country was one of the founding members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 1967, along with Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand. The establishment of the ASEAN was aimed at promoting economic growth, social progress, and regional stability among its member countries.
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Economic Cooperation
The ASEAN facilitated the growth of trade and investment among its member countries, including the Philippines. The organization also promoted the establishment of regional economic agreements, such as the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) which aimed to increase the flow of goods and services among member countries while also reducing tariffs and barriers to trade. The Philippines’ economic relationships with its ASEAN neighbors helped boost the so-called “Asian Tiger” economies during the 1970s and 1980s.
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Political Cooperation
The ASEAN also played a vital role in promoting regional stability and security. During the Third World status of the Philippines, the organization facilitated negotiations and consultations among its members, including the resolution of conflicts in the region. One of the notable examples of this was the ASEAN’s efforts in mediating conflicts in Cambodia and Vietnam, which led to the signing of the Paris Peace Accords in 1991.
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Cultural Cooperation
The ASEAN also promoted cultural exchange and cooperation among its members. The organization sponsored events and programs that showcased the diverse cultural heritage of Southeast Asia, including the Philippines. This cultural exchange helped foster understanding and appreciation among the peoples of Southeast Asia, further promoting regional unity.
The Philippines’ Role in Contemporary Southeast Asia
Today, the Philippines remains an active member of the ASEAN, promoting economic cooperation and regional stability through its various initiatives and programs. The country also seeks to further strengthen its relationship with other Southeast Asian countries, particularly in the areas of trade and investment. With its increasing economic growth and strong political ties with its ASEAN neighbors, the Philippines is poised to play a more significant role in contemporary Southeast Asia.
A Brief Overview of ASEAN’s Member Countries and Their Economies
| Member Country | Economy (GDP in USD) | Population |
|---|---|---|
| Brunei | 11.5 billion | 459,500 |
| Cambodia | 24.6 billion | 16.8 million |
| Indonesia | 1.10 trillion | 273.5 million |
| Laos | 19.3 billion | 7.3 million |
| Malaysia | 364.7 billion | 32.7 million |
| Myanmar (Burma) | 76.1 billion | 54 million |
| Philippines | 362.8 billion | 108.1 million |
| Singapore | 337.5 billion | 5.8 million |
| Thailand | 522.7 billion | 69.6 million |
| Vietnam | 261.9 billion | 97.3 million |
The ASEAN’s member countries have economies that are diverse in terms of size and industry. Indonesia and the Philippines are two of the ASEAN’s largest economies and are both members of the G20. Singapore, on the other hand, has the highest GDP per capita of all the ASEAN’s member countries. These economies have undergone rapid growth in recent years, thanks to regional cooperation and foreign investment.
Efforts made by the Philippine government to improve its Third World status
For years, the Philippines has struggled with the challenges of being a Third World country. However, the government has been making efforts to improve the country’s economic and social status. These efforts have been focused on different aspects of the Philippine society, including education, health, and employment opportunities.
- Educational reforms: The Philippine government has made several changes to improve the country’s educational system. One of the significant reforms was the K-12 program, which added an additional two years to the country’s basic education system. This program aimed to produce the well-rounded graduates who were better prepared for the workforce.
- Healthcare initiatives: The Philippine government has implemented various programs to improve the country’s healthcare status. The Universal Health Care Law is one of the notable initiatives aimed to provide equitable and accessible healthcare to all Filipinos.
- Infrastructure development: The government has invested heavily in the country’s infrastructure through projects such as the Build, Build, Build program. The program aims to build roads, bridges, airports, and seaports in various parts of the country. These investments are intended to improve the country’s transportation system and, in turn, have a positive impact on the economy.
Besides these efforts, the Philippine government has also launched initiatives that aim to attract foreign investments into the country. One of the notable initiatives is the “Invest Philippines” program, which is designed to promote the country as an attractive destination for foreign investors. The program aims to provide foreign investors with incentives such as tax holidays, simplified business processes, and access to support services.
The government has also addressed the unemployment issue by partnering with the private sector to create employment opportunities for Filipinos. The JobStart Philippines program is one of these initiatives that aim to provide skills training and employment opportunities for young Filipinos. Through this program, the government hopes to reduce the country’s high unemployment and poverty rates.
| Efforts | Description |
|---|---|
| K-12 Program | The additional two years to the country’s basic education system aimed to produce the well-rounded graduates who were better prepared for the workforce. |
| Universal Health Care Law | The initiative aimed to provide equitable and accessible healthcare to all Filipinos. |
| Build, Build, Build Program | The program aims to build roads, bridges, airports, and seaports in various parts of the country to improve the country’s transportation system and, in turn, have a positive impact on the economy. |
| Invest Philippines | The program is designed to promote the country as an attractive destination for foreign investors, providing them with incentives such as tax holidays, simplified business processes, and access to support services. |
| JobStart Philippines Program | The initiative aimed to provide skills training and employment opportunities for young Filipinos to reduce the country’s high unemployment and poverty rate. |
The government’s efforts to improve the country’s status as a Third World country are commendable. With a continued focus on education, healthcare, and infrastructure development, the Philippines can move closer to becoming a developed country and provide a better future for its citizens.
FAQs About When Did the Philippines Became a Third World Country
Q: When did the Philippines become a third world country?
A: The Philippines became a third world country during the 1960s when the Cold War was at its peak and the world was divided into three political spheres.
Q: What does third world country mean?
A: Third world countries are those that are struggling economically and socially, with high levels of poverty, low levels of development, and a lack of political power.
Q: What were the factors that contributed to the Philippines becoming a third world country?
A: The factors that contributed to the Philippines becoming a third world country include political instability, corruption, economic mismanagement, unequal distribution of wealth, and insufficient infrastructure.
Q: Is the Philippines still considered a third world country today?
A: No, the term “third world” is outdated and no longer used. However, the Philippines is still considered a developing country.
Q: What has the Philippines done to address its economic and social challenges?
A: The Philippines has implemented various economic, social, and political reforms aimed at improving infrastructure, reducing corruption, creating jobs, and strengthening democratic institutions.
Q: How has the Philippines’ status as a developing country affected its relationship with other nations?
A: The Philippines has received aid and support from other countries to help address its economic and social challenges. It has also established partnerships and collaborations with other nations to promote trade and investment.
Q: What is the outlook for the Philippines’ development in the future?
A: The outlook for the Philippines’ development is positive, as it continues to implement reforms and take steps towards achieving sustainable and inclusive growth.
Closing Thoughts
Thank you for taking the time to read about when the Philippines became a third world country. While the country faced significant challenges in the past, it has made progress in addressing its economic and social issues. With ongoing efforts towards reform and development, the future looks bright for the Philippines. We hope you visit again for more informative articles about the Philippines and other topics.