Systemic problem

I would like to give props to Gideon Lasco for how he debunked the myth of the indolent Filipino, particularly his point that indolence among the poor is not the cause of their poverty, but rather the effect of the system that keeps them from escaping such conditions (“The myth of the lazy poor” 3/21/19).

Indeed, hard work doesn’t always equate to success. Success is a combination of determination and opportunities, which are not always given to anyone.

Perhaps some of the poor turned “lazy” because they did not get opportunities, plus the fact that their sweat and tears aren’t compensated with a just and decent wage.

MARCO DAVE R. VILLARUEL, [email protected]