Uncertainties

The New Year is often synonymous to new beginnings and new hopes, but as the Japanese economy continues to nosedive, Filipinos toiling in Japan should brace themselves for a windfall of economic uncertainties this year.

Pundits predict economic growth to be around zero, as exports rapidly decelerate. Private sector demand remains fragile, as more Japanese opt to deposit their money in banks for retirement purposes. Unemployment is at a record high, with more and more Filipinos in danger of losing their jobs in factories all over Japan.

While the Koizumi administration rose to power bannering structural reforms, it has yet to dispose of the corporate sector's excessive debts as well as correct the unprecedented budget deficit. An American economics professor even dubbed the Prime Minister as Mr. NATO -- "no action, talk only."

Amid the economic misery, Japan's suicide rate has increased by up to 35%, with more than 6,000 people, mostly men in their 50's, killing themselves for economic reasons. On the other hand, a Cabinet Office survey has shown that 65% of respondents feel uncertain about their lives, apparently due to the sluggish economy. That is how dire the situation has become.

On the other hand, it is also difficult for Filipinos here to opt for home. A recent survey by the Philippine-based Social Weather Stations has shown that a clear majority of Filipinos said they are "worse off now than they were 12 months ago." As far as this year's outlook is concerned, a majority felt that the Philippine economy would continue to become bleak.

The Filipino's plight in Japan can be aptly described as being caught "between the devil and the deep blue sea." While conditions here continue to deteriorate, the prospects back home are even worse.

In these stressful times, only either the best or the worst in us can emerge. In the increasingly competitive workplace, the Filipino should prove his mettle -- that he is truly world-class, diligent, hardworking, and most importantly, honest. This he should prove, not only to himself and to his family, but to his country as well.

While 2002 may be a year of economic uncertainties, at no other time should the Filipino worker make himself and his country proud. That is the only certainty in his hands. That is the only certainty that can diminish the uncertainties. *

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