A Phenomenological Reflection on Ubos-Biyayaand Petsa de Peligro: Capitalism’s Impact onFilipino Attitude of Spending and Church’sProposition for an Inclusive Economy

Abstract

This phenomenological study delves into the intertwined concepts of “ubos biyaya” and “petsa de peligro” in the socio- economic landscape of the Filipino society. Ubos-Biyaya, a Filipino term, encompasses the state of having depleted both tangible and intangible resources. Petsa de Peligro, translating to “day of danger,” signifies the period before payday when financial constraints intensify. This paper explores the correlation of ubos- biyaya and capitalism, which leads to the feeling and experience of petsa de peligro, elucidating how the latter emerges as a consequence of the former. It connects ubos-biyaya to planned obsolescence and the cathedrals of consumption, revealing how these systemic paradigms contribute to resource depletion and economic constraints. Furthermore, this scrutinizes the nexus between ubos-biyaya and the critique of capitalism, emphasizing the economic exclusion it engenders. It contemplates an alternative perspective, advocating for an economy of inclusion. This paper is divided into the following substantive parts: 1) defining ubos- biyaya and petsa de peligro; 2) petsa de peligro as an upshot of ubos-biyaya; 3) ubos-biyaya: a preconditioned outcome of planned obsolescence and the cathedrals of consumption; 4) the church on capitalism and the economy of exclusion; and 5) the church’s position towards an economy of inclusion. This exploration hopes to illuminate the cyclical nature of ubos-biyaya and petsa de peligro within the broader context of Filipino economic systems and social structures. It posits a critical evaluation of prevailing paradigms, urging a transition towards inclusive economic frameworks that prioritize sustainability, equitable resource allocation, and social cohesion.