Protect the middle? Why Southeast Asia should care about a vulnerable class

Analysts are urging Southeast Asian governments to increase support for their middle class, who are facing economic challenges like rising prices, higher borrowing costs, and job insecurity. This demographic is crucial for driving consumer spending but often lacks adequate social protection, which is typically designed for lower-income households. The situation has become particularly evident in the Philippines, where the Asian Development Bank Institute (ADBI) recommended in September that the government implement targeted assistance for the middle class. The goal is to safeguard this vulnerable group and maintain economic stability within the region.