The Asian Development Bank Institute (ADBI) says the government should protect middle-class purchasing power using targeted aid to help sustain economic growth. ADBI dean and CEO Bambang Brodjonegoro says weakening household consumption among the middle class could further slow growth.
ADBI’s position is that policy efforts should focus on the middle class because it accounts for most household consumption. The institute argues that maintaining the size and purchasing capacity of this group supports demand in the broader economy.
Both reports draw from the same ADBI remarks and present a consistent policy message. Neither outlet highlights a specific proposed program or identifies alternative approaches; the coverage centers on the link ADBI makes between household consumption, middle-class stability, and economic recovery. The World Bank reference in one report provides context about the Philippines’ income classification, but does not change the core argument attributed to ADBI.
