Social media personality Xian Gaza drew flak from social media for chiding parents for their alleged “inability to provide for their children that continues the cycle of poverty.”
In his social media post, Gaza stated, “Kaya sana eh huwag po tayong mag-anak ng mag-anak if we are not financially capable. Huwag nating ipamana sa mga anak natin yung sumpa ng kahirapan thinking na sila ang mag-aahon sa atin.”
(I hope people think twice before having children if they are not financially capable. Let’s not pass on the curse of poverty to our kids, hoping they will be the ones to uplift us.”
He criticized systemic issues, such as parents having children without the financial means to support them.
Gaza shared his thoughts on the viral video of a young girl in a school uniform selling sampaguita flowers, who a security guard forcibly removed from an SM establishment.
In his Facebook post, Gaza expressed his frustration over the harsh realities faced by society’s less fortunate.
“It’s hard to be poor because the world is unfair to you. That is the painful reality,” Gaza lamented.
Highlighting the plight of street children
Gaza shed light on the struggles of children who, at a young age, are compelled to work to fund their education.
“You’re working hard at such a young age to pay for your schooling, only for your goods to be destroyed. Where will you get the capital to sell again tomorrow?” he questioned.
Message to the security guard
Gaza did not hesitate to address the security guard seen in the viral footage.
“To Manong Guard, if this message reaches you… I pray that you find a way out of your miserable life. I feel your exhaustion, and it is reflected in your actions. God bless you both,” he said, referring to the guard and the young girl.
Reactions from netizens
Gaza’s post sparked a flurry of reactions online. Some praised his insights on systemic poverty, while others criticized his comments for oversimplifying complex societal issues.
One netizen wrote: “His message about poverty is spot on. It’s a reminder of how unfair life can be for those born into it.”
Another countered: “While Xian’s comments on systemic poverty are valid, blaming the security guard entirely is unfair. The root of the problem is much deeper than this incident.”
Others condemned Gaza for what they perceived as insensitivity to the security guard’s circumstances, with some noting his controversial past as a “national scammer.”
The bigger picture
This viral incident has reignited discussions on poverty, child labor, and the treatment of street vendors in the Philippines. Many netizens emphasized the need for systemic solutions, including better social programs to address the root causes of poverty.
Meanwhile, SM Megamall has released an official statement condemning the guard’s actions, dismissing him from service, and reiterating their commitment to inclusivity and fairness.