In this episode of Elevate Cents, I sat down with Congressman Irwin Tieng to explore how values driven leadership can impact and improve everyday living standards. We talked about why he chose public service over his family’s media business, the lessons he drew from his upbringing, and what compelled him to enter politics so young. Congressman Tieng mapped out urban life, the structural roots of poverty, and how everyday debt traps like “5–6” lending and weak budgeting habits keep families stuck. We discussed what the government is doing now, how his District 5 livelihood efforts aim to build income and resilience, and why financial literacy has to work alongside systemic reforms. We also looked at digital payments, entrepreneurship, and protections against online scams, where good policy can widen access and reduce risk. He shared what he’d teach every student about money and purpose. Congressman Tieng’s story is a reminder that public service isn’t about titles; it’s about building pathways that let more Filipinos thrive.
Comments