“MONEY, money, must be funny in a rich man’s world,” sings ABBA in its 1976 hit “Money, Money, Money.” As families struggle with rising prices, inadequate housing, and unstable incomes, a new face joins the agency tasked with representing them. Last Oct. 19, Zofia Canlas took her oath as commissioner of the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP). 

Canlas’ appointment drew public attention after photographs of her international travels circulated on social media, prompting online discussions about her privileged background, qualifications, and suitability for a position tasked with representing the urban poor. Some netizens also referred to her as a “Gen Z jetsetter.”

Tracing the Path to Service

Canlas’ path to public service began at De La Salle University, where she earned her degree in Medical Biology. She later became the first nominee of the Batang Quiapo party-list in the 2025 midterm elections, though the party failed to secure a seat. In July that year, she became chief of staff to PCUP Chairperson Michelle Anne Gonzales. Her family also has ties to the government: her father, Jose Marcell Canlas, reportedly serves as an assistant secretary under the Office of the Executive Secretary.

For many Filipinos, entering the workforce means navigating a competitive job market, submitting applications, attending interviews, and waiting for employment opportunities. At 27, Canlas had already assumed a position in a government commission while many Filipinos her age were still establishing their careers. Although the Constitution sets a minimum age of 35 for members of the Commission on Elections and the Civil Service Commission, those requirements do not automatically apply to PCUP commissioners. The difference in age requirements, however, does not settle the broader questions surrounding the qualifications and experience expected of public officials.

Her appointment also raises broader questions about the qualifications expected of those entrusted with public office. While access to government positions may follow different paths, appointments to public office warrant scrutiny of an individual’s qualifications and track record, particularly when the role involves representing vulnerable communities.

That scrutiny carries particular weight given the PCUP’s mandate. Under Executive Order No. 82, issued in 1986, the PCUP serves as a direct link between the urban poor and the government, helping ensure that their concerns are considered in policy formulation and program implementation. Its work spans housing, livelihood, basic services, and the protection of urban poor communities from displacement.

Beyond Good Intentions 

A day after Canlas’ appointment, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro defended the decision, saying the President values dedication to public service regardless of socioeconomic background.

 “Anuman ang estado mo sa buhay, mayaman ka, mahirap ka, kung ikaw ay may kakayahang magtrabaho, magsilbi para sa bayan, iyan ang numero uno para sa Pangulo—ang totoo at dedikado, may dedikasyon na makapagsilbi sa bayan,” Castro said. 

While dedication to public service is essential, the PCUP’s mandate also demands an understanding of the communities it serves. Canlas’ degree in Medical Biology provides a background in the biological sciences, while the commission addresses concerns involving housing, livelihood, basic services, and displacement. Meeting these challenges requires the ability to understand the social and economic conditions of urban poverty and help develop responsive programs.

Canlas’ appointment drew criticism online, with some netizens questioning whether her privileged background and political connections contributed to her rapid rise to public office. Akbayan Youth echoed these concerns, alleging patronage politics and nepotism while contrasting her travel posts with the hardships of informal settlers facing demolitions and inadequate relocation support.

For countless Filipino workers, life means putting in long hours just to cover bills and basic necessities, with little room to get ahead. For officials entrusted with representing vulnerable sectors, good intentions must be matched by competence and an understanding of the communities they serve. 

For the urban poor, representation must mean more than occupying a seat in government. It must mean having their struggles understood, their concerns heard, and their needs reflected in meaningful action.