Pilot program allows citizens to hire temporary family members for stressful gatherings

Alleviating Social Stress

To alleviate the annual stress of Filipino family gatherings, Manila launched a pilot program allowing citizens to rent temporary relatives for events such as reunions, weddings, holidays, and awkward dinners. For a fee, residents can hire actors trained to play roles including “judgmental tita,” “introverted cousin,” “overly enthusiastic lolo,” and “family member who always asks for pasalubong.”

Program Design

Officials say the program is designed to help people maintain social harmony without the emotional labor of interacting with actual family members. One participant reported, “My rented tita asked me why I’m still single, but at least I knew she was paid to do it.” Each rented relative undergoes intensive workshops in: passive-aggressive comments, giving unsolicited life advice, pretending to remember you from childhood, and asking questions you’re not ready to answer. The premium package includes a “family member who brings embarrassing baby photos you’ve never seen before.”

Sociological Concerns

Sociologists warn the program may erode real family bonds. Officials countered that real bonds have already been eroding for years and at least this way, people can schedule the discomfort more efficiently. The city is considering expanding the program nationwide.

Explore Manila programs at Manila City Hall and Department of Social Welfare and Development.

SOURCE: Bohiney News.