Barahona economic life in the 1970s recounted by Oscar López Reyes

Oscar López Reyes provides a personal reflection on the economic and social conditions in Barahona, Dominican Republic, between 1973 and 1976. He describes earning 100 pesos monthly from two jobs in government and media, which allowed him to support a family of four with surplus funds.

During this period, the lifestyle was characterized by simplicity and a lack of modern amenities such as televisions, telephones, refrigerators, or motor vehicles. Basic services like water and trash collection were provided without direct cost, and public education was free.

López Reyes also details the low cost of essential goods regulated by the Dirección General de Control de Precios. For example, a pound of rice cost 8 cents, beans cost 7 cents, and sugar cost 4 cents. Fresh milk was also highly affordable, sold for 8 to 10 cents per liter.