Labor Force Grows to 52.3M in May 2025 as Gov’t Eyes More Job Opportunities

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority’s May 2025 Labor Force Survey, 65.8% of Filipinos are now part of the labor force, up from 64.8% in May 2024. That translates to 1.4 million more individuals engaged in or actively seeking employment, raising the total labor force to 52.32 million.

As employment trends shift, workers are now exploring job vacancies in Pampanga and other regional hubs as practical alternatives to Metro Manila’s saturated job market. With continued infrastructure growth and expanding sectors outside the capital, the search for stable, accessible work is finding new ground across the country.

The Philippine government is ramping up efforts to expand employment opportunities following new labor data that points to a rise in workforce participation. In a press briefing held July 8, Malacañang reaffirmed its commitment to increasing job access under the Bagong Pilipinas governance agenda.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. expressed satisfaction over the growing employment numbers but noted that the work isn’t done. The Palace emphasized that while the unemployment rate dropped to 3.9%, down from 4.1% the previous year, the focus now shifts to generating more quality jobs, particularly in industries that can sustain long-term growth.

However, the underemployment rate increased to 13.1%, suggesting that many workers are still underutilized or are seeking longer hours and more stable roles.

Why More Job Seekers Are Looking Outside the Capital

As Metro Manila continues to struggle with congestion and limited openings in certain industries, regional labor markets are stepping up. In Central Luzon, urgent job hiring in Pampanga is gaining momentum, particularly in logistics, manufacturing, and administrative support.

This reflects a broader shift in labor mobility. Infrastructure developments in Pampanga, especially around the Clark Freeport Zone, are helping attract both businesses and job seekers. For those based in Region III or open to relocating, these roles offer not only employment but also the chance to build careers in less saturated, better-connected environments.

Pampanga’s strategic location, lower cost of living, and rising demand across sectors make it a compelling choice for Filipino workers seeking stability.

Staying Aligned with a Changing Job Market

For professionals reentering the workforce or shifting fields, matching skills to in-demand jobs in the Philippines is becoming increasingly important.

Current growth sectors include:

• Healthcare and caregiving, both locally and abroad

• BPO and customer service roles, especially those that support hybrid work setups

• Skilled trades, such as electricians, welders, and equipment operators

• Tech and digital services, from e-commerce to IT support

Meanwhile, those previously employed in sectors like tourism or informal retail may need to consider lateral transitions or skills retraining. Labor data shows that workers in seasonal or part-time roles are particularly vulnerable to fluctuations in demand.

Understanding these patterns helps job seekers navigate their search more effectively and position themselves for sustainable roles.

Opportunity Clusters That Shouldn’t Overlook

Despite challenges in underemployment, labor experts point to emerging job opportunities in the Philippines, particularly in regions supported by government investment and infrastructure.

In Pampanga, several sectors are expanding:

• Warehousing and logistics, driven by Clark International Airport’s growth

• Remote-ready BPO roles, especially for graduates of local tech schools

• Renewable energy and public infrastructure projects in the surrounding areas

• Tourism-aligned hospitality roles in hotels, dining, and events

These roles aren't simply band-aid solutions. They reflect strategic trends in how businesses are responding to post-pandemic shifts and decentralization policies. For forward-looking applicants, it’s no longer just about where the jobs are now, but where they’re headed.

How Filipino Workers Can Prepare for a More Competitive Labor Market

Whether you're looking for a first job, returning after a break, or considering a career pivot, staying competitive in this evolving landscape requires intentional steps:

1. Upskill through TESDA, DICT, or online platforms – Build digital, customer service, or tech-related skills affordably.

2. Target flexible sectors – Industries like customer support, virtual assistance, and digital marketing continue to hire.

3. Attend regional job fairs – Especially in Pampanga, where demand is surging across industries.

4. Polish your resume – Highlight skills and outcomes, not just job titles.

5. Maximize your time – Use quieter job-hunting periods to learn new tools or attend online interviews.

With effort and adaptability, job seekers can take control of their careers even in uncertain times.

A Changing Landscape, a New Direction

Labor data may show numbers, but behind those numbers are decisions, pivots, and people ready for change. As the Philippine government works to boost job creation, workers must also take a proactive role.

Rather than waiting for old opportunities to return, many are choosing to go where the momentum is. And with more employment opportunities opening up in Pampanga and other key regions continuing to grow, the road to career recovery may lie beyond Metro Manila’s skyline.