Philippine Labor Market Sees Steady Gains in Employment

The Philippine labor market continues to show positive momentum with rising employment figures and consistent improvements in unemployment and underemployment rates. According to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), employment reached an average of 96.2% in 2024, the highest in recent years, reflecting the country’s resilience despite global economic disruptions and growing job hiring in Pampanga and other key regions.

Unemployment dropped to an average of 3.8%, while underemployment, those seeking additional hours or income declined to 11.9%. The trend extended into early 2025, with the employment rate reaching 96.2% in February, and underemployment improving to 10.1%. These figures, supported by Monthly Labor Force Survey (LFS) data, indicate a strengthening labor market backed by targeted government interventions.

Labor Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma attributed this progress to the full implementation of government plans such as the Philippine Development Plan (2023–2028), the Philippine Labor and Employment Plan, and the Trabaho Para sa Bayan Plan, all focused on boosting job creation, digitalization, enterprise support, and workforce upskilling.

How It Affects Economic Growth

The steady rise in employment directly supports the country's macroeconomic growth. With more Filipinos holding stable jobs, consumer demand increases driving sales, production, and investment. A higher labor market also expands the tax base, allowing the government to fund infrastructure, education, and public services.

Stable jobs reduce poverty and strengthen household incomes, especially in rural and underdeveloped areas. Sectors such as manufacturing, retail, and construction benefit from higher productivity as more skilled workers join the labor force. This kind of inclusive growth fuels broader national development and helps the Philippines remain competitive in the ASEAN region.

Moreover, reduced underemployment means more workers are finding jobs that match their skills and needs. This shift leads to better job satisfaction, lower turnover, and higher economic output per worker. Further strengthening the country’s productivity and long-term growth prospects.

How It Affects Employers and Workforce Development

Employers are also reaping the benefits of a healthier labor market. With more qualified applicants available, companies are filling roles faster and experiencing fewer gaps in operations. The alignment of government training programs with industry needs ensures that the workforce is equipped with in-demand skills, making recruitment and onboarding more efficient.

The ongoing digitalization of public employment services, including online job portals and mobile apps, helps businesses post vacancies, filter applicants, and access labor data in real time. This has reduced the costs and administrative burdens of hiring. DOLE’s upskilling and reskilling initiatives, in partnership with TESDA and private training institutions, ensure that workers can transition into emerging sectors such as green jobs, digital services, logistics, and healthcare. For employers, this results in a more agile and future-ready workforce, key to staying competitive in today’s fast-changing global economy.

These improvements also contribute to long-term employment growth, with companies investing more in human capital, expanding their operations, and generating more quality jobs locally including increased employment opportunities in Pampanga and nearby job hub cities.

How It Affects Job Seekers

For jobseekers, the rise in employment translates to more opportunities and better choices. With job fairs happening more frequently monthly or bi-weekly, more Filipinos can access potential employers without long wait times. These events are held in various regions to reach even those in far-flung communities.

New graduates, displaced workers, and informal sector laborers are now supported through DOLE's targeted programs. Youth employment initiatives, such as job bridging and apprenticeship schemes, help younger Filipinos gain their first work experience. Digital platforms also allow users to apply for jobs, receive updates, and explore training opportunities anytime, anywhere. The emphasis on skills matching means applicants are more likely to be hired for jobs where they can succeed and grow. For those in jobs seeking better pay or hours, improved underemployment data suggests increasing access to full-time and higher-quality roles.

Jobseekers also benefit from free career coaching, resume building, and entrepreneurship support. These services build confidence, especially for those re-entering the workforce or shifting careers.

As a result, Filipinos are not only finding work through available jobs in Pampanga and nearby areas, they’re also finding pathways to long-term career development and economic mobility.

Building a Future Through Quality Jobs

The latest labor figures highlight more than steady growth, they show a nation steadily moving toward recovery and opportunity. Behind the numbers is a growing collaboration between government agencies, local leaders, employers, and skills training providers, all working together to support both workers and industries.

DOLE’s efforts to improve job quality, address underemployment, and adapt to today’s changing job market are shaping a more prepared and resilient Filipino workforce. With continued economic progress, more Filipinos now have the chance to find decent jobs that offer stability, growth, and dignity.

Looking ahead, the Philippine labor market is on a solid path toward more employment opportunities, better-trained workers, and a future where inclusive growth benefits every Filipino.