MANILA, Philippines — The number of unemployed Filipinos climbed to nearly 3 million in the latest labor force survey, highlighting persistent challenges in the country’s recovery and the shifting nature of the local job market. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the unemployment rate saw a slight uptick, reflecting both seasonal fluctuations and a mismatch between available skills and industry demands.
National Statistician Dennis Mapa reported that while the economy has shown signs of growth, the labor market is struggling to absorb the influx of new entrants, particularly in the services and agriculture sectors. The data also pointed to a significant number of “underemployed” individuals—those who have jobs but are seeking more hours or better pay—suggesting that job quality remains as pressing an issue as job availability.
Economic managers noted that the construction and manufacturing sectors provided some cushion to the labor market, driven by ongoing infrastructure projects and increased industrial output. However, the gains in these areas were offset by job losses in the wholesale and retail trade sectors, which are often sensitive to inflationary pressures and changes in consumer spending.
“The government is focused on enhancing our labor programs and accelerating investments that create high-quality, sustainable jobs,” said a spokesperson from the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA). “We are also looking at upskilling initiatives to ensure that our workforce is prepared for the evolving requirements of the global digital economy.”
Labor groups, meanwhile, have renewed their calls for more robust social protection measures and a review of the national minimum wage, arguing that the current job market conditions leave many Filipino families vulnerable to poverty. As the administration looks toward the second half of 2026, the challenge remains to translate macroeconomic growth into tangible employment opportunities that provide living wages.