Manila: The positive development in the country's labor force figures is a result of the government's relentless efforts to create more jobs, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said Thursday.
According to Philippines News Agency, DOLE Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma stated that the latest Labor Force Survey (LFS) report released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) shows that the Marcos administration is on the right track in providing quality employment to Filipinos. The January 2025 Labor Force Survey (LFS) presents a promising outlook for the labor market, with the unemployment rate slightly decreasing to 4.3 percent from 4.5 percent in January 2024. This progress is further complemented by an increase in the employment rate, which rose to 95.7 percent from 95.5 percent in the previous year, alongside a higher labor force participation rate of 63.9 percent, up from 61.1 percent.
Laguesma highlighted that these developments underscore the positive momentum in the ongoing efforts to expand job opportunities and strengthen workforce development. The decrease in underemployment to 13.3 percent from 13.7 percent in January 2024 indicates that more workers are securing adequate hours, which is crucial for sustainable and quality employment.
He noted that the services sector remains a key driver of employment, accounting for 61.6 percent of total employment. Significant growth is also observed in agriculture, forestry, wholesale and retail trade, and the accommodation and food service sectors. To further strengthen the labor market, DOLE plans to promote the Trabaho sa Bagong Pilipinas initiative through regular job fairs, linking vulnerable groups to sustained income opportunities, and supporting micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through accelerated Adjustment Measures Program (AMP) initiatives in rural areas.
Laguesma emphasized the pursuit of digitalizing Public Employment Services (PES) to enhance accessibility and efficiency for job seekers and employers via platforms like PhilJobNet and PESO Employment Information System (PEIS). The issuance of Department Order No. 248, which updates rules for the employment of foreign nationals, introduces measures aimed at prioritizing Filipino workers through initiatives like the Economic Needs Test (ENT) and the requirement for employers to implement an Understudy Training Program.
The partnership with JobStreet Philippines, Inc., formalized through a memorandum of agreement during Career Con 2025, was also highlighted as a commitment to connect Filipino workers with meaningful employment opportunities. This collaboration focuses on labor market information sharing, streamlining job fair processes, and advancing youth employability programs.
Laguesma reiterated the DOLE's dedication to building a future-ready and globally competitive workforce in line with the Philippine government's vision of a Bagong Pilipinas that is inclusive, progressive, and resilient. He also mentioned upskilling and reskilling programs to address the evolving needs of the labor market shaped by technology, globalization, and climate change.
Further, the DOLE is fostering international collaboration through initiatives like the ASEAN Workshop on Strengthening Labor Market Information and Digital Intermediaries, supported by Deutsche Gesellschaft fr Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and the International Labour Organization (ILO).
With the implementation of Republic Act 12063, the Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) Framework Act, the DOLE is poised to align its educational and training programs with the dynamic needs of industries. The department remains committed to advancing the Philippine labor market through evidence-based strategies and a whole-of-government approach.
Despite these advances, the DOLE acknowledges challenges such as the decline in manufacturing, professional services, and construction jobs, which necessitate targeted interventions to bolster these sectors. Addressing these challenges remains a priority, alongside fostering an environment that attracts investment and innovation.
