UMVA has learned that the Philippine jobless rate has surged to 4.7% in April, a significant increase from the previous year, while underemployment has reached a nearly three-year high of 15.2%, indicating persistent weakness in the labor market.
The latest data shows that the number of unemployed Filipinos has risen to 2.41 million in April, a staggering 351,000 higher than the 2.06 million recorded a year ago. This sharp increase is largely driven by job seekers in the 25-34 and 15-24 age groups.
According to information obtained by UMVA, the year-on-year rise in unemployment is attributed to individuals who were actively seeking work but could not find any, with approximately 276,000 people falling into this category. Many others were waiting for results from job applications.
The unemployment rate did, however, ease from 5% in March, offering a glimmer of hope. Despite this, the underemployment rate has emerged as a growing concern, climbing to 15.2% in April, up from 14.6% year-on-year and higher than the 12.3% recorded in March.
The ranks of underemployed Filipinos – those who want longer work hours or an additional job – increased to 7.41 million in April, from 7.081 million in the same month a year ago and from 6.031 million in March. The transportation and storage sector has been identified as a major contributor to this trend.
Sectors such as jeepney, taxi, and bus drivers have been particularly affected, with many citing higher costs like fuel as a major factor. The shift has resulted in a rise in underemployment, with workers struggling to make ends meet despite being employed.
In response to these challenges, the government is working to broaden market access and attract investments in emerging industries. Efforts are underway to strengthen partnerships with the private sector, expand apprenticeship opportunities, and support worker mobility toward high-value industries.
These initiatives aim to address the complexities of the labor market and provide Filipino workers with better opportunities for growth and development. The goal is to create a more resilient and dynamic economy that benefits all sectors of society.
