MANILA — The Philippine labor market showed positive signs in November 2024, with more Filipinos employed compared to the previous month, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

As of November, the labor force numbered 51.20 million, up from 50.12 million in October. Of this, 49.54 million (96.8%) were employed, and 1.66 million (3.2%) were jobless.

The underemployment rate decreased to 10.8%, down from 12.6% in October, indicating fewer workers seeking additional hours or new jobs.

The average workweek increased slightly to 41.1 hours, surpassing both the 40.2 hours in November 2023 and 41.0 hours in October 2024.

The services sector remained dominant, employing 62.1% of the workforce, followed by agriculture (20%) and industry (17.9%). Sub-sectors with the most significant growth included manufacturing, accommodation and food services, human health, and transportation, while agriculture, wholesale trade, and fishing saw declines in employment.

National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan emphasized the government’s commitment to enhancing job quality and boosting income. This includes fostering investments, improving workforce skills, and facilitating job placements.

“The labor market is strong, with high employment and lower underemployment. Our focus now is to expand business and employment opportunities, while ensuring that workers receive competitive wages through skills development,” Balisacan said.

He also highlighted government efforts to create jobs through the Create More Act and the Enterprise-Based Education and Training framework, which aim to attract investments and improve the workforce’s capabilities.

Balisacan also pointed to programs designed to support climate-vulnerable communities, such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) cash-for-work and training programs, which help prepare for and mitigate the effects of disasters like floods and typhoons.

In addition, the DSWD, NEDA, and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) are developing tools to enhance aid distribution and minimize duplication, ensuring that vulnerable Filipinos receive the assistance they need.

ia/mnm