Filipinos open to working abroad — OCTA

MORE THAN HALF of adult Filipinos are willing to live or work overseas for better job prospects, higher pay and improved living standards, a survey by OCTA Research showed.

OCTA Research Director Ranjit S. Rye said 57% of adult Filipinos expressed openness to migrating overseas in the firm’s first-quarter survey.

“Migration remains a mainstream aspiration among Filipinos… [and] continues to occupy an important place in how many Filipinos envision economic advancement, career development and long-term family well-being,” he said in the report.

The survey also found that 39% of respondents were unwilling to migrate, while 4% were undecided.

OCTA Research conducted the poll from March 19 to 25 among 1,200 adult respondents nationwide. The survey had a margin of error of ±3 percentage points.

Results showed migration interest cuts across income classes. About 57% of respondents in Classes D and E, and 56% in Class ABC said they would consider moving abroad.

Interest rose among specific groups, including college-educated Filipinos at 73% and urban residents at 62%.

Economic factors remained the main drivers. Among those considering migration, 67% cited better job opportunities, 61% pointed to higher wages, and 58% sought improved quality of life. Only 14% cited safety or political stability.

“Filipinos are not leaving because of instability or insecurity; they are leaving because the jobs available at home do not pay enough, offer sufficient career growth or provide adequate work-life balance,” Mr. Rye said.

Younger Filipinos showed the strongest inclination to migrate. About 81% of those aged 18 to 24, and 75% of those aged 25 to 34 expressed willingness to work or live overseas.

Researchers said the trend raises concerns about talent retention and long-term economic output, given that the age group represents the country’s future workforce.

“The exceptionally high willingness to migrate among younger Filipinos is particularly noteworthy,” Mr. Rye said. “Their strong interest in opportunities abroad highlights the increasingly global nature of talent competition.”

The findings suggest many Filipinos see migration as a path to upward mobility rather than a response to hardship.

“The question is not why Filipinos leave: it is whether the country gives them a reason to stay,” Mr. Rye said. “Until these conditions are met, leaving will remain the unstated life plan of a majority of Filipinos.” — Erika Mae P. Sinaking