The Philippines’ unemployment rate fell to 5.1 percent in February 2026, down from 5.8 percent in January, the Philippine Statistics Authority reported Wednesday.

Despite the month-to-month decline, the unemployment rate remains above the 3.8 percent recorded in February 2025. The number of unemployed Filipinos in February 2026 was estimated at 2.66 million, down from 2.96 million in January but higher than 1.94 million a year earlier.

The labor force participation rate, representing Filipinos aged 15 and above who were employed or actively seeking work, stood at 63.8 percent in February 2026. This is lower than the 64.5 percent recorded in February 2025 but slightly higher than the 62.3 percent observed in January 2026.

The February 2026 labor force totaled 52.09 million, compared with 51.09 million in February 2025 and 50.89 million in January 2026.

The figures indicate gradual improvements in employment, though analysts note that overall participation remains below pre-pandemic levels, signaling persistent challenges in the job market.