The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that the number of unemployed persons aged 15 years and over rose to 2.26 million in December 2025, marking an increase from 2.25 million in November 2025 and 1.63 million in December 2024. This translated to an unemployment rate of 4.4 percent—unchanged from the previous month but higher than the 3.1 percent recorded a year earlier.
The labor force participation rate (LFPR) was 64.4 percent in December 2025, slightly lower than December 2024 but improved compared to November 2025, representing 51.69 million Filipinos either employed or actively seeking work.
Employment data showed 49.43 million employed persons, a marginal increase from the prior month but down from December 2024. The employment rate remained at 95.6 percent, also slightly lower than the previous year.
By industry, the services sector accounted for the largest share of employment (62.4%), followed by agriculture (20.7%) and industry (16.9%). Sub-sectors with the biggest annual employment gains included administrative and support services, accommodation and food services, and education. Conversely, construction, transportation and storage, and manufacturing saw notable job declines.
The underemployment rate, reflecting those desiring additional work hours or jobs, was recorded at 8.0 percent, equivalent to 3.93 million underemployed workers, lower than in December 2024.
The PSA figures provide essential insights into recent labor market trends and help guide policy discussions on employment and workforce development in the Philippines.
