Unemployment rate slightly up in March 2025, underemployment worsens

The Philippine unemployment rate slightly increased to 3.9% in March 2025 from 3.8% in February 2025, a rate that remains flat compared to March of the previous year.

The number of jobless Filipinos in March 2025 decreased to 1.93 million, down from 1.94 million in February 2025 and 2 million in March 2024.

The underemployment rate worsened significantly, rising to 13.4% in March 2025 from 10.1% in February 2025 and 11% in March 2024.

This increase in underemployment means that 6.44 million Filipinos were seeking additional work or longer hours in March 2025, a notable rise from previous periods.

National Statistician Claire Dennis S. Mapa noted that the rise in underemployment was primarily driven by 'invisible underemployed' individuals who work 40 hours or more but are seeking additional employment or higher salaries.

The average unemployment rate for the first quarter of 2025 was 4%, consistent with the same period last year.