Getting to know work preferences in the Philippines

What do the Intro Asia community members really think about work? See the results of our three exclusive polls last March.

Poll 1: Most are employed full-time

The majority (70%) of respondents identified as full-time employees. This traditional structure offers stability, benefits like health insurance and paid time off, and a clear career path within an organization.

To provide further context, data from the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) highlights industries with high employment figures, such as construction (470K), transportation and storage (444K), and administrative support (344K).

Nearly one-fifth (19%) reported working part-time or as freelancers. This path provides flexibility and control over work hours and projects. However, it often comes with the responsibility of finding clients, managing finances, and securing health insurance.

The remaining 12% identified as project-based or contractual workers. This approach allows for specialized expertise to be applied to specific projects with a defined start and end date. It offers variety and the ability to choose projects that align with skills and interests, but may not always provide long-term security.

In a related report, a November 2023 findings by market research firm Agile Data Solutions found that over 60% of Filipinos participate in some form of part-time work. Notably, the survey also revealed a gender disparity, with men more likely to hold multiple part-time jobs.

This distribution reflects the changing nature of work. While full-time positions remain the most common, a significant portion of the workforce embraces alternative structures.

Poll 2: The future of work is (still) hybrid

The Philippines is experiencing a significant shift towards flexible work arrangements. This trend is evident in a recent poll conducted by the Intro team, where a significant portion of respondents expressed a preference for flexible work options.

Poll 3: Productivity

In a 2023 study, Cisco surveyed over 9,200 employees across seven countries, including the Philippines. The study revealed a disconnect between employee needs and current office layouts. Employees reported that meeting rooms and office designs hinder their productivity.

In a related shift in this preference, a 2023 JLL survey identified holistic well-being as a top trend in corporate real estate. This concept prioritizes creating inclusive and empowering workspaces that address employees' social, physical, and mental well-being, both at home and in the office. Ultimately, this approach aims to foster stronger connections and a more productive work environment.

Next steps: Ergonomics in a collaborative workplace

One way to address these concerns is through ergonomics. By providing ergonomic workspaces, employers can reduce discomfort and the risk of musculoskeletal disorders such as those in the upper limbs, back, and wrist among their employees.