The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has reported a significant increase in the country’s employment rate, reaching 96.8 percent in November 2024, according to the latest Labor Force Survey.

DOLE Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma on Friday, Jan. 10, credited the growth to the addition of 1.385 million employed Filipinos since October 2024, fueled by gains in key sectors such as manufacturing, accommodation and food services, health and social work, and transportation.

The report also showed improvements in both unemployment and underemployment rates, with unemployment falling to 3.2 percent from 3.6 percent in 2023, and underemployment dropping to 10.8 percent from 11.7 percent.

Laguesma said the gains were largely the result of government initiatives focused on job creation and workforce development, including upskilling and reskilling programs in partnership with the private sector to equip workers for emerging industries.

However, he acknowledged that challenges persist, particularly with the rise of technological advancements, artificial intelligence, and climate change, which continue to impact labor force participation, especially among youth and women.

Youth participation declined from 6.92 million in November 2023 to 6.516 million in 2024, while women’s participation fell from 55.4 percent to 53.9 percent, according to the report.

In response, Laguesma said the DOLE is focusing on recent legislative measures, such as the CREATE MORE Act and the Enterprise-based Education and Training Framework Act, designed to enhance workforce training and address these challenges.

The department has also introduced updated youth employability modules to improve job readiness and provide greater opportunities for vulnerable groups.