ACCORDING to data released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), unemployment in the National Capital Region (NCR) recorded a slight increase in 2025, with the number of jobless individuals reaching 345,000.
This figure marks a modest rise compared to previous years, signaling a slowdown in the labor market recovery within the country’s economic center. The latest statistics reflect the challenges that persist in providing sufficient employment opportunities amid shifting economic conditions and industry demands.
The PSA report indicates that while the overall labor force participation rate remained relatively stable, the growth in available jobs failed to keep pace with the number of new entrants into the workforce.
Various factors contributed to this trend, including adjustments in the services and manufacturing sectors, which are major employers in Metro Manila. Some businesses adopted cost‑cutting measures or optimized operations, leading to fewer hires, while certain industries continued to face challenges from rising operational costs and market competition.
Despite the slight increase in unemployment, authorities noted that the situation remains manageable compared to higher figures recorded in previous years.
Government agencies and local government units are continuing to implement programs aimed at job generation, skills training, and livelihood support to help bridge the gap between job seekers and available positions. Policymakers are also reviewing measures to attract more investments and encourage business expansion in the region, with the goal of reversing the trend and bringing unemployment numbers back down in the coming year.
metrosundaily
