This study is an analysis of the situation of the working youth in the Philippines based on statistical data from the National Statistics Office (NSO) and anecdotal information from related studies.
The first chapter presents the magnitude and distribution (by gender, urbanity, and region depending on data availability) of youth employment by providing statistical figures on labour force participation, employment, and unemployment rates of the working youth as well as their relevant economic and socio-demographic characteristics.
Chapter 2 examines the difficulties and issues confronting the working youths. Findings show that youth workers are seriously discriminated against in terms of lower income, poor access to social security, inadequate information about workers’ rights, and hazardous and stressful working conditions. The reality is even harsher for young women workers who receive less compared to their male counterparts.
The major policies affecting young workers are discussed in Chapter 3. The chapter reviews labor laws, regulations, and standards. The scope and specific functions of agencies implementing youth welfare and labour programs are further examined in Chapter 4. Chapter 5 assesses the sufficiency government resources in carrying out programs and in the enforcement of labour laws and standards for the working youth.
The last chapter discusses the necessary policy reforms in view of the prevailing concerns of the working youth. The study upholds the promotion of appropriate development policies and expansion of labour demand as a general rule to address massive unemployment. The study further suggests continuing investment in human capital but with changes geared toward economy and efficiency. The adoption and strict enforcement of more feasible labour standards and laws, among other things, is likewise called for.
