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The Philippines is Addressing Poverty: A Multi-Pronged Approach

Philippines is addressing povertyThe Philippines is addressing poverty with a three-tier strategy that combines cash transfers, education reforms and expanded health care coverage, officials say, as policymakers aim to transition short-term relief into sustainable progress.

A Stronger Social Safety Net

At the core of the country’s effort is the flagship conditional cash-transfer program known as the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). The program provides regular cash payments to low-income households that meet specific criteria, including regular school attendance for children and regular preventive health care visits. The idea is to provide an immediate buffer from extreme hardship while encouraging families to adopt behaviors that build human capital.

Government planners identify poverty reduction, universal health care and quality education as the three key “socioeconomic goals” driving this agenda.

Expanding Access to Education

On the education front, the Philippine government passed the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (RA 10931) in 2017. It provides free tuition and certain school-fee subsidies at state universities and colleges and offers a “tertiary education subsidy” (TES) for students in private institutions under particular conditions. The policy has benefited more than two million students.

Officials say that free higher education is a vital means of equipping low-income households for stable employment, thereby helping to break the cycle of poverty. For example, 4Ps households are being encouraged to tap the student-aid schemes. Yet analysts note that participation among the most impoverished deciles remains lower than among wealthier peers; in 2019, only about 6.1% of students came from the neediest households versus higher shares in better-off ones.

Health Care Investment and Risk Protection

The Philippines is also addressing poverty by working to fortify health care access through its Universal Health Care (UHC) law. It aims to reduce financial risk from illness and to expand service delivery, especially for people experiencing poverty. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), high out-of-pocket spending and health-service gaps have been drivers of poverty in the country.

A study by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) identified major geographic coverage gaps: while most major regions have national health insurance enrollment rates above 90%, conflict-affected provinces in Mindanao reported coverage levels as low as 52%.

Early Progress

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, the national poverty rate dropped from 18.1% in 2021 to 15.5% in 2023. This translates to a decline of roughly 2.4 million individuals living under the official poverty line. It suggests the multi-pronged strategy is yielding results. However, officials caution that inflation (especially food price inflation) and regional disparities remain serious headwinds.

Despite the framework, key challenges remain. In health care, enrollment is still concentrated among formal-sector workers, making it difficult to extend equitable coverage to informal and rural populations. In higher education, low-income households continue to be underrepresented, raising concerns about whether subsidies are reaching those who need them most.

Finally, in cash-transfer programs, persistent inequalities, service-delivery bottlenecks and local government capacity gaps mean full reach has not yet been achieved.

Looking Ahead

For the Philippines’ approach to translate into enduring poverty reduction, policymakers will need to deepen the linkages among welfare, education and health interventions. That means ensuring vulnerable households are not only stabilized by cash grants, but that their children benefit from quality schools and are shielded from catastrophic health-care costs. If effectively implemented, the integrated model offers a pathway from relief to resilience.

– Arielle Telfort

Arielle is based in Purchase, NY, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Abolishing Child Marriage in the Philippines

Child Marriage in the PhilippinesOn Dec. 10, 2021, President Rodrigo Duterte signed the Prohibition of Child Marriage Law (Republic Act no. 11596), which prohibited marrying a child under the age of 18, to end the abuse and trauma of adolescent Filipinas. However, child marriage in the Philippines still persists today.

The Prohibition of Child Marriage Law

Prior to the Philippines’ enactment of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Law on Jan. 6, 2022, child marriage was a common practice in the Philippines. This placed young girls in danger of sexual violence and childbirth. According to a 2017 report by the Philippine National Demographic and Health Survey, one out of six Filipinas under the age of 18 were married.

In 2017, the recorded rate of child marriages in the Philippines was more than 16%. Since the Prohibition of Child Marriage Law, the rate had gone down to 9.4% in 2022. While there has been a substantial decrease, child marriage has not been completely eradicated.

The Issue

While the Philippines has raised the legal age of consent to 18 years old, some in the country continue to justify the marriage of children in a religious or cultural context. Despite the Prohibition of Child Marriage Law, there exists an exception to it: Presidential Decree No. 1083. The Code of Muslim Personal Laws, which President Ferdinand Marcos enacted, allows for the marriage of girls as young as 15 to marry. 

This is especially prevalent in the large Muslim population of Mindanao. A 2021 study that the Bangsamoro Women Commission conducted recorded around 88,600 child brides in the local region. Other highly affected areas are Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.

Why Is It Happening?

  • Patriarchal norms within Filipino households are common. They result in the limiting of women’s autonomy as society teaches them to be wives and obedient to their husbands.
  • Weak law enforcement in the Philippines results in the failure to impose the Prohibition of Child Marriage Law. Additionally, issues are resolved in an inconsistent and informal manner. 
  • Religious and cultural traditions, specifically Islamic teachings, believe that premarital relationships outside of marriage are haram acts, resulting in followers adhering to religious standards, like forced marriages, to maintain family honor. Some argue that a female is prepared to be wed once she has reached puberty, which results in many child brides being around 15 years of age.
  • The legal age of consent is 16 years old while the legal age to be wed is 18 years old in the Philippines. This may result in teen pregnancy which then leads to parents forcing marriage upon the child to avoid the social stigma of premarital relationships.
  • Economic hardships can cause families to force their child into a marriage as they believe it to be their only escape to a better life. Mindanao has the highest population of child brides and is also the poorest region in the Philippines.

The allowance of early or forced marriage at such a young age makes the child more susceptible to experiencing poverty, domestic violence, maternal mortality and a multitude of adverse effects on emotional and physical health.

Enhancing the Protection of Children Against Early Marriage

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) presented a Child Protection Systems Strengthening (CPSS) framework to combat child marriage in 2024, which will apply to Muslim Mindanao.

The DWSD has been in charge of enforcing the Prohibition of Child Marriage Law since its implementation and provides services and resources to support and address the prevention of child marriages. The DWSD and CWC have collaborated with the intention of hindering child marriages and shifting cultural norms and attitudes in the Philippines. They have held workshops comprising not only parents and children but also community leaders to gather input in creating a CPSS to end marriages under 18 years old. CPSS will work to improve the implementation and enforcement of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Law by adopting more laws and policies such as government offices, a child-protection workforce.

Those in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao will offer their input through their involvement in these workshops as they assist in designing, testing and evaluating a CPSS. The presence of individuals who have first-hand knowledge of child marriage in the Philippines is paramount in developing a solution towards it.

Involving community leaders to learn about what they can do to protect children from early marriage is a key to ending it. Becoming aware of identifying, recognizing and preventing the abuse of children through the education of child protection laws and gender-based violence will supply leaders with the ability to provide children the support they need.

Looking Ahead

In the fight against child marriage in the Philippines, the Prohibition of Child Marriage Law served to protect young Filipina girls from the patriarchal gender inequality that attempts to control women. But further work is needed to prevent the suffering of young girls in the Philippines forced into early marriage. They endure a lifetime of poverty, abuse and violence at the hands of a patriarchal system and harmful longtime traditions. 

By recognizing the detrimental behaviors and effects pertaining to child marriage with access to resources, young Filipinas will have the independence that they deserve.

– Caydie Tampac

Caydie is based in Reno, NV, USA and focuses on Good News and Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Digital Inclusion in the Philippines

Digital Inclusion in the PhilippinesThe Philippines has high social media usage and an expanding tech sector. However, millions in rural, low-income areas lack access to digital services. With only 28% of households having fixed internet in 2023, the country lags behind Vietnam (79%), Thailand (55%) and Malaysia (54%). This raises the question of whether bridging the digital divide can help alleviate poverty.

Digital Poverty: When Connectivity Becomes a Necessity

Digital poverty refers to the inability of individuals to fully engage with the online world due to insufficient access to devices, reliable internet, digital skills or financial means. This inability affects opportunities in education, employment and social interactions, as well as access to government programs, job listings, online marketplaces and distance learning.

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted digital exclusion, as many students in lockdown faced online access issues, leading to dropouts and academic setbacks. This situation exemplifies how digital poverty exacerbates economic poverty, with more than 2.3 million people in the Philippines falling into poverty from 2018 to 2021 due to the pandemic’s economic impact.

Rural Impact: Digital Tools for Smallholder Farmers

Applications and SMS platforms, such as FarmHelp, e-Kadiwa and Rice Crop Manager, empower farmers by providing access to market prices, weather updates and direct buyers. These tools enhance farm management, improve connectivity and provide financial and technical support, resulting in higher earnings and reduced risks. The Philippine agriculture sector plays a crucial role in the economy, with predictions that by 2025, more than 70% of rural farmers will use mobile phones for essential agricultural and forestry management.

The Role of Mobile Money and Digital Banking

According to Global Market Magazine, about 66% of the Philippine population remains unbanked. The term “unbanked” refers to individuals who lack access to a bank or a similar financial institution. E-wallets like GCash and Maya are essential for savings, remittances and emergency funds in the Philippines.

These digital wallet providers are enhancing cybersecurity, interoperability and fund access while expanding their services to include investment products and global options for overseas workers. As digital wallets evolve, they are expected to drive further growth in the country’s digital economy. In 2024, the Philippines faced significant challenges regarding financial literacy, despite the growing adoption of e-wallets.

Current statistics reveal that only about 25% of Filipinos have a grasp of fundamental financial concepts, indicating prevalent deficiencies in skills such as budgeting, saving and debt management. While there have been some advancements in financial education, the overall progress remains slow. This underscores the urgent need for initiatives that make financial education more accessible and equitable.

The Gender and Youth Angle

Women in low-income households are less likely to own mobile devices or possess digital literacy, thereby widening the inequality gap. Youth digital entrepreneurs, including TikTok sellers and online freelancers, have significant potential for generating inclusive income with improved connectivity. Digital entrepreneurship involves entrepreneurs establishing businesses by utilizing online platforms, enabling them to reach a wider audience and leverage various internet resources and strategies.

The Philippines’ digital transactions in 2021 totaled 1.87 trillion pesos (about $598 billion), equivalent to 9.6% of the country’s GDP, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). The digital economy, where products and services are sold online, is also directly influenced as the nation becomes more knowledgeable about the nuances of digital entrepreneurship.

Kimberly Yao is a notable digital entrepreneur and co-founder of CloudEats. This cloud kitchen serves approximately two million people in the Philippines and Vietnam, featuring 55 food and beverage brands. Before this, she gained experience in the traditional food and beverage sector and launched Boozy, a nationwide beverage delivery service.

Connection to Poverty

Digital tools in the Philippines can both alleviate and worsen poverty. High costs, weak infrastructure and limited digital skills block access for people experiencing poverty, leaving them unable to tap into opportunities in online work, education and financial inclusion. According to the 2024 Internet Poverty Index by the World Data Lab, the Philippines ranks 56th out of 169 nations in terms of internet poverty.

More than 18.33 million Filipinos (15.9% of the population) are unable to afford the third-highest internet plan, which is one gigabyte per month.

Barriers That Keep People With Low-Income Offline

Despite some progress on digital inclusion in the Philippines, key challenges remain. Infrastructure gaps, such as unreliable electricity and weak signal, hinder internet access for impoverished Filipino households. Additionally, high costs of data and devices relative to income pose a significant barrier.

Digital literacy remains another issue, as many struggle to leverage digital opportunities despite having access to them. Furthermore, there is a lack of coordination between ICT initiatives and poverty-alleviation programs.

Policy and NGO Solutions

Programs such as Free Wi-Fi for All, Tech4ED Centers and NGO initiatives teaching e-commerce skills aim to enhance digital access and alleviate poverty in the Philippines. The Free Wi-Fi for All program, managed by the Department of Information and Technology (DICT), offers free Wi-Fi hotspots across various municipalities, with approximately 11,475 facilities operational as of 2021.

USAID’s five-year Better Access and Connectivity (BEACON) project, launched in 2021, aims to improve digital connectivity in the Philippines. It supports community networks in delivering affordable internet to underserved areas. It also helps the government automate and digitize services to narrow the digital divide.

Digital inclusion in the Philippines is essential for providing opportunities rather than being viewed as a separate goal. Access to the internet, devices and digital skills is critical in combating poverty, with significant impacts on education and employment.

Bridging the Gap

The next frontier in the fight against poverty in the Philippines will not be waged solely in fields or classrooms, but also in the digital realm. With 97.5 million Filipinos, 83.8% of the population, already online at the start of 2025, the potential to harness technology for inclusive growth has never been greater. Yet, actual progress demands more than connectivity; it requires stronger investments in digital infrastructure, literacy and equitable access to ensure that no one is left behind.

By advancing digital inclusion in the Philippines, the nation can empower every Filipino to “log in” to opportunity. Digital inclusion in the Philippines helps bridge divides, fuel innovation and move toward a future where technology plays a central role in reducing poverty.

– Katelyn Leano

Katelyn is based in Plainfield, IL, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

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CBMS: Targeting Poverty More Effectively

CBMSThe Philippines’ Community-Based Monitoring System (CBMS) is a government-mandated, technology-driven framework for collecting and analyzing local poverty data across the country. It gathers disaggregated household information on health, nutrition, housing, education, employment, income and sanitation to give local governments a clearer picture of where and how poverty persists. Under the law, every city and municipality must maintain up-to-date data to guide local development planning and budgeting. Through mobile data collection tools, geo-tagging and community-based surveys, CBMS produces detailed poverty maps and indicators that strengthen decision-making at the local level.

How It Links to Anti-Poverty Goals

In the effort toward poverty alleviation, CBMS strengthens the connection between information and policy. Using digital data poverty mapping, the system enables local governments to identify poor and near-poor households with precision. This targeting helps ensure that social aid, infrastructure and livelihood programs reach those who need them most.

In Palawan, for example, CBMS data revealed pockets of food insecurity, poor sanitation and low school attendance in remote municipalities. Those findings allowed local authorities to reallocate funds and target assistance more effectively, replacing broad interventions with tailored strategies. This approach shows how tech-based poverty solutions in the Philippines can turn data into practical change, aligning limited government resources with measurable local needs.

Technology and Local Empowerment

CBMS also represents a model of participatory, technology-driven governance. Enumerators use digital tablets to collect and verify household data, while each family is geo-tagged for inclusion in poverty mapping systems. The CBMS model goes beyond data capture; it empowers local residents to take part in defining and validating the information gathered.

This local involvement increases accuracy and transparency. As one regional PSA official remarked, “Data is not just numbers… it is the voice of the people.” When communities help collect and interpret their own data, programs become more accountable and citizens can better advocate for services that reflect their realities.

Challenges and What Lies Ahead

Despite its progress, the CBMS initiative still faces challenges. Some local governments lack the staff or resources to maintain robust data systems, and recent data privacy concerns have highlighted the need for stronger safeguards. Yet the overall direction remains promising. The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) has announced plans to expand CBMS coverage, integrate it with national poverty databases and include Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) indicators, allowing policymakers to track both global and local progress in real time.

If fully implemented, CBMS could become a cornerstone of evidence-based poverty reduction. Indeed, by uniting technology, data, and community participation, the system is positioning the Philippines to deliver more precise, transparent and inclusive solutions to ensure that no community is left unseen in the country’s ongoing fight against poverty.

– George Horberry

George is based in York, UK and focuses on Technology and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Food ATMs: How Smart Dispensers Are Redefining Hunger Relief

Food ATMsIn narrow alleys and public markets of Quezon City, Philippines, glowing dispensers now operate under the city’s Paleng-QR Ph program, allowing residents to purchase or collect essentials through QR-enabled systems. Introduced and accelerated during the pandemic, these digital systems allow families to access essentials independently, without crowds or manual processing.

For thousands of families, it represents more than convenience; it’s peace of mind, knowing their family can eat without the stress of waiting or public scrutiny. Each quiet transaction is a small but meaningful reassurance in an unpredictable world.

What Are Food ATMs?

Food ATMs, sometimes called Grain ATMs, work like cash machines but dispense food instead of currency. Users authenticate with a biometric ID, smart card or QR pass and the machine releases a measured amount of grain based on eligibility. These systems are designed to prevent ration theft and eliminate the need for manual ledgers and oversight, making distribution more transparent and tamper-proof.

For many families, this means receiving their daily sustenance without anxiety or embarrassment, allowing them to focus on work, school and family life rather than waiting in long lines.

The Technology Behind Food ATMs

In India, the Annapurti Grain ATM can dispense up to 50 kilograms of grain within five minutes. It uses biometric verification and automation to reduce wait times by an estimated 70%, according to rollout reports from the state of Odisha. Machines are being adapted to run on solar power, making them functional even in regions with unstable electricity.

In the Philippines, the QR-based Paleng-QR initiative digitizes transactions in public markets, encouraging cashless and monitored distribution. For the families who rely on these systems, it means fewer hours spent waiting in queues and more certainty that their children will have food on the table. Each successful transaction offers a quiet reassurance that their daily needs are met efficiently and safely.

Global Expansion: Verified Examples

The concept of automated, dignity-focused resource distribution is spreading across regions:

  • India: Grain ATMs under public distribution reforms provide 24/7 access and reduce dependency on ration shops.
  • Kenya: Smart-card water ATMs in Nairobi slums allow users to access safe water at reduced cost and are available at any hour.
  • Philippines: The Paleng-QR digitization effort is part of a government-backed strategy to integrate QR authentication for everyday essentials.

The Quiet Revolution: Food Without Shame

Beyond speed and logistics, these machines challenge an age-old problem in aid distribution: public visibility and shame. Traditional food lines force recipients to wait in crowded spaces, often creating a sense of dependency and exposure. Automated, private collection allows families to receive aid quietly, preserving dignity.

Reports from digital aid pilots show increased participation when food access is available privately and without human gatekeepers. Parents and caregivers experience relief and confidence, knowing their families can receive essentials discreetly, allowing them to focus on daily life without fear of judgment. Each quiet visit to a food ATM reinforces autonomy and trust in the support system.

Challenges and Ethical Considerations

Digital systems require electricity, connectivity and maintenance, which are not always guaranteed in informal settlements or disaster-prone areas. Biometric or QR technologies risk excluding people without government IDs or mobile access. Moreover, digital records can raise privacy concerns, as transaction logs reveal when and how often people collect aid.

In response, some pilot systems are introducing offline verification modes and solar-powered units to reduce exclusion. Even small technical glitches can leave marginalized families without a meal or essential supplies, making reliable and inclusive access a matter that directly impacts their daily lives and dignity.

Closing

In Quezon City, digital access points are expanding through Paleng-QR. In India, the Grain ATM continues its rollout under public distribution reforms.

Families eat, students study and parents work, without the extra burden of food insecurity. Ultimately, food ATMs are not just dispensers but quiet tools of autonomy, dignity and transformative change.

– Diane Dunlop

Diane is based in Edmonton, Canada and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Vocational Training Centers in the Philippines

Vocational Training Centers in the PhilippinesRecent data from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) indicates a steady increase in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) enrollment from 2020 to 2024. Over the last five years, from 2020 to 2024, the TVET Sector in the Philippines has shown a “consistent upward trend” in both enrollment and graduation outcomes. During these five years, numerous TVET programs enrolled a “total of 6,549,726” Filipinos. Vocational education training centers in the Philippines are crucial for providing employable skills, reducing unemployment and creating new opportunities both domestically and internationally.

What Is Vocational Training?

Vocational training provides practical skills and information for specific jobs or trades, often through apprenticeships, technical schools or degree programs, while academic education focuses on theoretical knowledge. Today, the demand for vocational skills has never been higher. Approximately 94% of skilled trade workers report that their occupations are in demand among employers, while 89% claim they use modern technology.

History of Vocational Training in the Philippines

The Vocational Act of 1927 established vocational education training centers in the Philippines during the American colonial era. Subsequent laws, including Commonwealth Act No. 313 and Republic Act No. 3742, improved the system.

Also known as the “Technical Education and Skills Development Act of 1994,” the National Manpower and Youth Council (NMYC) and the Bureau of Technical and Vocational Education (BTVE), were combined to become TESDA by Republic Act No. 7796. President Fidel V. Ramos signed it into law on August 25, 1994, combining efforts in both technical and vocational education training.

Role of TESDA

The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in the Philippines is crucial for managing technical education and skills development. It establishes national standards, regulates educational institutions and implements training programs to improve job readiness, promote social justice and meet global market demands. TESDA aims to provide quality technical education and certification programs to Filipinos, alleviate global poverty, create job opportunities and boost global competitiveness through technical and vocational education and training (TVET).

Types of Vocational Training Centers in the Philippines

There are six different types of vocational training centers in the Philippines, including government-run centers, TESDA training centers, local government initiatives, private institutions, accredited technical-vocational schools, industry-partnered training centers and community-based training.

TESDA Technology Institutions are made up of 125 schools, regional, provincial and specialized training schools across the country that provide direct training for TESDA. Examples of these training centers include the MFI Technological Institute, located in Pasig City and the Quickskills Training Center in Manila.

Courses and Programs Offered

TESDA offers a wide range of courses and programs to fulfill the demands of specific industries in the Philippines. It frequently provides courses in automotive, welding, electrical installation, caregiving, hospitality and information and communication technology (ICT). There are also new programs in renewable energy systems, animation, digital marketing and e-commerce. There is a complete list of available courses individuals can take on the TESDA website, ranging from 2D animation, all the way to health care-related courses such as nursing.

Poverty and Unemployment in the Philippines

Vocational education training centers in the Philippines can help break the cycle of poverty and unemployment by providing essential skills for better-paying formal jobs. Lack of education and skills leads to worse labor market outcomes, and these centers help individuals move beyond low-wage temporary jobs, improving employment and earnings potential.

The government is working to train Filipino workers for higher-skilled positions, such as in analytics and artificial intelligence, software development and security and business process management, through a new program funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB). It aims to expand the number of formal jobs in the private sector by “an average of 600,000 to 700,000 jobs” per year.

Impact on Employment and the Economy

Vocational education training centers in the Philippines improve job outcomes by equipping students with in-demand skills, leading to graduates working in major industries like construction, hospitality and health care, which reduces unemployment and promotes small business growth and improves the economy as a whole.

According to TESDA’s 2022 Study on the Employment of TVET Graduates, the average employment rate for TVET graduates over the last five years is 74.76, which equates to about seven out of every 10 TVET graduates being employed at the time of the survey.

Challenges That Vocational Training Centers Face

Vocational education training centers in the Philippines face challenges like inadequate funding, outdated technology and inconsistent teaching quality, particularly in rural areas. Many consider technical-vocational education inferior to college degrees, hindering enrollment and accessibility.

The government is enhancing accessibility, relevance, and employment outcomes through TESDA initiatives like the Eight-Point Agenda and the National Technical Education and Skills Development Plan (NTESDP), while promoting private sector engagement for better training programs.

Innovations and Technology

The Philippines is enhancing its vocational training through online courses, mobile labs and updated curricula in fields such as renewable energy and robotics, thereby closing the skills gap and preparing Filipinos for both domestic and international job markets.

By introducing innovative approaches such as welding simulation, robotics integration and computer-aided design, TESDA is preparing learners for industries that are being shifted by automation, artificial intelligence and digital transformation. TESDA has enrolled more than 5 million learners since 2022, with approximately 4.5 million graduates. Many of them have gained national certifications, which have helped them find jobs overseas.

Future of Vocational Training in the Philippines

The Philippines plans to enhance vocational training through public-private partnerships and technical-vocational programs in senior high school courses, focusing on digital tools and industry skills to make it a viable career option.

The National Technical Education and Skills Development Plan (NTESDP) for 2023-2028 aims to offer Filipinos lifelong learning opportunities and innovative skills through future-ready TVET programs, improved higher education, partnerships with NGAs, technical-vocational institutions and Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), such as universities and colleges.

TVET programs must strengthen their position as a vital access, inclusion and mobility vehicle in the country, creating economic opportunities for individuals experiencing poverty, geographical and cultural isolation and physical disadvantages. They should assist the transition to green, digital and knowledge economies, as well as advocate for flexible educational pathways and recognition of talents acquired outside of the classroom.

Conclusion

Vocational education training centers in the Philippines play an essential role in providing millions of Filipinos with important skills for today’s labor market. If the government, businesses and communities are able to work together to invest more resources, reduce stigma and increase access, every Filipino may be able to take advantage of these opportunities and contribute to the country’s development and economic growth.

– Katelyn Leano

Katelyn is based in Plainfield, IL, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

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Fighting Malnutrition in the Philippines with Biofortified Rice

Malnutrition in the PhilippinesIn the Philippines, where rice is a staple food eaten daily by most households, Vitamin A deficiency continues to affect children’s health. This deficiency can lead to blindness, stunted growth and higher rates of illness. To combat this, researchers and development partners are fighting malnutrition in the Philippines with biofortified rice. Also known as Golden Rice, this biofortified variety is rich with Vitamin A. By adding vital nutrients directly into the staple diet, Golden Rice has the potential to improve nutrition for millions of low-income families.

Partnerships Bringing Nutrition to Families

The Philippine Department of Agriculture in collaboration with the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) leads the rollout of biofortified rice and the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), which is based in Los Baños, Laguna [3]. Together, these organisations have spent over a decade developing a variety of rice that not only grows well in local conditions but also delivers meaningful levels of Vitamin A.

Support has also come from global initiatives such as HarvestPlus, part of the CGIAR research partnership, which specialises in promoting biofortified crops [4]. Through training, seed distribution and farmer support, HarvestPlus and its partners are ensuring that Golden Rice reaches the communities most at risk of malnutrition.

Reaching Communities in Need

The first planting of biofortified rice in the Philippines began in 2022 in provinces with the highest rates of Vitamin A deficiency. PhilRice has distributed seed to local farmers and provided training on cultivation, while IRRI has worked alongside government agencies to monitor yields and nutritional outcomes, Reuters reports. The Department of Agriculture has committed to scaling up production nationwide, aiming to integrate Golden Rice into school feeding programmes and rural markets.

For families who cannot afford vegetables, meat or dairy on a regular basis, Golden Rice provides a low-cost way to improve diets and reduce poverty-linked illness. Studies show that just one cup of cooked Golden Rice can provide up to 30–50% of a child’s daily Vitamin A requirement.

A Model for Future Biofortification

Golden Rice is part of a broader movement to use biofortification to combat “hidden hunger.” Alongside Vitamin A-enriched rice, IRRI and HarvestPlus are supporting the development of zinc-biofortified rice and iron-rich crops for the region, Science reports. These innovations aim to strengthen food security and health without requiring major changes to eating habits. The hope is that biofortified crops could quickly become a trusted part of the Filipino diet, helping to reduce child malnutrition across the country.

A Brighter Future for Children

Fighting malnutrition in the Philippines with biofortified rice demonstrates how science and partnerships can deliver solutions to some of the world’s most pressing health challenges. By working together, PhilRice, IRRI, HarvestPlus and the Department of Agriculture are transforming a staple food into a life-saving tool.

As the program expands, millions of Filipino children stand to gain stronger immune systems, better vision and healthier growth. For families living in poverty, biofortified rice in the Philippines represents hope for a healthier future.

– Robert Darke

Robert is based in London, UK and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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First Elections in BARMM: A Test of Peace in the Philippines

BARMMIn the Philippines, the southern region of Bangsamoro, also known as the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), is holding its first official elections under a parliamentary setup on Oct. 13, 2025. These elections are important for the peace and prosperity of the Philippines and its southern region. However, the region has a history of volatility and the May 2025 general midterm elections were marked by significant violent political activity.

As reported by the United States Institute of Peace (USIP), the once-militant faction, Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), which formerly clashed with the Philippines’ other governing authorities, has been making efforts to uphold a ceasefire. The group is also working to maintain peace in the region.

Election Violence and Security Concerns

While election violence almost doubled this year, the conditions for a ceasefire in BARMM have still technically been upheld. This gives hope for the upcoming elections, thanks largely to MILF and BARMM working toward peace. Both the government and MILF combatants formed the Joint Quick Response Team and have worked together to disarm and de-escalate violence in the region.

According to the University of the Philippines, while the country is striving toward a more integrated democratic nation, different forces have been attempting to coerce communities to vote a certain way through gun violence. Although official checkpoints have been established to confiscate firearms, rogue groups have set up their own checkpoints and even government officials are suspected of favoritism in how they follow through on checkpoints.

Global Implications and the Road Ahead

American organizations, such as the USIP, have been assisting in these areas. They credit MILF with striving to uphold peace and serving as an example of once-hostile forces working together toward a common goal. While the May midterms did not go as well as expected, there is hope that the October primaries will be both successful and less bloody. The fight for peace in the Philippines has been tenuous and how things will fare remains to be seen.

MILF created an agreement with the government in the late ’90s and early 2000s. The group has faithfully upheld its agreement and acted as an agent for peace in an otherwise volatile region. The Philippines could use more aid from countries like the U.S. and Japan, but the security of the whole Pacific region relies on the success of these upcoming elections.

Final Remarks

If this election is successful, it will be a step in the right direction for the Philippines as a democratic nation. It is of particular interest to countries like the U.S. and Japan in the fight against China’s push for control in Asia. As the Philippines becomes more secure, its economy is bound to thrive, poverty will decrease and it will become a more active member of the international political community. This hoped-for “unification” in the Philippines, while still showing signs of resistance in the area, promises to make the Philippines an “investment destination.”

The commitment of groups like MILF and USIP reflects optimism that maintaining peace in these volatile regions will lead to a better life for everyone involved. However, the history of the BARMM region casts considerable doubt on the future of the southern Philippines and its ability to move forward peacefully. Still, BARMM is working toward peace and the region’s future may be studied in textbooks for years to come.

– Gregory Walker

Gregory is based in York, PA, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Philippines’ Nurse Migration is Fueling a Health Care Crisis

Philippines' nurse migrationThe Philippines is the world’s leading exporter of nurses. While Filipinos account for only 1% of the U.S. population, they comprise 4% of the nursing workforce. Although the U.S. has relied on the heroic contributions of Filipino nurses for centuries, their continuous migration is fueling a crisis at home. Hospitals and clinics across the Philippines struggle with staff shortages and the country’s continued nurse migration has gradually widened the global health care gap.

Brain Drain of Nurses

“Brain drain” refers to the mass emigration of the most highly educated or skilled individuals from a particular country. For many developing countries, the inability to retain such professionals across various sectors, due to sociopolitical or economic factors, can trigger a cyclical downfall of infrastructure and human capital. In the Philippines, decades of nurse migration to the U.S. have resulted in a catastrophic shortage.

The Department of Health sets a standard 1:12 Nurse-to-Patient Ratio. In the Philippines, the ratio regularly stands at 1:20 and has even escalated to 1:50. The nation faces a nurse shortage of roughly 127,000 nurses, with nearly 4,500 posts at public hospitals remaining unfilled, a figure expected to rise to 250,000 by 2030.

Many Filipino nurses are emigrating to the U.S. due to poor working conditions at home, leaving the nation’s health care system understaffed and worsening nurse burnout. While a series of mental health programs and interventions have been suggested as a way to remediate this threat, the problem seems to stem from several structural challenges.

Most notably, these include extremely low salaries, heavy and imbalanced workload and hours, job insecurity and a common delay in the disbursement of benefits. All of this plagues the Philippine health care system amid rising costs of living, inflation, economic hardship and a tense political climate, fueling pressing issues both domestically and geopolitically.

Solution-Oriented Policies and Strategies

The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) has approved many new programs and state universities aim to expand access to medical education, especially for those in the country’s underserved regions. The Medical Scholarship and Return Service Program (MSRS), also known as the Doktor Para sa Bayan Act, is an example of an initiative recently signed into Filipino law to fund medical education in exchange for mandatory local service upon graduation.

The program provides full tuition coverage along with allowances for textbooks, housing, uniforms, transportation, medical insurance and other related expenses. Each year they receive the scholarship, scholars must work for at least one year in hospitals or public health offices in their hometowns or other underserved areas. Students from indigenous, geographically isolated, disadvantaged, or understaffed regions are given priority.

The CHED and the Department of Health implement the program as a direct response to the shortage of medical professionals in such underserved areas. It aims to increase the number of available and qualified health professionals in these areas.

As part of a retention evaluation, the Philippines is also making concerted efforts to address burnout and recruiting practices. The country has begun to mobilize resources and improve policies so that working and living conditions for these nurses are sufficient in their home country. Increasing salaries, providing benefits on time and encouraging and incentivizing filling vacant government positions, particularly in underserved regions, are all critical steps towards change. House Bill No. 5276 and Senate Bill No. 2694 are two examples of proposed legislation to reduce nurse migration and the resulting “brain drain” in the Philippines. Both seek to amend Filipino nursing laws to raise nurses’ monthly basic salary and minimum salary grade.

Organizations Supporting Filipino Nurses at Home and Abroad

Countless organizations also focus on mitigating the Philippines’ nurse migration and brain drain crisis. The Philippine Nurses Association (PNA) is the Philippines’ national organization of nurses, promoting high standards of practice and supporting the welfare of Filipino nurses. Filipino Nurses United (FNU) and The Philippine Nurses Association of America (PNAA) are organizations assisting Filipino nurses based in the U.S.

In addition to facilitating networking and professional development, these organizations advocate for labor rights, social justice and fair working conditions. While addressing domestic retention problems to reduce emigration, ensuring support for Filipino nurses overseas remains crucial.

Filipino nurses in the U.S. often send a large portion of their earnings back home in remittances. Maintaining a higher retention rate for those working abroad helps sustain this economic support, which funds education, local investments and small businesses in the Philippines.

Well-supported Filipino nurses in the U.S. are also more likely to return periodically to assist in their home country. They may donate supplies or share advanced medical knowledge with their communities. These contributions help counter the effects of “brain drain.”

– Kaitlin Reed

Kaitlin is based in Austin, TX, USA and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Child Soldiers in the Philippines

The Child Soldiers in the Philippines Despite widespread agreement that the use of child soldiers must end, the United Nations (U.N.) reported ongoing violations in dozens of countries in 2024. While 173 countries have ratified the Optional Protocol on the involvement of children in armed conflict, grave violations—including the recruitment and use of child soldiers—persist in conflict zones worldwide. Some countries, like the Philippines, have made significant progress in reducing violations. With support from the U.N., the Philippine government nearly halved its total number of violations and took major steps to address the widespread presence of non-state military groups such as the New People’s Army (NPA), the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and their use of child soldiers in the Philippines.

Non-State Sanctioned Military Groups

Regardless of the year, the NPA has more often than not been responsible for the highest number of violations, reportedly accounting for 40% and 41% of the total in 2022 and 2024, respectively. The majority of the remaining violations were spread somewhat evenly among the other groups, though the Dawlah Islamiyah-Maute Group and the Armed Forces of the Philippines stand out as repeat offenders. As one may notice, the Armed Forces of the Philippines is a state military force, showing the government is not entirely free from blame; however, this group also showed the greatest reduction in violations, dropping from 21 in 2021 to 12 in 2023. In contrast, the Dawlah Islamiyah-Maute Group more than quadrupled its violations, rising from two to nine.

The Acts

Overall, the most common and consistent violations were killing and maiming, recruitment and attacks on schools, which together made up just under 95% of total violations in 2024; 43% in killing and maiming, 38% in recruitment and 12% in attacks on schools. The remaining 7% consisted of sexual misconduct, abductions and denial of humanitarian access. The acts were generally split evenly between areas, with one standout case of a disproportionate number (53%) of violations taking place in Mindanao, the second largest of the Philippine islands and one of the most populated islands in the world.

Looking Ahead

In 2021, the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.N. signed a strategic plan in order to improve conditions and lower the number of violations of child rights. There are now more than 3,100 trained child protection actors throughout the country. Furthermore, some regions have even established a regional reporting system so that civilians can alert authorities to violations. These, along with the 2019 issuance of the child protection policy by the Philippine police, have started great advances in Philippine child rights, with the data supporting the fact that the plan is showing results and reducing the number of child soldiers in the Philippines.

– Seth Christopher

Seth is based in Baltimore, MD, USA and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr