Factors associated with full employment in the Philippines

Date

2013-03

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Abstract

Despite respectable economic growth in recent years, underemployment and unemployment remain critical problems in the Philippines. Most studies on labor markets are concerned with factors associated with underemployment and unemployment. Instead, we aim to focus on identifying the determinants of full employment. Focusing on full employment allows us to see the factors that prevent the labor market from being flexible and productive. To this end, we analyze data from the 2011 Labor Force Survey (LFS) using regression analysis. Our results suggest that the probability of being fully employed varies with educational attainment, age, sector of employment, class of worker, nature of employment, and marital status. A policy implication of our study is to make quality education more accessible to everyone, especially the less privileged members of the labor force. Creating permanent, salaried jobs appears to be a key factor in improving labor productivity and job satisfaction. Aiming for full employment will be good for poverty alleviation and inclusive growth.

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Keywords

Full employment, Economic growth, Underemployment, Unemployed

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