Country Profile: Philippines

Initial Information for Employers in Europe Considering Recruitment of Skilled Workers

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  • Form of government: Presidential republic
  • Area: approx. 300,000 km² (archipelago of over 7,000 islands)
  • Population: approx. 117 million (as of 2024)
  • Capital: Manila (Metropolitan Area: approx. 13 million inhabitants)
  • Economy: Emerging economy with strong service and care sectors
  • Time zone: GMT+8
  • Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP)
  • Demographics: Very young population — about 60% are under the age of 30
  • Migration: The Philippines has a long tradition of labor migration — many professionals work abroad, particularly in care and service sectors
  • Urbanization: High proportion of urban population; educational institutions are concentrated in metropolitan areas such as Manila, Cebu, and Davao
  • Official languages: Filipino (based on Tagalog) and English
  • English: Widely spoken and deeply integrated into education, media, and professional life
  • German: Typically learned through targeted migration preparation (A2–B1 levels)
  • Majority religion: Christianity (over 90%, with approx. 80% Roman Catholic)
  • Other religions: Islam, Protestantism, indigenous belief systems
  • Religious influence: Christian values such as community, discipline, and helpfulness are reflected in the professional behavior of many workers
  • General education: 13-year school system with completion at Senior High School; high enrollment and graduation rates
  • Higher education & vocational training: Well-developed university and college system, especially in nursing, tourism, hospitality, and social work
  • Nursing education: Internationally recognized, particularly in care professions (often English-language, WHO-compliant)
  • Quality level: Many graduates have international work or internship experience
  • Work ethic: Strong service orientation, teamwork, friendliness, and willingness to adapt
  • Hierarchy: Respectful, but open to Western leadership styles
  • Communication: Direct and friendly; English skills enable smooth communication
  • Migration experience: Accustomed to multicultural environments; low cultural entry barriers in Europe
  • High integration capacity: Due to cultural and religious proximity to Europe (e.g., Catholic worldview), integration tends to be easier
  • Nursing & hospitality staff: Highly sought-after; strong work ethic and resilience
  • Language skills: Excellent English proficiency; targeted German language training before departure (A2–B1)
  • Preparation: Highly cooperative authorities and recruitment agencies in the country of origin

The Philippines is a proven partner country for the recruitment of qualified and loyal professionals — especially in nursing, gastronomy, hospitality, and customer service.
Excellent English skills, strong professional training, and high social competence make Filipino professionals a valuable resource for European employers.

Philippines