Country Profile: Philippines
Initial Information for Employers in Europe Considering Recruitment of Skilled Workers

- 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.