PHILIPPINES TOPS ASIA IN WOMEN’S EDUCATION BUT LAGS IN EMPLOYMENT

The Philippines leads Asia in female educational attainment, with women more likely than men to finish high school and attend college, but these gains have not fully translated into workforce participation.

According to the 2023 UNDP Gender Inequality Index, the country ranked 86th globally, reflecting disparities in labor participation, reproductive health, and empowerment.

Female labor force participation in the Philippines was 49.9 percent in 2024, significantly lower than that of men at 72.3 percent and behind regional neighbors like Thailand and Vietnam.

Experts note that despite high enrollment rates, women remain underrepresented in the labor market, creating a paradox between education and employment.

Compared with Indonesia, the Philippines performs slightly better, but it lags far behind countries such as China, Thailand, and Vietnam in female labor participation and overall gender equality.

Source: PhilNews24 | March 8, 2026