Statement: The Presidential Spokesperson on the first quarter 2015 SWS survey on adult joblessness

Statement of Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda on the first quarter 2015 SWS survey on adult joblessness:

Joblessness down, optimism up

[Released on April 29, 2015]

The most recent survey released by the SWS, covering the first quarter of 2015, shows that adult joblessness in the country has fallen drastically to 19.1%, down from 27% last December 2014. This is consistent with the results of the January 2015 Labor Force Survey, which also indicated a decrease in unemployment. The SWS survey also noted an increase in job availability optimism, with 38% of adults—up from the 36% recorded in the last quarter of 2014—saying that the number of available jobs will increase in the next 12 months.

As the President has repeatedly said, the Filipino people are our nation’s greatest resource. Along with the administration’s reforms, it is their characteristic optimism and diligence that has attracted increased investor confidence in the country, thereby boosting our economy and opening up greater opportunities for our citizens. This virtuous cycle of growth and empowerment is evident in figures such as this, which show the cumulative effect of gains we have achieved in recent years.

Moving forward, the administration is committed to continue treading the straight path of governance. As the past few years have shown, reforms lead to increased investments, which in turn lead to more and better livelihoods for our people. The well-being of each Filipino individual is of utmost importance to the Aquino government, and it is this concern that continues to inspire us as we press toward our goal of a more inclusive and prosperous nation.