11 Million Filipinos jobless in 2008; thousands more in next 6 months

Long before the financial crisis that is sweeping around the world, the Philippines has had its share of economic woes and a loss of confidence in the government. There was a glimmer of hope in early 2008, when the Philippine economy showed signs of improving. One year later and the picture looks gloomier.

A Philippine research group reported that at least 10.7 million Filipinos went jobless in 2008, and these estimates could be lower than the actual count.

And to add fuel to the fire, the Philippine Department of Labor and Employment estimated that more than 250,000 Filipinos will be laid-off in the next six months. The department already counted more than 30,000 unemployed since December 2008.

The picture is dismal enough, but knowing the Filipino spirit, we will get through this, one day at a time. Resilience is one thing we’re known for, and laughing in the face of adversity keeps us sane. As long as we don’t give up or get depressed, Filipinos can find some form of employment or somehow bring food to the table, even if it’s only rice and soy sauce. So, hang in there.