Unemployment in CAR rose to 2.9% in Jan. 2025 - DOLE data

Tabuk City, Kalinga - The number of people in the Cordillera with no jobs increased this year, according to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) data. 

The unemployment rate in the region rose to 2.9 percent in January 2025 from 2.3 percent in October 2024. 

DOLE also noted a slight decrease in the region’s working population. From 1.295 million last year, it went down to 1.292 million this year.

What does the data mean for the region?  

The drop in employment and rise in unemployment can affect many families in the region. With fewer people working, more households may struggle to pay for food, school needs, and daily expenses. Businesses may also feel the impact as people spend less money. If this continues, it could slow down the local economy and make it harder for job seekers to find work. 

Why does the issue matter?

A lower employment rate means fewer people have jobs, while a higher unemployment rate means more people are actively looking for work but can’t find any. The data from the DOLE suggests that job opportunities may be shrinking in the region. 

The figures serve as a call to action for government units (LGUs), national line agencies, and the private sector to take action by creating more jobs, improving skills training, and supporting small businesses. 

If the issues are not addressed, the regions’ poverty rate also tends to increase, especially if the cost of basic goods rises faster than wages. This would leave many families struggling to meet their essential needs.