Population Institute

ABSTRACT

Despite their contribution to economic development, majority of internal migrant workers in the Philippines are earning low incomes in low-skilled jobs and face precarious work conditions. For some, the distance of internal migration from their immediate previous residence is another source of vulnerability, highlighting their need to access social protection in their current residence.

This study investigated internal migrant workers’ access to formal social protection programs by examining its relationship to the conditions of the workers’ employment. Statistical tests and binary logistic regression of 12 employment, migration, and socio-demographic predictor variables were conducted using data from the nationally-representative 2018 National Migration Survey of the Philippines. The study found that internal migrant workers’ nature of employment, current industry, income level, educational level, marital status, and distance of internal migration influence participation in formal social protection programs. Those in agriculture, forestry, and fishery, where low incomes dominate, face the lowest odds of participation. Some internal migrant workers who, by law, should receive social protection benefits do not receive any. Enhanced capacity of government for monitoring compliance with labor laws and standards, including the provision of correct non-wage benefits, can help extend social protection coverage to these workers. Educating workers about the relevant labor laws and standards and non-wage benefits due them is also key to combatting unlawful labor practices that exclude workers from formal social protection programs. To workers whose low and unsteady income hinder them from participating in said programs, alternative social protection programs need to be made available and accessible.