Everyday, thousands of Filipinos leave the country to work abroad, aiming to support their families back home. We call them overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), though the term “bagong bayani” (modern-day heroes) is also fitting — as it alludes to their hard work, sacrifice, and dedication.
Today, there are millions of OFWs around the world. In 2024 alone, records from the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) show that over 1.8 million Filipinos were deployed in land-based jobs abroad. Of these, majority went to the following countries: Saudi Arabia, UAE, Singapore, Hong Kong, Qatar, Taiwan, Kuwait, Japan, Malaysia, and South Korea.
Saudi Arabia
According to DMW records, more than 419,000 Filipinos were deployed to Saudi Arabia in 2024. Thanks to its booming oil, construction, and healthcare industries, the Kingdom continuously hires engineers, construction workers, and nurses. Furthermore, many OFWs come here to pursue domestic work, hospitality jobs, and retail/service opportunities.
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
In the same year, over 303,000 Filipinos arrived in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to work as doctors, nurses, teachers, engineers, sales executives, and more. There’s also a high demand for domestic workers, drivers, construction workers, and different types of skilled workers. Notably, people from all over the world come to the UAE, seeking career opportunities and becoming part of a vibrant and diverse community.
Singapore
As a neighboring country, Singapore is a top choice among OFWs, with more than 195,000 Filipinos getting deployed here two years ago. As a global hub for business, tourism, IT, healthcare, construction, and other industries, this country attracts Filipinos and other nationalities, as well.
Hong Kong
By the end of 2024, over 166,000 OFWs had arrived in Hong Kong to work as caregivers, household helpers, and hospitality/service workers. Today, there is a huge Filipino community in Hong Kong, which has a continuously high demand for people who can render domestic work and elderly care.
Qatar
The next country on the list is Qatar, where more than 143,000 Filipinos were deployed a couple of years ago. With its ongoing infrastructure and development projects, the country is a top destination for engineers, construction workers, and those in the skilled trades. Many OFWs also come here to pursue jobs in healthcare, hospitality, and transportation.
Taiwan
Since Taiwan is situated just north of the Philippines, it is not surprising that many Filipinos decide to work here. The country has a thriving manufacturing industry, so many OFWs get hired as factory workers. Moreover, Taiwan offers plenty of opportunities in the fields of construction, domestic services, healthcare, and hospitality.
Kuwait
DMW records indicate that over 76,000 OFWs were deployed to Kuwait in 2024. Many of them are hired as domestic workers, drivers, construction workers, doctors, nurses, and workers in the skilled trades.
Japan
Also in 2024, almost 50,000 Filipinos came to work in Japan. Most are hired as nurses and caregivers, although a huge number also work in agriculture, construction, food processing, manufacturing, hospitality, and other fields. Interestingly, the DMW implements the Technical Intern Training Program (TITP) and the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) Program, both of which make it easier for Filipino workers to come to Japan.
Malaysia
For those who prefer to stay closer to home, working in Malaysia is a good option. Two years back, almost 29,000 Filipinos arrived here to pursue jobs in construction, manufacturing, agriculture, food services, hospitality, and domestic work.
South Korea
Last, but not the least, there’s South Korea, where just over 28,000 OFWs were deployed in 2024. This number includes those who got hired under the Seasonal Worker Program. In addition, there are other government-to-government programs that make it easier for Filipinos to come and work in agriculture, construction, manufacturing, and other fields.
When it comes to working abroad, these countries — which are mostly in Asia and the Middle East — are the top destinations for many Filipinos. Thanks to their thriving economies and numerous job opportunities, these places are bound to attract more OFWs who are dreaming of providing a bright future for their loved ones.
Before leaving the Philippines, OFWs are required to attend the Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS), so they can better prepare for living and working abroad. Read this guide for more details about this mandatory seminar.
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