Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) continue to be a vital force in the global workforce, contributing significantly to the Philippine economy through remittances and skills transfer. As of the most recent data, millions of Filipinos are employed abroad, with their distribution reflecting both traditional and emerging labor markets.
This article examines the top countries employing Filipino OFWs, supported by the latest statistics and credible data, and offers insights into trends shaping the global deployment of Filipino talent.
OFW global distribution: key statistics and data
According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), in 2023, Asia remained the leading destination for OFWs, accounting for approximately 77.4% of the total OFW population. The Middle East, particularly Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, continues to dominate as the primary region for Filipino migrant workers. Europe, the Americas, and Oceania are also significant markets, with growing opportunities for skilled professionals.
- Saudi Arabia: 23.0% of total OFWs
- United Arab Emirates (UAE): 13.7% of total OFWs
- Other Asian countries (Hong Kong, Singapore, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman): substantial shares
- Europe: 9.0% of total OFWs (United Kingdom as a major destination)
- North and South America: 6.3% (notably the United States)
- Australia: 2.9%
- Africa: 1.0%
These figures highlight that the Middle East and Asia collectively employ the majority of OFWs, while Europe, the Americas, and Oceania are expanding their demand for Filipino talent.
Top countries employing Filipino OFWs
| Country | Region | OFW Share (%) | Main Sectors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saudi Arabia | Middle East | 23.0 | Construction, Healthcare, Domestic Work |
| United Arab Emirates | Middle East | 13.7 | Hospitality, Healthcare, Construction, Retail |
| Hong Kong | Asia | Significant | Domestic Work, Services |
| Singapore | Asia | Significant | Services, Manufacturing, Construction |
| Kuwait | Middle East | Significant | Domestic Work, Healthcare |
| Qatar | Middle East | Significant | Construction, Hospitality |
| Bahrain | Middle East | Significant | Services, Healthcare |
| Oman | Middle East | Emerging | Construction, Services |
| United Kingdom | Europe | 9.0 (Europe total) | Healthcare (Nurses), Services |
| United States | Americas | Part of 6.3 (Americas total) | Healthcare, IT, Services |
| Australia | Oceania | 2.9 | Healthcare, Construction, IT |
| New Zealand | Oceania | Emerging | Healthcare, Construction, Hospitality |
| Japan | Asia | Emerging | Manufacturing, Healthcare, Technology |
| Germany | Europe | Emerging | Healthcare, IT, Engineering |
Emerging destinations and trends
Recent bilateral meetings and labor agreements have opened new opportunities for OFWs in non-traditional destinations. In 2025, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) reported that countries such as Finland, the Bahamas, Oman, Jordan, Egypt, Indonesia, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Libya are actively seeking Filipino skilled workers, especially in the healthcare, hospitality, and construction sectors. This expansion reflects the global recognition of Filipino workers’ professionalism and adaptability.
Sectoral demand for OFWs
The demand for Filipino workers is highest in the following sectors:
- Healthcare (nurses, caregivers, medical technicians)
- Construction (engineers, skilled laborers, foremen)
- Hospitality (hotel staff, chefs, service crew)
- Domestic work (household helpers, nannies)
- Information Technology (IT specialists, programmers)
- Manufacturing (factory workers, machine operators)
Countries like the United Kingdom, Germany, and Canada are particularly noted for their high demand for healthcare professionals, while the Middle East remains dominant in construction and domestic work.
OFW remittances and economic impact
In 2023, OFW remittances reached an estimated $36 billion, accounting for about 9% of the Philippines’ GDP. These remittances play a crucial role in supporting millions of Filipino families, funding education, healthcare, and small businesses, and driving local economic growth.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates continue to be the top employers of Filipino OFWs, followed by countries in Asia, Europe, the Americas, and Oceania. The evolving global labor market is creating new opportunities in emerging destinations, particularly for skilled professionals in healthcare, construction, and hospitality. As the world economy adapts to new challenges, the resilience and global reputation of Filipino workers ensure their continued demand and vital contribution abroad.