One in Three Filipino Workers Already Feel Burned Out Mid-Year, Study Reveals

A growing number of Filipino employees are experiencing burnout long before the year reaches its final stretch, according to a nationwide study conducted by Agile Data Solutions Inc. The survey highlights an alarming trend: while many workers remain satisfied with their careers, an increasing number are struggling to maintain a healthy balance between work and personal life.

The study, conducted through Hustle PH, surveyed 1,111 working Filipinos across the country. It found that one in three respondents already describes themselves as generally or completely exhausted halfway through the year. Although 84% said they are satisfied with their careers, 60% believe their professional growth has stalled, with many only beginning to feel "stuck" within the past month.

One of the report's most significant findings is that burnout is not primarily caused by heavy workloads. Instead, employees say they are exhausted because work leaves little room for family, hobbies, rest, and personal time. Difficulty maintaining work-life balance ranked as the leading cause of burnout, surpassing concerns about salary, workload, management, and unclear direction from supervisors.

The effects are becoming increasingly visible. Nearly half of the respondents reported experiencing physical symptoms such as headaches and body pain, while one in four admitted that work-related thoughts regularly disrupt their sleep. These findings suggest that the pressures of modern work extend far beyond office hours.

The study also reveals a growing desire among Filipinos to seek alternative career paths. Nearly 79% have considered changing careers during the past six months, while 45% are already taking concrete steps toward making that change. Interestingly, entrepreneurship emerged as the most attractive option, ahead of switching companies, freelancing, or pursuing promotions. Workers cited better career growth and improved work-life balance as their primary motivations for seeking change.

However, financial obligations remain the biggest obstacle. More than one-third of respondents said the need for stable income prevents them from pursuing new opportunities, highlighting the difficult balance between career satisfaction and financial security.

Burnout is also beginning to affect workplace performance. One in three employees admitted they sometimes perform only the minimum required at work, while one in four said their productivity has declined compared to the beginning of the year. Personal issues outside the workplace were identified as the leading reason for this decrease in motivation.

Despite these challenges, optimism remains strong. Four out of five Filipino workers still feel hopeful about the second half of the year. The study suggests that employers can better support their workforce by offering competitive compensation, clearer career advancement opportunities, flexible work arrangements, and policies that enable employees to achieve a healthier work-life balance. Creating workplaces that value both productivity and personal well-being may be the key to reducing burnout and retaining talent in the months ahead.

Aprio Expands Philippine Presence With New Manila Office

Manila, Philippines — Aprio, the 24th largest business advisory and accounting firm in the U.S., has expanded its presence in the Philippines with the opening of its second office in Makati City.

Aprio's new office is located at KMC One Ayala Mall in Makati City, placing the company in Metro Manila's primary business district. It is designed to support Aprio Philippines' expanding workforce and enhanced service delivery, ensuring scalable capacity for future growth while providing a more accessible workspace for its over 100 employees in Metro Manila.

“Aprio Philippines' rapid expansion, showcased with our new, strategically located office in Makati City, underscores our commitment to both our global clients and our Philippine team. This growth reflects the increasing demand for international talent and for scalable, end-to-end service delivery across Aprio's global network. By investing in our local office, we are not just expanding capacity, but we are strengthening collaboration and positioning Aprio to lead the next era of global transformation for our clients," said Dave Kothari, Global Solutions Delivery Leader and Partner at Aprio.

Since opening its flagship office in Clark Global City in April 2022, Aprio has rapidly grown its workforce from 75 to 400 by year-end, recording an impressive 525% increase. Aprio Philippines' teams support services across tax, advisory, assurance, wealth management, and business operations, focusing on analytics, technology adoption, compliance modernization, and workflow optimization.

To learn more about Aprio Philippines, you may visit www.aprio.com/locations/philippines/ or its Facebook page.

Instructure Named to 2025 GSV 150 List of Most Transformational Growth Companies in Digital Learning and Workforce Skills

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Instructure, the maker of Canvas LMS, announces that it has been named to the prestigious 2025 GSV 150. This coveted list, compiled by Global Silicon Valley (GSV), highlights the 150 most transformational growth companies in digital learning and workforce skills shaping the future of education worldwide.

Selected from over 2,500 global companies, the GSV 150 list recognizes companies making significant contributions and innovative solutions that enhance learning outcomes, drive educational accessibility, and equip learners globally with essential 21st-century skills. To select the GSV 150, GSV evaluated companies across five key factors: revenue scale, revenue growth, user reach, geographic diversification, and margin profile. The 2025 cohort of the GSV 150 collectively reaches three billion learners and generates over $25 billion in annual revenue.

"We are honored to be recognized as a transformational company in this year’s GSV 150," said Steve Daly, CEO of Instructure. "This acknowledgment reflects our commitment to reimagining the technologies that turn teaching and learning into opportunities. As the education landscape evolves, we’re focused on ensuring the learner is ready for the next stage of the learning journey."

Selection to the GSV 150 highlights companies demonstrating strong growth potential, scalability, and the capacity to positively impact the future of learning and work. Instructure’s inclusion in the GSV 150 coincides with its participation in the ASU+GSV Summit in April, an event focused on innovation in education.

In addition, GSV honored two Instructure employees as 2025 Leading Women in AI. Melissa Loble, chief academic officer, and Narine Hall, principal AI product manager at Instructure, were recognized. This honor spotlights over 200 women building the AI revolution in education. In her academic strategy role, Loble ensures the educator experience remains core to everything the company does. Hall drives Instructure’s AI strategy with a focus on empowering relationship-driven, customized learning with the educator at the center of the learning experience.

Shifts in Global Migration Trends Open Doors to Rising Global Destinations for Work and Study Abroad— British Council IELTS

Manila, Philippines – Recent shifts in the global economy are leading popular Filipino migration destinations—US, UK, Canada, and Australia—to update their visa and international student policies, opening opportunities in emerging destinations. The British Council, a globally trusted and recognized provider of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), provides personalized support to help Filipinos gain internationally recognized qualifications and explore fresh avenues for work, study, and living abroad in 2025.

Historically drawn to the "big four" destinations—the US, UK, Canada, and Australia—Filipino emigrants now face a shifting terrain. In the US, immigration restrictions have put residency papers on hold, while Australia moves to cap international student enrolments. Meanwhile, Canada is scaling back temporary foreign worker programs and the UK is tightening student visa rules.

To help Filipinos navigate the changing migration landscape, the British Council, the organization that co-jointly runs the IELTS, provides internationally recognized credentials that open doors to a wide range of opportunities worldwide. Accepted by over 12,500 organisations across 140 countries, the British Council provides essential resources and personalized support needed to help Filipinos succeed in the IELTS exam, preparing them for success not only in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, but also in emerging destinations across Europe, Asia, and beyond.

Where Filipinos are Headed in 2025
Several countries are now eager to attract global talent, creating new opportunities for Filipino students and professionals. Here are some of the rising destinations for 2025:

New Zealand

New Zealand, known for its thriving agriculture, healthcare, construction, and engineering sectors, is also becoming an increasingly attractive destination for Filipino workers. The country recently overhauled its Accredited Employer Work Visa regulations to make it easier for skilled foreign workers to migrate. These changes include removing restrictions on middle-income jobs, reducing experience requirements from three to two years, and introducing new seasonal worker visas. 

Germany

Germany, well-renowned for its expertise in engineering, healthcare, and technology, has become a top destination for Filipino students and professionals. To strengthen its workforce, the country introduced major immigration reforms through the Skilled Labor Immigration Act, a new points-based system that evaluates applicants based on salary, educational level, and German language proficiency, making it easier to enter the country even without a job offer. The country also supports foreign students with a one-year opportunity visa, allowing them to gain work experience and improve their chances of securing long-term employment.

“Moving here was a big step, but its world-class education, strong job market, and vibrant culture made it all worth it,” recounts Jay Paul Ely Tena, the 2023 IELTS Prize Winner, who recently pursued his graduate studies at the University of Erfurt. “Adjusting to the language and lifestyle had its challenges, but my IELTS preparation with the British Council gave me the confidence to communicate effectively, both in my studies and daily life,” he adds.

Spain

Spain, a global hub for education and business, is strengthening its immigration policies to boost its workforce. Foreign students pursuing higher education can receive automatic work authorization and can remain in Spain for up to 24 months post-graduation to seek employment or start a business. The country has also removed the three-year residency requirement for switching from a student to a work visa, making it easier for graduates to enter the workforce. Additionally, Spain plans to legalize 300,000 undocumented immigrants annually, granting them work and residence permits.

"Living in Spain has been an incredible experience—the welcoming culture, the balance between work and personal life, and the accessibility of everything made it feel like home," shares Jessica Badua, the 2022 IELTS Prize winner, who earned her master's degree at the Universidad de Cádiz. "The British Council IELTS was instrumental in my journey, not only helping me gain admission to my master's program but also opening doors for scholarships and opportunities that made my transition as an international student smoother and much more rewarding."

Singapore

Singapore remains a top choice for Filipino professionals. The country’s Overseas Networks and Expertise (ONE) Pass, part of the city-state’s broader strategy to attract top global talent, allows skilled professionals and entrepreneurs to live and work there for five years without employer restrictions. The country has also simplified pathways for international students to obtain permanent residency, allowing graduates to transition smoothly into the workforce. 

"Many Filipinos may feel uncertain about their options due to the changing migration landscape," says Zoe Zhang, Regional Director for Exams at the British Council. "But the British Council ensures that our candidates have the tools and qualifications they need to prepare for the IELTS and help them succeed on the global stage, even outside the ‘Big 4.’"

While migration trends continue to evolve, the British Council IELTS remains committed to equipping Filipino students and professionals with the right resources and support to pursue their work, study, and living abroad dreams—empowering them to build a bright future anywhere in the world. 

To book your IELTS exam, secure your slot here: https://bit.ly/4jJrHud. For more information about the British Council visit the IELTS British Council Facebook page or website.

The Role of AI in Revolutionizing Your Job and Industry

In today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, artificial intelligence (AI) is making its presence felt across various industries, significantly impacting the way we work and interact with technology. AI's transformative power is not only confined to streamlining processes but extends to offering valuable assistance, increasing efficiency, and opening up new opportunities for workers in diverse professions.

1. Enhanced Data Analysis:

AI technologies, particularly machine learning and data analytics, have become indispensable tools across many sectors. Professionals now can analyze vast amounts of data efficiently. In healthcare, for example, AI algorithms help doctors make more accurate diagnoses by sifting through extensive medical records and recognizing patterns that humans might miss. In financial services, AI can assess risk and identify investment opportunities with remarkable precision.

2. Automating Repetitive Tasks:
AI has made considerable strides in automating routine tasks, which are often tedious and time-consuming. This translates to increased productivity and allows employees to focus on more creative and value-added aspects of their jobs. In manufacturing, AI-powered robots handle monotonous assembly line tasks, reducing errors and injuries. Administrative work, such as data entry or managing schedules, can also be streamlined through AI-driven tools, freeing up employees to concentrate on strategic decision-making.

3. Personalized Customer Experiences:
AI plays a pivotal role in enhancing customer experiences. Chatbots and virtual assistants are becoming prevalent in fields like customer service and e-commerce, where they provide real-time support, answer inquiries, and make personalized product recommendations. These AI systems rely on natural language processing, which empowers them to comprehend and respond to human speech or text. This technology caters to customers' needs and helps businesses build stronger relationships.

4. Predictive Maintenance:
AI has introduced the concept of predictive maintenance in various industries, including manufacturing, energy, and transportation. AI algorithms are capable of monitoring the condition of machinery and equipment in real time, identifying early signs of potential failures. By replacing components before they break down, companies can significantly reduce downtime and maintenance costs.

5. Transforming Education:
The education sector benefits from AI by providing personalized learning experiences. AI can analyze a student's strengths and weaknesses, adjusting the curriculum accordingly. For educators, AI can automate administrative tasks and help identify struggling students who may require extra support. As a result, educational institutions can provide a more tailored approach to teaching and learning.

6. Creative and Content Industries:
AI is not limited to analytical roles; it's also making strides in creative fields. It can generate art, compose music, and even write articles like this one. For content creators, AI tools can assist with research, generate ideas, and even refine writing style. In graphic design, AI can automate certain design tasks, making it a valuable asset for designers who want to enhance productivity.

As AI continues to mature and evolve, it will become an even more integrated part of the workforce across various industries. Its ability to process vast amounts of data quickly, handle repetitive tasks, and enhance personalization offers numerous benefits. Workers will find themselves increasingly partnered with AI to augment their skills and abilities, ultimately leading to more efficient and innovative workplaces.

In conclusion, the impact of AI on jobs and industries is transformative, and its potential is only beginning to be realized. As AI systems continue to learn and adapt, the partnership between humans and machines will result in a more productive, efficient, and innovative work environment, allowing professionals to focus on higher-order tasks while AI handles the routine ones.

Answering evolving work trends: Lenovo launches Digital Workplace Solutions to boost employee experience and increase productivity

MANILA – At a time when companies are struggling to find customized technologies to address their unique business requirements, Lenovo Solutions and Services Group (SSG) is launching Digital Workplace Solutions (DWS), a new managed services portfolio of intelligent tools and systems. DWS delivers work-related technology, security, efficiency, and employee satisfaction so that executives can deliver on key performance outcomes. 

According to recent research commissioned by Lenovo, nine out of ten (90%) CIOs claim they are frequently asked to make business choices other than technology adoption. Furthermore, people-focused challenges are gaining appeal.

"Lenovo is committed to providing innovative solutions to support organizations as they adapt to the changing landscape of hybrid work. Digital Workplace Solutions work in tandem with our vast partner network to equip businesses with the support, guidance, and advanced technology that enhances operational cost management and overall productivity, increases security, and creates a seamless employee experience in the digital workplace,” said Michael Ngan, Country General Manager of Lenovo Philippines.

Lenovo DWS helps organizations gain a competitive advantage faster by leveraging Lenovo-managed services that deliver tailorable work habitats that are people-focused and well-equipped to address important business concerns.

With a broad catalog of flexible, end-to-end services, the portfolio stretches across IT environments to meet organizations where they are in their transformation journey:

● Digital workplace advisory services – Diagnose and design end-user hardware and software landscapes to improve productivity and the user experience\

● Persona-based configuration – Deploy a tailored suite of apps and services that fit different digital user personas and needs

● Collaboration and productivity – Pre-packaged suite of fully integrated collaboration apps, deployment of best-of-breed solutions, back-end authentications integrated and managed

● Unified endpoint management – Management of all device infrastructure, next-gen IOT devices, optimized and integrated Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy

● Next-gen Service desk – Service desk focus on employee experience, integrated support for devices and apps, pre-emptive support, automation, and self-serve

● Security – Professional and managed security services to provide implementation and ongoing management of best-of-breed security solutions

Visit Lenovo Tech Today to learn more about how DWS streamlines and optimizes remote, hybrid, and onsite work environments. And stream a virtual discussion on the capabilities, benefits and versatility of Lenovo DWS beginning May 18. 

Hustle PH study: 6 out of 10 Filipinos actively engage in ‘woke’ culture to amplify social issues

07 June 2023, Manila, Philippines — Filipinos are stepping up in the era of digital activism. According to the study produced by data analytics firm Agile Data Solutions, 64% of Filipinos are engaging in ‘woke’ discussions primarily “to ignite conversations and awareness about social issues,” and 43% are engaging in ‘cancel’ culture-contents “to hold individuals or organizations accountable for their actions or statements.”

The study was rolled out online in May 2023 to 600 Filipino participants aged 18 and above using the Hustle PH app.

Four out of 10 Filipinos expressed that these kinds of content heightened their levels of political engagement, encompassing activities such as activism, voting in elections, and engaging in campaign efforts.

The study also found that 30% identified women's empowerment as the most critical issue to discuss online, 26% pointed to live-in relationships, and 24% highlighted LGBTQIA+ rights as equally essential topics of online discourse.

“The study reveals that even though most FIlipinos may be confused by current ‘woke jargon’, they actively take a progressive stand on women empowerment, LGBTQ rights, and environmental protection” said Jason Gaguan, founder of Agile Data Solutions. 

“The broad range of topics also suggests a community that values diverse perspectives and is actively seeking to broaden its understanding of various lifestyle choices,” he added.

On Market Behavior and Preference

The influence of these cultures is also evident in the respondents’ buying patterns as consumers increasingly prioritize aligning brands' values with their own. More than half of Filipinos — 57% — said ‘woke’ culture made them “put more emphasis on how goods and services are being marketed or promoted,” and 55% said the same due to being exposed to ‘cancel’ culture.

“Consumers are increasingly becoming conscious of a brand's values and integrity, and they are willing to make purchasing decisions based on these factors,” Gaguan said. 

Additionally, 51% of those surveyed said ‘woke’ content made them “more focused on who's selling the goods and services rather than the actual products. The same goes for 52% of the respondents.

The survey also reveals 44% are “more likely to support brands that share my values or promote social justice.” In comparison, 30% reported avoiding purchasing from companies that had been "canceled" due to offensive or harmful behavior.

In response to these findings, Gaguan said, “Businesses and organizations should recognize these changing societal norms to better align their marketing efforts to stay relevant and connected to their consumers.”

The poll finds that Facebook, the most popular social media platform in the Philippines, is also the choice of 81% of participants as a platform for these kinds of discussions. The remaining percentage is split evenly between those who prefer using the short-form video app TikTok and those who favor traditional in-person discussions.

While Facebook remains dominant in the sphere of public conversation, Gaguan said, “TikTok has taken an emerging role of shaping public opinion” and that the data highlights “the enduring value of face-to-face communication.”

“Whatever trends may come in social media, its overarching objective remains to promote social awareness and ensure accountability,” he added.  

Agile Data Solutions, through its cutting-edge data-gathering platform, Hustle PH, remains dedicated to exploring and analyzing cultural trends to help businesses and individuals make informed decisions.

Globe encourages employees to use Tech 4 Good in InnovTalks Workshop

As a digital solutions platform, Globe is ramping up its efforts in training its employees on how technology and innovation can pave the way for sustainable solutions.

Through its Tech4Good program, Globe’s Information Services Group (ISG) introduced InnovTalks last year to educate employees on emerging technologies, sustainable business practices, and how they can move towards utilizing tech for social good.

This is in line with Globe’s commitment to the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) in support of 10 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), spreading awareness of technology’s important role in proliferating sustainability consciousness among its stakeholders.

 

“We want to show how employees and partners can make a difference and contribute to sustainability through continuing conversations. InnovTalks is a step towards a more sustainable future,” Globe Chief Information Officer Raul Macatangay said.

 

This year, InnovTalks focused on how to achieve digital and operational sustainability, including greening the supply chain and network, making conscious efforts to lessen carbon emissions within operations, and ensuring that all employees understand their roles in promoting sustainability within the company.

 

Apple Evangelista, Globe Head of Sustainability and Social Responsibility, highlighted the importance of grounding all collective action in accordance with the Globe Purpose, “in everything we do, we treat people right to create a #GlobeOfGood.”

 

The speakers also talked about championing activities that contribute to nation-building and investing in innovations that can contribute to the company’s sustainability priorities, in line with Globe’s three sustainability pillars: Care for People, Digital Nation, and Care for the Environment.

 

“Sustainability is a shared responsibility across all stakeholder groups. For us, we see it as our duty to bring our employees and partners to the same level of understanding that will allow us to continue working towards our sustainability commitments. Discussion platforms like InnovTalks are one of the many avenues we have created for our employees’ learning and training,” Evangelista said.

 

To learn more about Globe, visit www.globe.com.ph.

Lenovo Ushers the Reopening of Offices in the Philippines with their All-New Workplace Solutions

 Manila Philippines, July 2022 – Lenovo recently announced the launch of its Workplace Solutions portfolio designed to give organizations the confidence to welcome their employees back.

“With more Filipinos returning to office and their expectations of the workplace evolving, companies recognize that reopening the office does not mean reverting to the pre-COVID status quo. Employees want the flexibility to easily log in anytime, anywhere, and focus on work that matters without having to wrangle with tech issues. Lenovo Workplace Solutions are built to help companies provide  compelling employee experiences that drive productivity and attract talent. These include tools that enhance communications and create efficiencies by reducing administrative workloads,” Daniel Fields, Executive Director, Services Business of Lenovo Asia Pacific said.

Companies are increasingly turning to technology to manage the complex needs of a hybrid workforce. This was confirmed by Lenovo’s recent global study of Chief Information Officers, which reveals that CIOs are managing areas beyond their traditional purview. According to the study, with IT enmeshed in every facet of a business, CIOs play a vital role in ensuring connectivity, productivity, and overall efficiency as they take the lead in making sure companies invest in digital transformation. Good thing Lenovo’s Workplace Solutions portfolio is finally here with several smart workspace solutions such as:

● Workspace Booking: A scheduling software that provides real-time visibility on workspace occupancy so employers can better manage office capacity and quickly book facilities

● Workplace Analytics: A dashboard that shows real-time insights on space usage through non-invasive heat and motion sensors

● Digital Signage: A content management system that turns static displays at high-traffic places into visually-rich multimedia screens

● Visitor Management: A simpler registration process and health check-in forms that drastically reduces waiting time; therefore, improving the overall visitor experience

● Smart Locker: A flexible self-service storage service where employees can pick up and drop off assets securely 24/7

● Smart Collaboration: An all-in-one meeting room solution with video conferencing software and integrated devices that are easy to use and scale according to meeting sizes

All these include 24/7 remote health monitoring, access to experts and technicians across Lenovo’s global network, and field service repairs!

Suffice to say that Lenovo Workplace Solutions empower remote and hybrid teams with smart, efficient, innovative ways to collaborate and get things done. Easy to deploy and manage, these tools scale with the organization’s needs. The result: enhanced innovative IT solutions, reduced costs and administration, and improved productivity and performance.

To learn more, visit: www.lenovo.com/ph.

About Lenovo

Today, industries are reshaping and reimaging what they make and how they do it. Virtual healthcare. Remote education. Smarter shopping. Smarter technology must be made for all. As a Fortune Global 500 technology company and one of Fortune Magazine’s World’s Most Admired Companies, we think and act globally. Breakthroughs aren’t born in a bubble, and it takes all kinds of people and points of view to make technology smart. We’re proud to leverage the diversity of our more than 63,000 employees to serve customers in 180 markets to redefine and stretch the limits of what technology can do. To find out more visit https://www.lenovo.com/ph