WHO’S MOVING IN AND OUT?: PSA Aklan launches migration survey to track trends

KALIBO, AKLAN — Starting Aug. 4, the Philippine Statistics Authority Aklan is conducting the 2025 National Migration Survey across 392 sample households in 24 barangays to gather data on internal and international migration.

Migration refers to the act of changing one’s usual place of residence—whether to another town, province, region, or country—within a specific period, usually for economic, social, political, or cultural reasons.

According to Engr. Antonet B. Catubuan, chief statistical specialist, the 2025 NMS is a critical statistical activity aimed at understanding why people move and how migration impacts individuals, households, and communities.

“The results of the survey will help national and local policymakers create better migration-related programs such as employment assistance, housing, education support, reintegration services, and community initiatives for Filipinos living abroad or relocating within the country,” Catubuan said.

To carry out the field operations, PSA commissioned and trained four statistical researchers and one team supervisor to interview the selected households.

Data to be collected include who moved during their lifetime, where they relocated, why they moved, how long they stayed in their current or previous residence, and the challenges or benefits migration brought to them and their households.

“The data we collect today will shape policies and programs that affect migrant workers, relocated families, and even the communities they move in or out of,” Catubuan added.

PSA Aklan encourages all respondents to provide honest and accurate answers to ensure the generation of high-quality migration statistics.

Results from the 2018 NMS revealed that two in every five Filipinos aged 15 and older had experienced migration in their lifetime.

Most who moved within the country cited work or family reunification as the main reasons, while those who migrated abroad sought better job opportunities.

Such findings are essential for improving economic planning, supporting overseas Filipino workers, and helping families affected by disasters.

Moving forward, the NMS will be conducted once every 10 years and will become part of PSA’s regular statistical activities.