The government is positioning returning Filipinos and retirees as a new driver of economic growth, with officials pushing to formalize a retirement industry that could generate jobs and investment.
At a recent forum with stakeholders from the U.S. and Australia, Dante “Klink” Ang II, chairperson of the Commission on Filipinos Overseas, said the country is moving to harness what he described as the “silver economy” by attracting members of the diaspora to settle or retire in the Philippines.
He framed the effort as a shift in migration policy, where Filipinos abroad are no longer seen only as workers sending remittances but as potential investors and consumers who can stimulate local economies.
“It is a win for the retiree, who is afforded a higher quality of living because of the low cost of living in the Philippines and a favorable exchange rate,” Ang said.
“Simultaneously, it is a win for the Philippines, where jobs will be created. Retirement projects here will benefit nurses, doctors, physical therapists, and others working in eldercare,” he added.
The plan aligns with the broader policy direction of the Office of the President of the Philippines under Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., which seeks to make migration a choice rather than a necessity.
“Programs such as this realize President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos, Jr.’s aim of making migration a choice, rather than a necessity,” Ang said.
Central to the pitch is the country’s healthcare workforce, which officials say gives the Philippines an edge in developing retirement communities.
“The Philippines has excellent doctors and the best nurses,” Ang said.
“Additionally, the Filipino level of care and hospitality is head and shoulders above others,” he stated.
One of the projects highlighted during the forum was a proposed retirement hub in San Pablo City, Laguna, which is being promoted as a site for “active seniors” seeking both leisure and access to urban services.
“The Philippines, including San Pablo, has much to offer active seniors—proximity to beaches and golf courses,” Ang said.
He said San Pablo is close enough to Metro Manila, which has the amenities found in developed economies.
The forum was organized in partnership with the Philippine Retirement Authority and the National Federation of Filipino American Associations, marking a coordinated push to develop retirement communities as part of national economic planning.
By formalizing the sector, the government aims to channel the savings, pensions, and expertise of Filipinos abroad into domestic growth, while creating demand for healthcare, housing, and support services.
The Commission on Filipinos Overseas, an agency under the Office of the President, focuses on strengthening ties between the Philippines and Filipinos permanently residing abroad, including migrants, dual citizens, and descendants.
