The aspirations of Filipinos in education are deeply rooted in improving their economic
status and securing a better future for their families. Education is viewed not only as a
personal achievement but as a collective endeavor to uplift the family from poverty.
These aspirations are shaped by a strong family-centered culture and the reality of
socioeconomic constraints.
Key aspirations of Filipino students and families
Poverty reduction and upward mobility: For many Filipinos, especially those in lower
socioeconomic classes, education is the most viable path out of poverty. Families make
significant sacrifices, sometimes including a parent working overseas, to finance their
children's education.
Securing a stable, decent job: A primary driver for educational pursuits is the desire
for a "marangal o maayos na trabaho" (decent or proper job). This means securing a
good salary that can support a comfortable life, which for many includes having a
medium-sized home, a car, and providing for their children's college education.
Family welfare and filial obligation: The Filipino concept of interdependence, known
as pamilya, means that educational decisions are often based on family rather than
individual welfare. Children see their academic success as a way to repay their parents
and meet their filial obligations.
Desire for higher education: The push for education is strong, with many young
Filipinos aspiring for a higher level of schooling. This ambition is particularly strong
among those who plan to migrate, whether within the country or abroad, to seek better
opportunities.
Career-focused degrees: Students are increasingly enrolling in courses in high-
demand fields such as criminology, engineering, technology, IT, and business
administration. This reflects a practical aspiration for jobs with high earning potential.
Factors influencing educational aspirations
Gender: Studies show that females in the Philippines are more likely than males to
aspire to a higher level of schooling. This may be tied to gender roles, with girls showing
a preference for professions like medicine and teaching, while boys are drawn to
careers in safety and defense.
Role models: Influential role models, such as medical professionals, religious leaders,
and teachers, significantly boost educational aspirations among young people.
Overseas migration: The prospect of working abroad as an overseas Filipino worker
(OFW) is a major motivator. Aspirations for higher education are higher among those
intending to migrate, as a college degree can lead to higher-paying opportunities
overseas.
Socioeconomic status: While education is seen as a way out of poverty, low-income
families often face significant hurdles. Some believe that ambitions are for the rich,
though many in rural areas still highly value education as part of their family strategy.
Aspirations for the education system
In response to these individual aspirations, there are broader goals for the Philippine
education system:
Addressing educational challenges: Despite high literacy rates and rising enrollment,
challenges like stagnant graduation rates and high dropout rates persist. This creates
aspirations to address issues beyond simple access, including retention and resource
allocation.
Improving quality and relevance: Many recognize the need to strengthen the quality
and relevance of teaching and learning. This includes boosting foundational skills,
improving the learning environment, and aligning education with national development
goals.
Teacher professional development: Filipino teachers aspire for greater professional
growth, including pursuing master's degrees for promotion, improving technological
skills, and having a more supportive environment.
Adopting modern standards: The government and educators aim to modernize the
education system to be globally competitive, which involves initiatives like the K-12
program and focusing on 21st-century skills.
