‘Not in this economy’: How Gen Z is navigating work and stability in the Philippines

“Not in this economy” has become shorthand for how many young Filipinos are navigating adulthood today.

In 2026, the Philippine economy continues to grow — but not evenly, and not in ways that always translate into financial security for those just starting out. While official indicators point to stability, Gen Z faces persistent challenges around underemployment, wage stagnation, and delayed milestones.

In this episode of Thought Bubbles, we sit down with Christian Jimenez, a CPA-lawyer and economics professor, to unpack what the numbers are actually telling us — and where they fall short of capturing lived experience. We discuss GDP, employment quality, income realities, and why economic progress can feel abstract on the ground.

Beyond the data, the conversation looks at how young Filipinos are adjusting: building skills outside traditional career paths, leaning into digital and community-based work, and rethinking success in an economy that no longer follows linear timelines.

This episode is produced by Bubbles Magpayo and engineered by Anthony Tobias. Jaemark Tordecilla is our editor-at-large.

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