From financial security to good governance: Here's what Gen Z prioritize in hopes of a better Philippines

Personal effort vs. systemic barriers

Gen Z are also aware that in achieving their dreams, personal effort isn't enough amid problems in the system.

They're determined to work hard, but they think that such an effort won't secure their future due to systemic barriers—including unstable economy, high inequality, and poor governance.

For a 23-year-old male respondent from Lanao Del Norte, better living wages, healthcare, financial security, politics, and governance trickle down to the basic unit like the family.

"Because without these, I don't think... the system my family is living [in] today will perpetuate, where they settle for the lesser evil... always settling for the bare minimum, always compromising, not receiving the conditions they actually deserve," he said.

Gen Z also acknowledge that without good leaders and good governance, dreaming big is harder. They wish for competent and accountable leaders who would create real opportunities for Filipinos to thrive.

They think issues like corruption, inefficiency, and misplaced priorities affect their generation and the next the most, seeing them as the factors making the country's future bleak.

Political dynasties, celebrities in public office

For the young, only leaders who would put public welfare first through better policies, stronger social protections, and real economic opportunities can help usher in a future in which young people don't just survive but thrive.

A 25-year-old female participant from Lanao Del Norte said the power should be returned to the people, as they can hold government officials accountable.

"[Government officials] are supposed to serve the public," she said. "Nga kumbaga they [should] want to serve... kumbaga they want to prioritize the welfare of improving the country in terms of economy, education, etc."

They also deem political dynasties as problematic, seeing them as entrenched, self-serving, and blocking opportunities for new, more capable leaders.

Some participants, however, saw a potential benefit in political dynasties, arguing that families in power could ensure continuity in governance.

But there's a strong consensus against celebrities—and influencers—running for office, convinced that these types of individuals lack the qualifications to govern, relying solely on their fame to secure votes.

For Gen Z, transparency and accountability are the core values that good leaders must embody. Campaigns centered on social welfare, especially in education, health, and employment, are key to earning their support.

Urban and rural development, environmental protection

Gen Z said economic opportunity shouldn't just be concentrated in cities.

Highlighting the divide between urban and rural development, they argued that for the Philippine economy to truly improve, rural areas must be developed alongside major urban centers.

Many pointed out that young people shouldn't have to leave their hometowns just to find decent jobs.

Gen Z wish for the revitalization of agriculture, especially in regions like Eastern Visayas where farming and fishing will be supported and empowered.

While they acknowledge that those will bring economic progress, they warned that it shouldn't be at the expense of the environment.

For Gen Z, economic growth, rural development, and environmental protection go hand in hand instead of being opposing forces.

True unity

Gen Z are also hoping for true unity that would make the country progress.

While "unity" has become a buzzword due to the now-dissolved Marcos-Duterte tandem in the 2022 national elections, Gen Zs imagine a country in which the president and vice president are governing as equals and not rivals.

For them, unity isn't just about politics but also beliefs, cultures, identities, and religions where everybody can co-exist, embrace each other, and work together for their shared aspirations.

Cautious optimism, pragmatic idealism

All things considered, Gen Z are also swinging between cautious optimism and pragmatic idealism.

Though they remain hopeful, they know a systemic change is necessary for the nation's true advancement.

To achieve their ideal Philippines, a majority of participants emphasized the major role of student organizations and non-government organizations in engaging advocacies such as good governance, health, HIV awareness, and education. Youth participants also stressed the importance of the Sangguniang Kabataan as a vehicle for championing change and realizing their aspirations for the country.

While some expressed willingness to volunteer or engage in civic action, the majority admitted that they would need "someone to push or motivate" them in engaging social issues. Youth participants also pointed out the lack of access to these organizations especially outside of Metro Manila.

Gen Z are also aware that they aren't the primary agents of change in the country, believing that leaders and institutions still create the conditions of their success.

While most of them don't believe in the idea of a so-called generational duty to contribute to social change, many Gen Z are convinced that they may simply contribute individually, such as through hard work and success within their social circles.

Background of the study

The inaugural issue of Filipino Perspectives Digest focuses on what it means to be Gen Z in today's Philippines. It highlights their aspirations, anxieties, and desires for a better nation—and how they think it can be achieved with the right tools, opportunities, and support. 

For the project, WR Numero interviewed 46 individuals aged 18 to 25 hailing from various socio-economic backgrounds, gender identities, and geographic regions. The interviewees comprised 24 males and 22 females. In terms of SOGIE (sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression), 35 of them are straight, four gay, three bisexual, one queer, and one pansexual. Two individuals refused to disclose their SOGIE.

Instead of the typical survey, the research firm used focus group discussions, bringing people together in a facilitated conversation to allow for a deeper and more dynamic exploration of thoughts, emotions, and lived experiences.

The inaugural report's launch, held at Komunidad Hub in Bonifacio Global City, was hosted by L!fe's Generations columnist Angel Martinez and WR Numero's communications lead Jezryl Xavier Genecera.

It also saw an insightful panel discussion from youth advocates and industry leaders, including Asticom Head of Sales Cindy Burdette; Axcess PR General Manager Chescka Diaz; National Youth Commission Asec. Gervy James Gumarit; Grow School Philippines and Youth Uprising CEO Robyn Mijares; and youth influencer and advocate Janina Vela. They shared their thoughts on the key findings of the inaugural report, even as they reflected on how their respective industries can engage more meaningfully with young Pinoys. Joining the discussion were WR Numero Research President and CEO Cleve Arguelles and Filipino Perspectives Digest's lead researcher Beatriz Beato.

Martinez and Genecera, who are also Gen Z, moderated the discussion.

Future installments of the Filipino Perspectives Digest will explore other themes, all ensuring that diverse voices in Philippine society will be heard. Get a copy of its inaugural issue here.