Most Filipinos welcome 2025 with hope despite economic uncertainty: SWS Survey

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DAVAO CITY — Around 90% of adult Filipinos are greeting the year 2025 with hope rather than fear, according to a recent survey conducted by the Social Weather Stations (SWS) from December 12-18, 2024.

While optimism remains high, the figure represents a 6-point drop from 96% in 2023, making it the lowest level of hopefulness recorded since 89% in 2008. Meanwhile, 10% of Filipinos reported feeling fearful about the coming year, a 7-point increase from 3% in 2023 and the highest level since 11% in 2009.

Despite the dip in optimism, many Filipinos see opportunities in 2025, particularly tied to the upcoming election season, which is expected to stimulate local economic activity.

Cristina, 58, a solo mother and fruit vendor in Davao City, expressed cautious optimism. “I am still hopeful that my sales will get better next year because it’s election season. Candidates will be in a money-sharing frenzy to get votes, and people will have more to spend,” she said.

For others, resilience remains the key. Lalaine, a beauty consultant, shared her outlook: “We just have to work hard to have enough for our family.”

The SWS survey also highlighted a decline in Christmas cheer among Filipinos. Only 65% of respondents said they expected a happy Christmas in 2024, compared to 53% in 2023. Those who anticipated the holiday to be “neither happy nor sad” or outright sad also reported lower levels of hope for 2025. Hope was highest among those who expected a happy Christmas (90%), followed by those who were neutral (87%) and those who were sad (74%).

Regional Variations in Hope

The drop in hopefulness for 2025 was observed across all major regions:

• Balance Luzon: 92% (down from 97%)
• Metro Manila: 91% (down from 97%)
• Visayas: 87% (down from 93%)
• Mindanao: 89% (down from 95%)

These figures reflect the broad challenges Filipinos are anticipating, including higher inflation, global economic uncertainties, and local economic adjustments.

Despite the challenges, the 2025 economic outlook offers potential bright spots. The election season is expected to inject cash flow into local economies as candidates increase spending on advertisements, campaigns, and voter mobilization activities. Traditionally, these periods have led to a temporary boost in consumption, benefiting small businesses and local vendors like Cristina.

Analysts predict that sectors such as retail, logistics, and media will experience heightened activity, driven by election-related expenditures. However, they also warn of the need for vigilance to avoid reliance on short-term gains and focus on long-term economic recovery and resilience.

Economists also highlight concerns such as continued inflationary pressures and global economic volatility, which could temper overall optimism. The Philippine government has pledged to prioritize measures to stabilize prices, create jobs, and improve public services in the coming year.

As Filipinos navigate the complexities of 2025, the SWS findings underscore the enduring spirit of hope, tempered by cautious realism. The year ahead may bring challenges, but for many, it is also an opportunity to rise above and seize the promise of better days.