ABSTRACT
As the Philippines slowly moves toward industrialization from a basically agricultural economy, it experiences the weakening of the family system that traditionally serves as the support mechanism for the elderly. Increasing urbanization and migration resulting from movement of individuals and families, both within and overseas in search for better job opportunities, have further contributed to this development. As of 2008 the urban population is estimated at 65% of the total population with an annual rate of urbanization at 3% (2005-2010 estimates). In 2009, the estimated net migration rate is around 1.34 migrants per 1,000 population 1 with a large part coming from the deployment of Overseas Filipino Workers abroad. The traditional concept of having more children to ensure one’s support in old age is no longer applicable, as changing economic conditions and population increase reduce the share of each individual in the resources available in the country.
