Philippines Remittance Market Report: A Dynamic Landscape of Overseas Contributions, Student Mobility, and Digital Transformation

According to Makreo Research analysis, the Philippines stands as the world's fourth-largest remittance market, trailing only India, China, and Mexico, as reported by the World Bank. In 2020, personal remittances from overseas Filipinos played a pivotal role, constituting a substantial 9.6% of the nation's GDP. Throughout 2022, remittances experienced a boost due to several factors. Strong oil prices in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries contributed to increased incomes for migrants. Additionally, large money transfers from the Russian Federation to countries in Central Asia and the robust labor market in the United States and other advanced migrant destination economies played key roles.

Nearly half (48%) of total remittances to East Asia and the Pacific Islands (excluding China) find their destination in the Philippines. In 2022, the growth in remittances was fueled by the lifting of the emigration ban to Saudi Arabia, addressing worker abuse issues, and specific agreements facilitated by the Filipino government, particularly in emerging OECD destinations.

From 2018 to 2019, Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) cash remittances experienced a commendable year-on-year growth of approximately 4%. Notably, OFWs employed in elementary occupations were the primary contributors, sending remittances amounting to roughly 42.81 billion Philippine pesos in 2019. Overall, cash remittances reached an unprecedented high of USD 33.5 billion in 2019, up from the USD 32.24 billion registered in 2018. The strong inflows were primarily from the U.S., constituting over a third of all remittances, followed by contributions from Saudi Arabia, Singapore, and Japan.

Globally, a rising number of individuals seek better opportunities beyond their home countries. The Filipino diaspora includes 10 million living abroad, with over 1 million leaving the country annually for work. Remittances to the Philippines from around the world continue to witness an upward trajectory.

The outward remittance market is expanding, driven by accessible educational loans for higher studies. Initiatives such as the Unified Student Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education (UniFAST) offer educational subsidies and various student loan programs to Filipino students. This has led to a significant migration of students for higher education to other countries, particularly notable is the substantial flow of Filipino students to Canada. As of 2022, an estimated 62,000 Filipino students are studying abroad, further contributing to the growth of outward remittances.

► Top Destinations for Filipino Students
Canada, Australia, and the United States currently stand as the top three destinations for Filipino students seeking educational opportunities abroad. The pursuit of quality education has led a significant number of students from the Philippines to these countries, marking a notable trend in the global mobility of Filipino scholars.

► Traditional Remittance Channels and Unbanked Challenges in Asia Pacific
An intriguing aspect of the remittance landscape is the prevalence of traditional methods, particularly in countries with a significant unbanked population. Notably, three nations in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region-Vietnam, the Philippines, and Indonesia-stand among the top ten most unbanked countries globally, as reported by British research platform Merchant Machine.

In this context, Vietnam secures the second position on the list, with a staggering 69% of its total population lacking access to traditional banking services. The Philippines follows closely, ranking fourth with 66%, while Indonesia holds the ninth spot with 51%. The reliance on traditional remittance methods in these nations can be attributed to the prevailing unbanked status, highlighting the challenges faced by a significant portion of the population in accessing formal financial services.

► Cash Dominance in the Philippines and Traditional Money Transfer Services
In the Philippines, the adage "cash is king" resonates strongly, influencing the remittance preferences of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). A substantial majority of OFWs opt for traditional money transfer services, facilitating the transfer of funds through over-the-counter transactions at brick-and-mortar pick-up locations. These physical locations include pawnshops and local branches of remittance companies, providing a tangible and accessible means for families to receive remittances.

► Digitalization Reshaping the Remittance Landscape
The remittance industry is undergoing a transformative phase driven by digitalization, propelled by advancements in fintech and internet technologies. Regions with robust infrastructure witness higher penetration and financial inclusion through digital remittance platforms. Conversely, the challenges to digitalization include a lack of infrastructure and awareness, hindering its widespread adoption.

The digital remittance sector is poised for significant growth, with an anticipated Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 23.8% by 2025. This projection reflects the increasing acceptance and integration of digital platforms, presenting a paradigm shift in the way remittances are processed and received. Factors contributing to this growth include technological advancements, increased accessibility, and a changing financial landscape.

In summary, the intersection of Filipino student migration trends and the evolving remittance landscape reveals a dynamic narrative influenced by traditional practices, socio-economic realities, and the transformative potential of digitalization in the financial sector.

► Key Questions Answered

Exploring Essential Inquiries
1. What is the historical performance of the Philippine economy, and what growth prospects are anticipated for the future?
2. What was the past growth rate of revenue in the Philippines Money Remittance market, and what is the current state of the industry?
3. What were the primary driving factors that propelled the Philippines Money Remittance industry forward in the past?
4. What is the projected future of the Philippines Money Remittance market?
5. What is the distribution between digital and non-digital payment methods in the Philippines Remittance Market?
6. Which countries are the top recipients of remittances from the Philippines?
7. Who are the Tier 1 Players in the Philippines Remittance Market?
8. Among pawnshops in the Philippines, who are the key players?
9. What are the key business highlights of these players?
10. What major mergers and acquisitions have taken place in the past within the Philippines Remittance Market?
11. What is the market share held by the key players in the Philippines Remittance Market?
 
► Scope of the Study
Makreo Research has recently released a study on the Philippines Remittance market titled, "Philippines Remittance Market Size and Forecast (2018-2028) - Share and Growth Analysis By Mode of Transfer (Digital and Traditional), By Type (Inward Remittance, Outward Remittance), By Channel (Banks, Money Transfer Operators)." This comprehensive study delves into the inward and outward flow of the Philippines Money Remittance market, providing a detailed assessment of historical and current market trends.

The report adopts a holistic approach, enhancing the overall analysis and rendering it a valuable resource for individuals or organizations interested in exploring the Domestic & International Remittance Market. It covers aspects of both Digital & Non-Digital Channels and examines the Inflow & Outflow by countries.

Particular attention is given to key companies operating within the Remittance Market, with a focus on prominent entities such as BDO Bank of the Philippines, Bank of the Philippines Islands, and Metro Bank. These companies represent a diverse array of players within the market. The report meticulously evaluates various aspects related to these companies and the industry as a whole, encompassing M&A, Funding, and detailed Company profiles.

A noteworthy feature of the report is its balanced mix of macroeconomic and microeconomic analysis, providing both qualitative and quantitative insights. This comprehensive approach ensures a thorough understanding of the dynamics shaping the Philippines remittance market.

► Period of Study
■ 2018-2022 : Past and Present Scenario
■ 2022: Base Year
■ 2023-2028 : Future Outlook of the industry

► Market Assessment: The report examines the Philippines Money Remittance Market in terms of market revenue and further breakdown into market

► Segmentation:
■ By Type (Domestic Remittance & International Remittance)
■ By Flow Type (Inward & Outward Flow)
■ By Payment Method (Traditional & Digital)
■ By Channel (Banks, Money transfer Operator, Online Platform, Others)
■ By Countries (United States, China, Japan, India, Singapore, Others)
■ By End Users (Migrant Labour Force, Personal, Small Businesses, Others)

► Companies Covered
■ Banco de Oro Universal Bank (BDO Unibank)
■ Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI)
■ Metro Bank
■ Western Union
■ Luzon Brokerage Company (LBC Express)
■ Cebuana Lhuillier Pawnshop
■ Palawan Pawnshop
■ Villarica Pawnshop, Inc.
■ Tambunting Pawshop
■ Raquel Pawnshop

To Know More
Philippines Remittance Market Size and Forecast (2018-2028)
https://www.makreo.com/report/philippines-remittance-market-size-and-forecast-2018-2028

Related Reports:
Global Money Remittance Market Analysis and Forecast (2016-2027)
https://www.makreo.com/report/global-money-remittance-market-report-forecast-2022-2027

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