QUEZON CITY – Institute for Labor Studies (ILS) researcher, Athena Mari E. Son, was interviewed last November 16, 2023 on the topic of GenZ workers, on the radio program TeleRadyo Serbisyo hosted by Amy Perez. 

Ms. Son has written several working papers for the Institute as a researcher, the most recent of which was “Generation Z in the Philippine Labor Force: Profile, Perspectives, and Prospects.”  

Ms. Son explained that Gen Zs who were born into an information technology-driven world are tech-savvy, giving them a different perspective about work. They often seek and value workplace autonomy, allowing them to be more creative and innovative in doing their job. Ms. Son also pointed out that based on literature, Gen Zs advocate for mental health and prefer flexible work arrangements to seek and enjoy more opportunities for increasing income. 

Before the program/interview ended, Ms. Son was asked by Ms. Amy Perez to give some advice to her fellow Gen Zs on how to be productive at work. Ms. Son encouraged Gen Zs to make positive changes and help achieve decent and productive work in the country. Since Gen Zs are the emerging generation, they can potentially dominate the workplace in the future and be a key driving force for the better. Ms. Son added that Gen Zs who are experiencing challenges may seek assistance through DOLE programs such as the Special Program for the Employment of Students, Government Internship Program and JobStart.  

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