Gen Z workers are the least happy at work among Filipino employees, with many reporting high stress and emotional exhaustion, according to the Workplace Happiness Index: Philippines 2025 by Jobstreet by SEEK.

The survey found that workplace happiness among Gen Z workers aged 18 to 29 stood at 76%, slightly below Millennials at 77% and Gen X at 78%. Also, 39% of Gen Z respondents said they often dread going to work, making them the most stressed generation in the study.

The findings suggest employers may need to rethink workplace policies as younger employees place greater value on meaningful work, flexible work arrangements, and a healthy work environment to attract and retain talent.

Among Gen Z respondents, 76% said they were satisfied with the purpose they find in their work, while 73% were happy with work-from-home arrangements and 72% were satisfied with their company’s success. Despite these positive ratings, many still reported struggling with workload and stress.

“Our findings show that workplace happiness means different things to different generations, but every employee wants to feel that their work has meaning and purpose,” said Dannah Majarocon, managing director of Jobstreet by SEEK in the Philippines. “At Jobstreet by SEEK, we believe that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to workplace happiness; that’s why we encourage employers to build workplace strategies that reflect the diverse needs of employees.” 

Millennials aged 30 to 44 ranked supportive teams and company culture as the biggest contributors to workplace happiness. Around 78% said they found purpose in their work, while 70% were satisfied with their colleagues and 68% with their company’s values.

For Gen X workers aged 45 to 59, work-life balance ranked highest, with 73% expressing satisfaction. Career growth opportunities and company success followed at 69% each. Compared with younger workers, Gen X respondents were also more likely to feel fulfilled at work and comfortable being themselves in the workplace.

Overall, 77% of Filipino workers said they were somewhat or extremely happy at work, placing the Philippines among the happier workforces in the Asia-Pacific region. However, the report noted that stress and burnout remain common across all age groups, even among those who generally enjoy their jobs.

The Workplace Happiness Index: Philippines 2025 surveyed Filipino workers aged 18 to 64 nationwide from October to November 2025 to measure employee sentiment across industries and generations. The findings are intended to help employers better understand changing workforce expectations and improve employee retention.

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