Filipino Gen Z workers reported slightly lower workplace happiness and higher levels of stress than older employees, according to a survey released by online employment platform Jobstreet by SEEK.
The “Workplace Happiness Index: Philippines 2025” found that 76% of workers aged 18 to 29 were satisfied at work, compared with 77% of millennials and 78% of Gen X employees.
Despite the narrow difference in overall satisfaction, 39% of Gen Z respondents said they often dreaded going to work. The survey also found higher levels of stress and emotional exhaustion among younger workers, with workload demands and stress emerging as areas of dissatisfaction.
Purpose was the strongest driver of workplace happiness among Gen Z respondents, with 76% satisfied with the meaning they found in their work. This was followed by work-from-home arrangements at 73% and the success of their company at 72%.
Among millennials aged 30 to 44, 78% were satisfied with their sense of purpose at work, while 70% expressed satisfaction with their teams and colleagues. Another 68% reported positive sentiments toward their company’s values.
For Gen X workers aged 45 to 59, work-life balance and career advancement were stronger factors. About 73% were satisfied with their work-life balance, while 69% expressed satisfaction with career progression opportunities and company success.
Gen X employees were also more likely than younger workers to feel fulfilled by their jobs, exert additional effort, and feel comfortable being themselves at work. However, the survey found that stress and burnout remained concerns across age groups.
Overall, 77% of Filipino respondents said they were somewhat or extremely happy at work.
“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.”
The survey covered Filipino workers aged 18 to 64 nationwide and was conducted from October to November 2025. Jobstreet did not disclose the number of respondents.
