Filipino Music Industry Workers Face Financial Struggles, Survey Reveals

A comprehensive national survey conducted by the Department of Science and Technology (DoST) and the National Research Council of the Philippines (NRCP) has exposed thedire financial situationfaced by workers in the Filipino music industry. The survey, which involved 700 participants including music professionals, companies, and organizations from various regions across the country, found that over 50% of Filipino music industry workers earn less than PHP 20,000 (approximately USD 380) per month, barely above the minimum wage in the National Capital Region of P11,400 monthly.

Why this matters: The struggle of Filipino music industry workers has broader implications for the country's creative economy and cultural development. If left unaddressed, it could lead to a brain drain of talented artists and a loss of cultural heritage.

The survey, part of the Musika Pilipinas Project funded by the DOST-NRCP, also revealed that 61.1% of music industry professionals holdcollege degrees, with a significant portion working freelance. Despite the high level of education among workers, the music industry contributes only 8.8% to the country's creative economy, which is limited compared to other creative fields. In addition, a mere 2.7% of employment in the creative economy comes from the music industry.

Maria Alexandra Chua, project leader for the Musika Pilipinas Project, emphasized the challenges faced by local artists, stating, "Local artists would always have to go through what we normally identify as sariling sikap, that is, without any government intervention and support in its music training, marketing, and promotion." The lack of governmental support in nurturing and promoting local talent has been a major obstacle for the growth and development of the Filipino music industry.

The survey results highlight several critical issues plaguing the Filipino music industry, including the limited economic impact compared to other creative fields, the need for effective protection of intellectual property rights for local artists, and the limited opportunities available in the music industry. These challenges have prompted calls for the establishment of a centralized music coordinating council to address the industry's concerns and strategic development.

While the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act aims to promote the growth of creative sectors, the music industry struggles with adequate representation. This is further underscored by Manila's ranking fifth in the list of "Bottom 10 Cities for Creatives" in a 2023 study by digital marketing company Adventrum, highlighting the limited opportunities and low salaries for creatives in the city.

The survey's findings serve as a wake-up call for the Filipino government and concerned parties to address the pressing issues faced by music industry workers. The establishment of a centralized music coordinating council and increased government support in training, marketing, and promoting local talent are essential steps in elevating the status and economic contribution of the music industry in the Philippines. By cultivating a supportive environment for artists and music professionals, the country can tap into the untapped potential of its creative talent and ensure a thriving and sustainable music industry for generations to come.

Key Takeaways

• Over 50% of Filipino music industry workers earn less than PHP 20,000 (USD 380) per month.
• 61.1% of music industry professionals hold college degrees, but work freelance with limited opportunities.
• Music industry contributes only 8.8% to the country's creative economy, with only 2.7% of employment.
• Lack of government support hinders growth and development of the Filipino music industry.
• Establishing a centralized music coordinating council is crucial to address industry concerns and promote growth.