Factor Affecting Fertility in the Philippines (1980-2020)

Abstract

Fertility is defined as the ability to conceive a child, which contributes to the population growth in the country. Hence, this research paper aimed to explain the factors affecting fertility in the Philippines from 1980 to 2020 using time series data at the national level. The Theory of Demographic Transition was adopted as a theoretical framework. This research paper used quantitative research design. Data were run through multiple regression analysis and the results revealed that GDP per capita, in its log form, and urban population are negatively related and statistically significant at a 1% level of significance to the two measures of fertility, the Crude Birth Rate and Total Fertility Rate. This result is consistent with the adopted theory that as countries progress, fertility decreases. So, with an increase in GDP per capita and an increase in urban population, fertility should therefore decrease. Likewise, the unemployment rate and women out-migration are negatively related to fertility, which is logical since these variables lower the incidence of women being pregnant. Results suggest that as these factors are effective in alleviating poverty in the Philippines, these are also effective in reducing fertility in the country. Moreover, the government and its constituents should focus on factors mentioned as it helps in the country's development and monitor fertility behavior.