Internal Migration of Filipino Workers: A Quantitative Study on Acculturation

Abstract ―​

Acculturation occurs when individuals encounter a culture different from their own and adapt their behaviour accordingly. It involves changes in their behaviour, beliefs, and or values as a result of continuous contact and interaction with a different cultural group. This quantitative study explored the acculturation experiences of Filipino workers who relocated from provinces to cities within the country. The study had two main aspects: first, it examined the demographics and acculturation level of internal migrants, and second, it identified the factors affecting their level of acculturation, including gender, age, marital status, educational background, and duration of stay in the city. The sample consisted of 311 internal migrants selected through purposive sampling. Statistical methods such as Kruskal-Wallis, Mann-Whitney, Chi-square, and Ordinal Logistic Regression were employed to determine relationships, differences, and potential significant factors influencing migrants' acculturation in the workplace. The study's findings indicated that internal migrants were primarily female, young adults between 18 and 28 years old, mostly unmarried, with a moderate monthly income, holding bachelor’s degrees, and having relatively short city stays. The study also found evidence that demographic factors such as age, educational attainment, and duration of city residence influenced the migrant’s acculturation.