Over the next five years, Taiwan will offer 180,000 job opportunities for caregivers—an employment surge aimed at addressing the country’s growing demand for elderly care. However, despite this promising number, fewer Filipinos have been applying for these roles, raising concerns among recruitment agencies and labor officials.
The announcement was highlighted in a report by Mariz Umali on GMA’s Unang Hirit, where she emphasized the disparity between rising job openings and declining Filipino interest in the caregiving sector.
Taiwan’s aging population has created a steady demand for foreign caregivers, especially in home-based roles. Yet, under current Philippine regulations, caregivers are still classified as household service workers (HSWs) by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). This classification places their starting salary at just over PHP 20,000—a figure considered low given the skill level and responsibilities required for the job.
Recruitment agencies point out that the low salary, combined with the physically and emotionally demanding nature of caregiving, has made the position less attractive to potential applicants. Adding to this is a DMW policy that bans placement fees and other charges for caregiver applicants, a protection meant to ease the burden on migrant workers but which some agencies argue has disincentivized recruiters from actively promoting the job.
In response, the Association of Licensed Recruitment Agencies is now urging the DMW to reclassify caregivers as semi-skilled workers. Such a move could potentially improve compensation packages and elevate the perceived dignity of the job, making it more appealing to the Filipino workforce.
“This isn’t just about salary,” one agency representative shared in the segment. “It’s about recognizing the skills, patience, and emotional labor that caregiving entails. Reclassifying these workers reflects their real value.”
For those interested in applying, the report suggests checking with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) or the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) for accurate application guidelines and lists of licensed agencies. Applicants are also advised to stay vigilant and avoid unauthorized recruiters who might take advantage of the rising demand.
As Taiwan prepares to welcome more foreign caregivers, the challenge now lies in bridging the gap between opportunity and interest. For Filipino workers considering careers abroad, caregiving in Taiwan remains a viable path—but one that requires greater support, recognition, and awareness on both ends of the hiring pipeline.
Thinking of working in Taiwan as a caregiver?
Visit the DMW website or the official MECO Taiwan page for step-by-step application guides, eligibility checks, and accredited agency lists. You can also check out Caregiver Work in Taiwan: Salary, Application Guide, and Tips for more information.