The country climbed 23 spots from last year to rank 53rd out of 143 countries surveyed, marking a significant improvement in the happiness and well-being of Filipinos.

Singapore Tops the Region, Philippines Follows Closely Behind

In the Southeast Asian region, Singapore claimed the top spot, ranking 30th overall in the global happiness index. The Philippines followed closely behind, securing the second position in the region and 53rd worldwide.

Other Southeast Asian countries in the happiness rankings include:

• Vietnam (54th)
• Thailand (58th)
• Malaysia (59th)
• Indonesia (80th)
• Laos (94th)
• Myanmar (118th)
• Cambodia (119th)

Factors Contributing to the Philippines’ Improved Happiness Score

The World Happiness Report takes into account several key factors when determining a country’s happiness score, including GDP per capita, healthy life expectancy, social support, freedom to make life choices, generosity, and perceptions of corruption.

According to World Happiness Report Editor Shun Wang, the Philippines’ increased happiness can be partially attributed to improvements in GDP per capita, healthy life expectancy, and freedom to make life choices over the past few years.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. Head of Trading Helen G. Oleta also noted that the Filipino people’s resilience and ability to thrive in challenging circumstances contribute to their overall happiness.

She added that Filipinos, particularly the younger generation, have learned to better manage work-life balance and enjoy life more in recent years.

Generational Differences in Happiness Levels

For the first time, the 2024 World Happiness Report provided separate rankings by age group, revealing significant differences in happiness levels across generations.

In the Philippines, younger people under 30 years old reported higher life satisfaction compared to older age groups. The country ranked as the 70th happiest nation for those under 30, with an average life evaluation score of 6.305, which is above the overall national score of 6.048.

On the other hand, Filipinos aged 60 and above ranked 43rd in their age group, with an average life evaluation score of 5.976, slightly lower than the national average.

This trend of younger people reporting higher happiness levels compared to older adults is observed globally, although the gap is narrowing in Europe and has recently reversed in North America.

Global Happiness Rankings and Trends

Finland topped the global happiness rankings for the seventh consecutive year, followed by Denmark, Iceland, Sweden, and Israel in the top five positions.

Notable changes in the 2024 rankings include the United States falling out of the top 20 for the first time, largely due to a significant drop in the well-being of Americans under 30. Afghanistan remains at the bottom of the list as the world’s least happy nation.

The report also highlights that global happiness inequality has increased by more than 20% over the past 12 years across all regions and age groups.

The Importance of the World Happiness Report

The annual World Happiness Report, first published in 2012, has become a crucial tool for policymakers, researchers, and the general public to understand and compare the well-being of people across the globe.

The report’s findings are based on data from the Gallup World Poll and analyzed by leading experts in the fields of economics, psychology, and behavioral sciences.

As the Philippines continues to improve its ranking in the World Happiness Report, it is essential for the government and society to prioritize the factors that contribute to the population’s happiness and well-being, such as economic growth, health, social support, and personal freedoms.

By focusing on these areas, the country can work towards creating a more content and prosperous nation for all its citizens, regardless of age.

The Philippines’ impressive improvement in the 2024 World Happiness Report, climbing 23 spots to become the second happiest country in Southeast Asia and 53rd globally, is a testament to the resilience and positive spirit of the Filipino people.

As the country continues to navigate challenges and strive for progress, it is crucial to prioritize the well-being and happiness of its citizens across all generations.

By understanding the factors that contribute to happiness and taking steps to foster a supportive and inclusive society, the Philippines can continue to rise in the global happiness rankings and build a brighter future for all.

The post Philippines Ranks as 2nd Happiest Country in Southeast Asia, According to 2024 World Happiness Report appeared first on HyperLocal PH.

If so, we have fantastic news for you! The Taiwanese government has recently announced that they are extending the trial visa-free entry program for nationals of the Philippines until July 31, 2025.

This means you can enjoy the stunning sights, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality of Taiwan without the hassle of applying for a visa.

What is the Visa-Free Entry Program?

In 2017, Taiwan launched a trial visa-free entry program for citizens of the Philippines, Thailand, and Brunei.

Under this program, eligible passport holders can enter Taiwan for tourism or business purposes for up to 14 days without obtaining a visa in advance.

The program has been a huge success, with many Filipinos taking advantage of the opportunity to explore this fascinating destination.

The visa-free entry program was originally set to expire on July 31, 2024. However, in a move that is sure to delight travelers, the Taiwanese government has decided to extend the program for another year, until July 31, 2025.

This means that if you have been dreaming of visiting Taiwan, now is the perfect time to start planning your trip!

Who is Eligible for Visa-Free Entry?

To be eligible for visa-free entry to Taiwan, you must meet the following requirements:

• You must hold a valid passport from the Philippines with at least 6 months validity remaining
• You must have a return ticket or a ticket to your next destination
• You must have no criminal record in Taiwan
• You must not have previously been denied entry to Taiwan or overstayed your visa
• You must possess sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay (at least $100 per day)
• You must provide proof of accommodation, such as a hotel booking or invitation letter from a host in Taiwan

If you meet all of these requirements, you can simply book your flight and head to Taiwan without the need for a visa. Upon arrival, you will be granted a stay of up to 14 days, which is plenty of time to explore the island’s many attractions.

Why Visit Taiwan?

Taiwan is a truly unique and captivating destination that offers something for everyone. Here are just a few reasons why you should consider visiting:

Stunning Natural Beauty

Taiwan is home to some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in the world. From the towering peaks of Taroko Gorge to the crystal-clear waters of Sun Moon Lake, there is no shortage of stunning landscapes to explore.

The island is also known for its hot springs, which are said to have healing properties and are a popular spot for relaxation.

Delicious Cuisine

Taiwanese cuisine is a delightful fusion of Chinese, Japanese, and indigenous influences, resulting in a unique and flavorful culinary experience.

Some must-try dishes include beef noodle soup, xiaolongbao (steamed dumplings), and stinky tofu.

Night markets are also a huge part of Taiwanese culture, offering a wide variety of street food and snacks to sample.

Rich Culture and History

Taiwan has a fascinating history and culture that is well worth exploring. The island is home to a number of impressive temples and shrines, such as the Longshan Temple in Taipei and the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum in Kaohsiung.

You can also learn about Taiwan’s indigenous tribes at the Shung Ye Museum of Formosan Aborigines or visit the National Palace Museum to see an extensive collection of Chinese art and artifacts.

Friendly Locals

Taiwanese people are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness towards visitors. Don’t be surprised if locals go out of their way to help you or strike up a conversation with you on the street. This welcoming attitude makes Taiwan a great destination for solo travelers or those looking to make new friends.

Top Attractions in Taiwan

With so much to see and do in Taiwan, it can be hard to know where to start. Here are a few of the top attractions that should be on your itinerary:

Taipei 101

This iconic skyscraper was once the tallest building in the world and offers stunning views of Taipei from its observation deck on the 89th floor. You can also shop till you drop at the mall at the base of the tower.

Taroko National Park

Located on the east coast of Taiwan, Taroko National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers. The park features a stunning marble gorge, hiking trails, and scenic viewpoints.

Sun Moon Lake

This beautiful lake in central Taiwan is a popular spot for boating, cycling, and hiking. You can also visit the nearby Wenwu Temple or take a cable car ride for panoramic views of the area.

Jiufen

This charming mountain town was the inspiration for the movie “Spirited Away” and is known for its winding alleyways, tea houses, and stunning ocean views. Be sure to try some of the local specialties like taro balls and peanut ice cream rolls.

How to Plan Your Trip

Now that you know all about the visa-free entry program and the top attractions in Taiwan, it’s time to start planning your trip! Here are a few tips to help you get started:

1. Book your flights and accommodation well in advance to get the best deals. Keep in mind that peak travel seasons in Taiwan are during the summer months and around major holidays like Chinese New Year.
2. Make a list of the attractions and activities you want to do and plan your itinerary accordingly. Don’t try to cram too much into your trip – remember to leave time for relaxation and spontaneous exploration.
3. Learn a few basic phrases in Mandarin Chinese, such as “hello”, “thank you”, and “excuse me”. While many Taiwanese people speak English, knowing a bit of the local language can go a long way in making connections with locals.
4. Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples or other sacred sites. Dress modestly and remove your shoes when entering temples.
5. Try as much of the local cuisine as possible! Taiwan is a food lover’s paradise, so don’t be afraid to sample new dishes and flavors.

Final Thoughts

The extension of the visa-free entry program for Filipinos is a fantastic opportunity to explore one of Asia’s most fascinating and welcoming destinations.

With its stunning natural beauty, delicious cuisine, rich culture, and friendly locals, Taiwan has something to offer every type of traveler.

The post Great News for Filipinos: Visa-Free Entry to Taiwan Extended Until July 31, 2025 appeared first on HyperLocal PH.