Almost 3 Out of 4 Filipinos Expect Financial Improvement in 2026 Despite Economic Challenges – Herbalife Survey

Herbalife’s APAC Health & Economic Empowerment Survey 2025 reveals 57% of Filipinos plan to cut non-essential spending and 40% plan to learn investing in 2026.

Manila, 23 January 2026 — As the Philippines faces a critical economic juncture—with GDP growth hovering around 4% and fiscal pressures challenging recovery—Filipinos are taking proactive steps to improve their financial future. A new survey by Herbalife, a premier health and wellness company, community and platform, shows that despite economic headwinds, optimism remains strong and entrepreneurial spirit is rising.

The APAC Health & Economic Empowerment Survey 2025 reveals that while only 30% of Filipinos rate their current economic well-being as good, 74% expect their finances to improve in the next 12 months. This optimism is driving practical strategies such as reducing non-essential spending (57%), learning investment skills (40%), and exploring entrepreneurial opportunities (35%). The study found that 65% of respondents have cut back on discretionary expenses, 35% spend time exploring investment options, and 28% said they gave up social gatherings last year as part of their efforts to better manage their finances amid economic challenges.

Family remains the strongest motivator for these financial decisions, with 73% citing loved ones as their primary reason for pursuing economic goals. However, challenges persist. 43% of respondents point to economic uncertainty as a major barrier, while half cite personal financial commitments as a significant hurdle.

In Philippines, the survey also found that entrepreneurs tend to be more optimistic and empowered than non-entrepreneurs. Almost nine in ten entrepreneurs (86%) expect their economic well-being to improve in the next 12 months, compared with 70% of non-entrepreneurs. Entrepreneurs are also more likely to feel empowered to make decisions that improve their financial stability (69%) than non-entrepreneurs (50%).

The survey also found that entrepreneurs in the Philippines (65%) have a significantly better assessment of the current state of their health and overall well-being, as compared to non-entrepreneurs (58%).

“Contrary to the common perception that entrepreneurship is inherently stressful and leads to burnout, the survey shows that entrepreneurs demonstrate higher levels of economic optimism, confidence, and empowerment,” said Allan Domingo, General Manager of Herbalife Philippines. “In the Philippines, where many individuals are exploring additional sources of income to support their families amid rising costs, more people are looking at entrepreneurship as a viable option. Herbalife remains committed to supporting Filipinos by helping them strengthen their health and wellness, while providing opportunities for those who aspire to build their own business as independent distributors.” 

The survey also highlights that health and wealth aspirations go hand in hand. While Filipinos are optimistic about improving their finances, they are equally focused on well-being. 79% expect better health in the next year, with 59% plan to exercise more. This dual focus underscores the importance of holistic solutions that address both physical health and economic empowerment.

Herbalife commissioned the survey across 11 Asia-Pacific markets in October 2025, including the Philippines, with total of 8,505 respondents. The findings underscore opportunities for education, support, and solutions that help Filipinos achieve their aspirations in a challenging economic landscape.