The Philippines is facing a growing obesity crisis, with nearly four in ten adults now classified as overweight or obese. Nutrition surveys show prevalence rates hovering between 37 percent and 40 percent, a sharp rise that mirrors global trends. While diet and lifestyle are obvious factors, international research suggests that long working hours may be a hidden driver of this epidemic.
At the recent European Congress on Obesity in Istanbul, Türkiye, researchers presented data comparing working patterns and obesity rates across 33 OECD countries from 1990 to 2022. The findings were striking: nations such as the US, Mexico and Colombia, where annual working hours are among the longest, also recorded the highest obesity rates. By contrast, northern European countries consumed more calories and fat but had lower obesity levels — suggesting that “time poverty”, not just food choices, plays a decisive role. The study concluded that reducing annual working hours by just 1 percent was linked to a 0.16 percent drop in obesity prevalence.
The mechanism is clear. Long hours mean less time for exercise, more reliance on fast food and higher stress levels. Stress raises cortisol, a hormone that promotes fat storage, while sedentary desk jobs — common in the Philippines’ booming BPO sector — limit opportunities to burn energy. Extended shifts also cut into sleep, another proven risk factor for obesity and metabolic syndrome. Women over 50 working more than nine hours a day are particularly vulnerable, with studies showing significantly higher obesity risks in this group.
The consequences are not only personal but economic. Obesity contributes to absenteeism, reduced productivity and early retirement. Five of the top ten causes of death in the Philippines — including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancer — are directly linked to obesity. The Department of Science and Technology’s Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI) has urged workplaces to respond with regular health screenings, exercise programs, healthier canteen menus and nutrition education.
Globally, the debate is shifting toward structural solutions. In the UK, more than 200 companies have adopted a four‑day week since the pandemic, with over 200,000 workers now benefiting from shorter schedules. Advocates argue that reduced working time allows people to cook healthier meals, exercise and sleep better — choices that directly combat obesity. Portugal is piloting similar reforms, while psychologists emphasize that “time poverty” is a major barrier to healthy living.
For the Philippines, where long hours and high stress are entrenched in many industries, the lesson is clear: tackling obesity may require not only better diets and more gyms, but also a rethink of how much time Filipinos spend at work. A healthier workforce could begin with healthier working hours.* Robert Harland
