As we celebrate the International Day of Happiness, it’s only fitting to explore the annual World Happiness Report—a fascinating endeavor to measure and understand our collective happiness through data and personal experiences. In this blog, we delve into the latest report, highlighting the Philippines’ drop in ranking and Singapore’s remarkable rise in happiness.

The Philippines’ Plunge in Happiness:
The World Happiness Report, which has been published since 2013, offers insights into the quality of life factors and citizen satisfaction in countries worldwide. Unfortunately, this year’s report brings disappointing news for the Philippines, as it witnessed a significant drop in its ranking compared to the previous year.

In the latest edition, the Philippines landed at the 76th spot out of 137 countries, slipping from its position at 60th out of 145 nations just a year ago. The country’s happiness score also decreased from 5.904 to 5.523 out of a possible 10. Despite this decline, the Philippines still holds the distinction of being the 10th happiest country in Asia.

Leading the Happiness Chart:
For the sixth consecutive year, Finland has secured the top spot in the world’s happiness rankings, closely followed by Denmark, Iceland, Israel, and the Netherlands. On the other end of the spectrum, Afghanistan and Lebanon continue to face significant challenges in terms of happiness, occupying the lowest ranks in the survey.

Singapore’s Soaring Happiness:
In a surprising twist, Singapore has emerged as Asia’s happiest nation and secured the 25th place globally in the World Happiness Report 2023. With a remarkable score of 6.587 out of 8 for average life evaluation, Singapore’s ranking represents a substantial improvement compared to previous years.

Singapore’s upward trajectory is a testament to its relentless pursuit of well-being. In 2022, it ranked 27th worldwide, and in 2021, it secured the 32nd position. The report emphasizes Singapore’s adherence to the rule of law, particularly highlighting the Singapore Prison Reform of 1998, which has played a role in fostering happiness and social harmony.

Cheer up, Filipinos

In the face of political upheaval, inflation, rising prices of commodities, unemployment, and a weakening purchasing power of the peso, it’s easy to feel disheartened. However, we aim to uplift spirits and remind Filipinos that happiness can be found even amidst turbulent times. Let’s embark on a journey of resilience, optimism, and the pursuit of joy.

1. Embracing the Power of Resilience: As Filipinos, we have a remarkable ability to bounce back from adversity. Let’s draw strength from our resilience and use it as a foundation to navigate the challenges we face. Remember that tough times don’t define us; it’s how we rise above them that truly matters.
2. Finding Beauty in the Simple Things: Despite the chaos around us, there is beauty in the simplicity of everyday life. Take a moment to appreciate the warmth of a loved one’s embrace, the sound of laughter, the taste of our favorite comfort food, or the vibrant colors of a sunset. By cherishing these simple moments, we can find solace and joy.
3. Cultivating a Supportive Community: In times of uncertainty, leaning on our community can provide a sense of belonging and support. Reach out to family, friends, or even online groups that share common interests. Together, we can provide encouragement, lend a helping hand, and remind each other that we are not alone in this journey.
4. Nurturing Mental and Emotional Well-being: Amidst the challenges we face, it’s crucial to prioritize our mental and emotional well-being. Practice self-care activities that bring you joy and peace, such as meditation, journaling, engaging in hobbies, or pursuing creative outlets. Taking care of ourselves allows us to better navigate the difficulties and maintain a positive outlook.
5. Celebrating Small Victories: Even the smallest victories deserve recognition and celebration. Whether it’s landing a job interview, successfully managing finances, or completing a personal goal, acknowledge and reward yourself for these accomplishments. By focusing on our achievements, we can cultivate a sense of pride and motivation to keep moving forward.
6. Supporting Local Businesses: In challenging economic times, supporting local businesses can make a significant impact. Choose to buy local products, dine at neighborhood eateries, or explore local crafts and services. By doing so, we contribute to the growth of our community and foster a sense of unity and shared prosperity.
7. Finding Strength in Unity: As Filipinos, we have a rich history of coming together during difficult times. Let’s harness the power of unity to support one another, create positive change, and work towards a brighter future. Through collective action, we can overcome the hurdles we face and build a stronger and more resilient nation.

Though political upheaval, inflation, and economic challenges may cast shadows on our lives, we have the power to choose happiness.

Let’s stand tall in the face of adversity, find joy in the simplest of moments, and support one another on this journey. Together, we can create a brighter and more hopeful future, no matter the circumstances. Remember, the Filipino spirit is indomitable, and our pursuit of happiness will prevail.

As we continue our pursuit of happiness, let us remember that it is not solely measured by rankings but by the collective efforts to build a society where well-being, empathy, and joy flourish.