Filipinos continued to donate at rates above global and regional averages in 2025, but funding for nongovernmental organizations failed to keep pace with rising costs and demand for social services, two studies found.
The World Giving Report – Donor Insights 2026 said 78% of Filipinos donated last year, compared with 61% globally and 68% across Asia.
Only 34%, however, gave money directly to NGOs, while 80% of Philippine NGOs said domestic funding could be strengthened, according to the Doing Good Index 2026.
“Whilst funding is consistent, the expenses when it comes to deploying the services of the social sector have increased as well, and the demand for those services have increased as well. Expenses had increased, and the funding increase did not match that level,” said Kithmina Hewage, director of policy engagement at the Centre for Asian Philanthropy and Society.
The findings were presented during the Philippine launch of the reports July 30.
Milet Aquino, communications officer of the Association of Foundations, said NGOs must make it easier for people to support their work.
“The willingness to help is already there. The challenge for NGOs is to make it easier for people to act, whether by donating money, volunteering their time, or supporting a cause they care about,” Aquino said.
Corporate support accounts for a substantial share of NGO funding. The index found that 79% of Philippine NGOs receive corporate funds, which make up an average of 34% of their budgets, compared with 19% across Asia.
The Philippines retained its “Doing Better” classification for the fifth consecutive edition of the index, placing it behind only Singapore in Southeast Asia.
Faith remained a major driver of generosity, with 45% of Filipinos donating to religious organizations.
About 90% of Filipinos also reported a strong connection to their communities.
“People who see the positive impact of NGOs on local communities are twice as likely to donate to a charity,” said Alex Plumb, head of research at the Charities Aid Foundation.
