Why So Many Filipinos in Japan Send Money Home

Living and working abroad often comes with responsibilities that go beyond daily life in a new country. For many Filipinos in Japan, sending money home is a regular part of life. Whether it’s to support family, cover important expenses, or plan for the future, remittances play an important role in both household and national economies. This article explores some of the most common reasons why people living in Japan send money back to the Philippines using services like Smiles Mobile Remittance. 

Supporting Family and Loved Ones 

One of the most common reasons Filipinos send money home is to support their families. Many workers send remittances to help cover everyday living costs such as food, rent, utilities, and other basic needs. For some families, these remittances are an essential source of income and stability. Data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas shows that remittances from overseas Filipino workers reached record highs in recent years, reflecting the importance of this support for households back home. 

Photo credit: ABS-CBN News

Education

Education is a high priority for many families in the Philippines, and financial support from abroad helps cover school fees, university tuition, books, and training programs. Paying for education can help young people build better opportunities for the future, and many Filipinos abroad see this as a key investment in the next generation. 

Photo credit: The Asian

Healthcare and emergency support

Unexpected medical expenses or emergencies can happen at any time. Many Filipinos living in Japan send money home to help with hospital bills, medicine or other urgent family needs. Having funds available can reduce stress for family members and provide support when unexpected costs arise. 

Photo credit: Inquirer

Savings, investments and long-term planning

Some Filipino workers send money home as part of long-term financial planning. This may include saving for a house, land, business or retirement. By building savings in their home country, some workers hope to return one day with a secure financial foundation. 

Photo credit: Filbuild

Cultural and family responsibility

In many Filipino families and communities, supporting relatives financially is not just a choice but a responsibility. Sending money home can be a way to stay connected, show gratitude, and fulfill expectations within the family. Working abroad often involves sacrifice and remittances are one important way that Filipino workers continue to care for their loved ones even from far away. 

The broader impact of remittances

Remittances from Filipinos around the world are a significant part of the Philippine economy. In 2024, personal remittances reached a record $38.34 billion, accounting for more than 8 percent of the country’s gross domestic product. These funds help support national consumption, investment and financial stability. 

Filipinos in Japan also contribute a meaningful share of remittances. Japan ranks among the top sources of remittances to the Philippines, alongside the United States, Singapore and Saudi Arabia. 

Remittances are more than just a transaction

For Filipinos living in Japan, sending money home is about family, duty and planning for the future. Remittances help support everyday needs, education, emergencies and long-term goals. Having reliable and affordable ways to send money can make this important task easier and less stressful. Smiles Mobile Remittance is here to support people sending money across borders and helping them stay connected to what matters most.