(DP 1978-08) An Intersectoral and Sequential Analysis of Migration Decision: Philippines

Abstract

This paper attempts to refine the understanding of migration behavior by analyzing intersectorally and sequentially the decision to move. The main hypothesis is that the factor which influence migration decision vary depending on sector of origin and destination, as well as on whether the decision to be made involves a return to origin or a repeat move to another destination. The results of logit analysis show that such factors as education, occupation, expected monetary income, martial status, and sex exert different intersectoral and sequential effects on migration choice. An implication is that migration and labor mobility policy may be more realistic and, hence, effective if it views migration intersectorally and sequentially, in addition to considering the personal attributes of migrants or potential migrants. As a methodological exercise, the results of logit analysis are compared with those of OLS. The results appear to be virtually no different, lending support to the findings of similar exercises. While the logit model has a distinct statistical (theoretical) advantage, the use of OLS analysis would seem to make practical sense considering that logit analysis is a lot more expensive.