The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) commissioned the Philippine Statistical Research and Training Institute (PSRTI) to conduct the "Development of Framework and Methodology to Estimate a Quality of Life Index in the Philippines" or QLI project. The study entails the development of a framework and estimation methodology that can effectively measure a quality of life index in the Philippines, consistent with the Filipino aspirations highlighted in AmBisyon Natin 2040. The study aims to develop a single index to measure and monitor individual/family and collective well-being i.e., a Quality of Life Index (QLI), that will be useful in informing public policy. The specific objectives are to review existing related frameworks and methodologies (e.g. Bhutan's Gross National Happiness Index, Thailand's Personal Well-being Index, etc.) and identify which fits best the country setting, develop a framework for determining quality of life for the Filipinos which are reflective of personal aspirations at the individual/household level, including but not limited to the following: (a) asset ownership (having car, money/savings), (b) housing, (c) per capita income, (d) productive work, (e) the ability to send all children to school and be educated, (f) travel and mobility, (g) time with family and friends, (h) aspiration for the family to live together in a place of their own, (i) strong sense of community, (j) long life, (k) healthy life, and (I) comfortable retirement and develop operational definition of qualitative core indicators in the PDP 2017-2022 such as (a) enhanced tolerance and respect for others, (b) heightened pride of place and pride of being Filipino, and (c) increased level of consumer awareness. To obtain these objectives, periodic consultations with NEDA, comprehensive review of literature, focus group discussions, and survey on 5,000 families (conducted by a survey firm outsourced by NEDA) were conducted to be able to arrive at the proposed methodology. The findings and proposed methodology of the research shall undergo review of NEDA to determine further research needed on the topic or possible adoption.

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