Role of Subjective Perceptions and Migration Culture in the Formation of Migration Intentions: Evidence from a Rural Village in the Philippines

Abstract

This paper analyzes intention formation as an important part of migration decision-making process among prospective migrants. Bringing out the nuances and examining factors that facilitate premigration decision-making process may be useful in designing efforts to anticipate or even influence migration flows. Using primary data, this study analyzes the role of individuals’ perceptions of their households’ wellbeing and the prevailing political and economic environment in their area. The results show that their migration intentions are nuanced. While some respondents formed more decisive intentions to migrate, others indicated weak desire to seek opportunities abroad in the future. This study finds that having a more decisive migration plan is correlated with age, being male, having prior migration experience, existing household migration culture, and low level of satisfaction with the welfare of one’s household.