MANILA (UPDATE) - The Philippine population is estimated to reach 110.8 million at the onset of 2021, the Commission on Population and Development (POPCOM) said Wednesday.

This is an increase from 109.4 million from the onset of 2020.

POPCOM also projected a 1.31 percent growth rate for 2021, slower than the 1.68 percent growth rate tallied for 2016.

In an interview with ABS-CBN News, POPCOM Director Undersecretary Juan Perez said the slower growth rate is attributed to the slower growth rate observed since 2012, when the Philippines last tallied a faster growth rate.

This, he said may be attributed to the preference of couples to have smaller families, catching on with a worldwide phenomenon.

"Women are opting for lower fertility, and smaller families. So that’s not just a Filipino trend and the Philippines was rather late in catching up so we’re latecomers to the international phenomenons," Perez said.

While noting a slower growth rate, POPCOM said the population may swell at 111.1 million, reiterating the possibility of increase in unplanned pregnancies brought about by coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic restrictions such as lockdowns.

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Perez said the number of lockdown babies may peak "in the next six months" but maintained that the lockdown boom may only be a "year-long phenomenon" as talks for the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccine continue.

POPCOM also said senior citizens in the country "will exceed 10 million for the first time" and may make it challenging for health services.

By 2021, the working age group will reach 71.2 million people - comprising of 64.15 percent of the entire Philippine population.

Perez reminded Filipinos, particularly small families, to utilize their family planning services.

-- With reports from April Rafales, ABS-CBN News

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