Author

Sheruel G. Matalandang
Mindanao State University
General Santos City, Philippines
Email: matalandangsheruel@gmail.com

Abstract

Rural-urban migration is a defining characteristic of developing countries like the Philippines, affecting political, demographic, and economic development in both rural and urban areas. This study examines the major causes of migration among street vendors from rural areas to General Santos City, focusing specifically on migrants from Sarangani Province. A qualitative approach was employed, selecting 14 migrant street vendors through snowball sampling. Data were collected using interviews with both open- and close-ended questions. The study revealed multiple factors driving migration. First, economic and livelihood challenges including unemployment, loss of income, landlessness, adverse land-to-population ratios, homelessness, and poverty serve as primary push factors. Second, political issues such as poor delivery of education, local political dynamics, and deteriorating peace and order in rural areas compel residents to migrate. Third, social factors, including marriage and access to health services, influence migration decisions. Fourth, environmental conditions, such as frequent and severe natural disasters and unproductive agricultural land, discourage rural livelihoods. Many prefer street vending, as it provides quicker income compared to the long gestation periods of agriculture. Migration to urban centers like General Santos City reflects a combination of economic, political, social, and environmental pressures. Understanding these drivers can help policymakers and development agencies address the push factors in rural areas, promote sustainable rural development, and improve urban management strategies. This study provides insights into the challenges faced by rural communities and the pathways through which migration affects both rural and urban development.

Keywords: Migration, rural-urban, push-factors, pull-factors, General Santos City

DOI: http://doi.org/10.69651/PIJHSS0501723

Recommended citation:
Matalandang, S. G. (2026). In search for the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow: The causes of rural-urban migration of street vendors from Sarangani Province to General Santos City Public Market. Pantao (The International Journal of the Humanities and Social Sciences) 5 (1), 7987-7993. http://doi.org/10.69651/PIJHSS0501723

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