Study urges support for gig workers

Study urges support for gig workers | Daily Tribune

Global market research firm Ipsos is calling for stronger government and industry support for Filipino gig workers, citing the need for better access to digital tools, infrastructure, and social protections to sustain the country’s growing gig economy.

In its Gig Life PH study, Ipsos found that gig workers heavily rely on digital platforms for income opportunities but continue to face gaps in access to technology, upskilling programs, and financial security.

The report pointed out that technology remains the “backbone” of the gig economy; however, workers in underserved areas continue to struggle with poor connectivity and limited access to online freelance markets.

The nationwide survey found that 59 percent of Filipinos enter gig work primarily to earn extra income, while 47 percent said flexible hours were a major draw. Another 35 percent cited the ability to work from anywhere as a key advantage.

Despite income instability — monthly earnings fluctuate by 10 percent to more than 30 percent — 78 percent of respondents said they are satisfied with gig work due to its earning potential and flexibility.

Ipsos Strategy3 Principal Christine Dugay said over the weekend that the growth of platform-based work is reshaping how Filipinos earn, but sustainability remains a challenge.

“Gig workers value flexibility and the opportunity to increase their income, yet they also clearly want fair pay standards and comprehensive, portable benefits,” Dugay said.

“We find that there are significant opportunities for government and platforms to further support gig workers in building a balanced ecosystem that powers growth and drives labor market transformation in the country,” she added.

The study also found that six in ten Filipinos view gig work as a strategic, long-term career option, while 30 percent said they plan to stay in gig work indefinitely. Still, most workers — 61 percent — engage in gig work part-time to supplement full-time jobs or business income.

Gig workers also seek financial stability, with 64 percent saving for retirement and 58 percent prioritizing healthcare access. Many prefer self-managed benefits over employer-dependent systems, the study showed.

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), which supported the study, said the findings will guide policy reforms and workforce development programs.

“The data, insights, and findings from the ‘Gig Life PH’ study of Ipsos Strategy3 are invaluable to us, as these help frame the realities of the gig workers of the Philippines. Studies like these are relevant and are directly aligned with our mission to create digital and digitally-enabled jobs,” DICT ICT Industry Development Bureau Director III Jhino B. Ilano said.

The study noted that access to training remains critical, pointing to DICT’s ASCEND and SPARK programs, which equip online freelancers with advanced skills and global certifications for higher-value digital work.