Nearly eight in ten Filipino gig workers are satisfied with the flexibility and earnings potential of their work, but most still worry about job security and long-term benefits, according to a new Ipsos study.
The white paper, “Gig Life PH: Understanding the Realities and Preferences of Filipino Gig Workers”, surveyed 1,500 workers across Metro Manila, Cebu, and Davao between March 29 and April 28, 2025. The study paints a detailed picture of the country’s growing gig economy, highlighting both opportunities and challenges.
Key findings:
- Age and Gender: Workers aged 25 to 34 make up the largest share of the gig workforce at 37%. Non-location-based gigs, such as online freelancing, attract more women (62%), while location-based jobs like delivery and ride-hailing are dominated by men (76%).
- Education: Non-location-based gig workers tend to be more educated compared to those in location-based roles.
- Motivations: The primary driver is supplemental income, with 59% saying they turned to gig work to earn extra. Flexibility is also highly valued, with 47% citing control over schedules and 35% enjoying location freedom.
- Career Outlook: Six in ten respondents see gig work as a long-term career path, while about 30% have no plans to leave the gig economy.
- Satisfaction vs. Concerns: While 78% expressed satisfaction, concerns persist around unstable earnings, fair pay, and lack of social protection. Notably, 64% of respondents said retirement planning and benefits are crucial.
Christine Dugay, principal at Ipsos Strategy3 in the Philippines, noted that while platforms have helped workers build financial resilience, “volatile earnings, pay disparities, and limited social protection remain significant issues.”
The report also calls for greater access to digital tools and stronger ICT infrastructure, especially in underserved areas. Upskilling programs supported by government agencies such as the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) were also cited as essential to help gig workers stay competitive.
