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Digital platform workers’ access to employee protection and social security

Platform workers in the Philippines describe their access to protection and social security in these terms –

Benefits and protectionsprovided by platforms Social security mechanismsfrom the governments

EMPLOYEE PROTECTION

What benefits and protections are offered to workers by platforms?

Are employee protection benefits well advertised by platforms and easy to access for digital platform workers?

“

I enrolled in the insurance that the platform offers, which costs 170 pesos per month, so I am insured. This is separate from the accident or life insurance that the platform provides to all riders. I chose to avail of this additional insurance because it covers not only me but also, my beneficiary. I cannot recall the name of the insurance company since it is part of a partnership with the platform, but the option is available to riders who want to sign up. I prefer having it because we never know what might happen, and it is better to be prepared in case of an accident.”

- José, ridesharing worker,

Manila, the Philippines

What challenges do digital platform workers face in accessing these benefits?

Platforms in the Philippines have tie-ups with third-party insurers and workers can enroll via platforms to avail these insurance benefits by paying a premium. Workers described choosing to pay in order to protect themselves and their family members. While this can turn out to be beneficial during emergencies, not all workers can afford to pay premiums for private insurance.

Social security mechanisms from the governments

How many digital platform workers are aware of government social security schemes and receive benefits?

A striking factor that makes the Philippines stand out is the high level of awareness of government social protection, with all workers being aware of one or more such provisions. This was especially high for PhilHealth, the social pension program and Pag-IBIG. Despite 100% almost all workers reporting awareness of some schemes, access numbers were quite dismal. This highlights a significant gap between awareness and coverage of digital platform economy workers.