The National Union of Food Delivery Riders in the Philippines has urged the government to recognise those in the gig economy as workers entitled with benefits and protection as guaranteed by labour laws and international labour standards, reports PhilStar. According to the union, it is necessary for the Filipino gig workers to organise to protect their rights and interests. In a statement, the group claimed that Delivery and Ride-hailing companies are notorious for avoiding employer-employee relationships at the expense of the drivers and riders that work under them.

The group said that behind every new app, software, and model that organises economic activities are countless workers that ensure the delivery of essential goods and services. “This is especially true in the gig economy, where drivers, delivery riders, and other workers cater to the needs of millions every single day,” read part of the statement. “We riders must band together and organise ourselves into unions and other associations so that we can demand the recognition of our rights,” the group added.