Why AXA Philippines Is Prioritizing the Underserved Workforce

AXA Philippines is closing the protection gap for gig workers like delivery riders and drivers

through inclusive insurance solutions. Here's how they're making a difference.

The Unsung Heroes of the Road: How AXA Is Empowering Gig Workers with Financial Security

In the hustle and bustle of city life, there’s a group of workers who keep everything moving—literally. From delivering food and parcels to ferrying passengers across Metro Manila, gig workers like delivery riders and ride-hailing drivers have become essential to our daily routines. They work long hours, brave traffic, and face risks every time they hit the road—all to provide for their families and keep the economy going.

And yet, despite their critical role in society, many of these workers go without the basic protections that traditional employees enjoy: health insurance, accident coverage, and financial safety nets.

This is the reality AXA Philippines is stepping up to change.

Bridging the Gap in a Fast-Changing Workforce

The gig economy in the Philippines is booming. According to the Philippine Institute for Development Studies, freelance earnings grew by a staggering 208% between 2019 and 2020 alone. That’s a clear sign that more Filipinos are turning to freelance and platform-based work as a primary source of income.

But while the numbers look good, the truth beneath the surface is harder to ignore: most gig workers still operate without proper insurance coverage. This means one accident or medical emergency could wipe out their savings or push their families into debt.

Recognizing this massive gap, AXA Philippines—one of the country’s leading life insurance providers—is bringing protection where it’s needed most.

Real Protection for Real People

Through its global inclusive insurance unit, AXA EssentiALL, the company is delivering affordable, relevant, and sustainable insurance solutions tailored for underserved communities. With a presence in 14 countries and over 14 million customers worldwide, this initiative is all about making financial protection accessible to everyone—especially those who’ve been left out of the traditional system.

In the Philippines, that mission is coming to life through a powerful partnership between AXA Philippines, PhilPacific Insurance Brokers & Managers, Inc. (Philinsure), Grab, and MOVE IT.

Together, they’re offering up to ₱1 million in insurance coverage to thousands of Grab and MOVE IT riders through an incentive-based program. That means hardworking riders and drivers can stay focused on the job, knowing they’re covered if something unexpected happens.

“Every Worker Deserves Protection”

For Ayman Kandil, AXA Philippines President and CEO, this initiative hits close to home.

“Ensuring inclusive protection has always been a core part of our mission,” Kandil says. “At AXA, we believe that every worker, regardless of employment status, deserves financial security and support. Gig workers demonstrate the same dedication, hard work, and competence as traditional employees, and it’s time they have access to the protection they deserve.”

This isn’t just about policies and premiums—it’s about dignity, fairness, and peace of mind. It’s about saying to the everyday rider weaving through traffic or the freelancer working late into the night: “We see you. You matter. And we’ve got your back.”

A Shared Vision for a More Secure Future

Philinsure, a key partner in the program, brings years of experience in microinsurance and shares AXA’s vision of a financially secure future for all. By combining innovation and empathy, this collaboration proves that meaningful change happens when companies come together with a shared purpose.

And for Grab Philippines, protecting their partners goes hand in hand with empowering them.

“We want our driver- and delivery-partners to thrive, not just survive,” says a representative from Grab. “That means giving them access to the protection they need to build a better future.”

Moving Forward Together

As the way we work continues to evolve, so must the way we protect those who work. AXA Philippines is proving that inclusive, thoughtful insurance isn’t just possible—it’s essential.

By investing in the lives of gig workers today, AXA is helping build a safer, more resilient tomorrow.

Learn more about AXA Philippines’ inclusive insurance programs for gig workers:

www.axa.com.ph