Gig worker insurer Gigacover debuts in the Philippines 

The Singapore-based insurer plans to launch financial services products in Q1 2022.

Singapore-headquartered health insurance platform Gigacover has announced its expansion into the Philippines.

According to Gigacover, the market entry is aimed at empowering, protecting, and supporting the Filipino informal workforce with more tailored, comprehensive and inclusive benefits through enhanced finance and insurance options tailored for the informal workers.

With an office located in Makati, Metro Manila, Gigacover’s Philippines operations will be managed by a team of 20, and will be headed by Sebastian San as Country Manager. Sebastian brings with him a track record of success and a clear understanding of the needs of the gig workforce, being personally involved in driving sustained growth for Gigacover Singapore. He will oversee all aspects of the business for Gigacover Philippines, and will also work towards doubling local headcount by the end of 2022 to support its in-country expansion efforts.

Working in partnership with Etiqa and Aventus Medical, Gigacover will be able to offer more inclusive insurance and healthcare options tailored for the informal work. For instance, Gigacover’s Freelancer Earnings Protection (FLEP) provides informal workers with access to paid medical and sick leaves. It covers both major and minor accidents or illnesses, aiming to provide better coverage, stability and benefits that are often associated only with regular employment.

Flexible and cost-effective group insurance and healthcare options will also be offered to employers, demonstrating how safety nets can be inclusive, flexible, comprehensive, and yet still remain affordable. In addition to its existing suite of products, Gigacover will also be launching financial services products in the Philippines in Q1 2022, aiming to increase access to capital and banking services to an often underserved yet essential segment of the workforce.

“We are excited to play a leading role in providing inclusive benefits and improving the social security of the Philippines’ gig workforce. Beyond just a typical insurance provider, Gigacover is a financial platform that works with insurance companies and financial institutions to provide benefits tailored to the gig workforce in Southeast Asia. We are honoured at the trust that Gogo Xpress powered by QuadX and FHMoms has placed in Gigacover, and will continue to work towards enhancing social protection for Southeast Asia’s gig workforce,” said Amerson Lin, co-founder and CEO of Gigacover.