A Communication Approach Towards Decent Work Measurement: The Case of Filipina Gig Workers Using Online Platforms
Article

This paper proposes the use of a communication approach to decent work measurement, arguing on (1) the interdisciplinary nature of decent work, (2) the mediated aspect of gig work using platforms, and (3) the use of a communicative lens to center the experiences of women in the Global South. As a communication theory, Dutta’s Culture-Centered Approach (CCA) tenets—culture, structure, and agency—were applied to the narratives on working aspirations (i.e., opportunities, social protection, adequate working time and workload, meaningful remuneration, and health and safety) of Filipina gig workers using online platforms. With the goal of empirical saturation, in-depth interviews were conducted among thirty-two informants, including those involved in transactional transfer work in major delivery services, local delivery services, and independent work through social media. The online platforms included applications by major transport and delivery service providers in the Philippines (i.e., Grab, Angkas, Joyride, Lalamove) and those that use social media platforms, particularly Facebook and Facebook Messenger. Findings reveal rich and gendered work experiences on working aspirations. These narratives were then translated into decent work measures.