Why Riders Are an Emerging Segment That Cannot Be Ignored

Did you know that the Philippines adds 160,000 new motorcycles every month? According to data from the Land Transportation Authority, as reported by ABS-CBN News, Filipinos purchase up to 8,000 new motorcycles daily. 
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However, not all motorcycles are used solely for personal use. With food delivery platforms like foodpanda projected to be a key driver of e-commerce in the Philippines, the number of delivery riders is also expected to grow alongside it.
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With riders becoming an integral part of urban cities, their importance for different businesses can’t be overstated. But why are they so crucial?
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Riders Will Drive More E-Commerce Growth
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Consumers in the Philippines continue to propel the demand for fast and efficient delivery services. Platforms like foodpanda report that delivery remains a primary driver of e-commerce growth.
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Despite many Filipinos being more conscious of their spending in 2025, order volumes continue to peak during lunchtime, dinnertime, and weekends—periods when riders play a critical role in ensuring timely deliveries. As long as convenience remains a priority for consumers, riders will continue to fuel the e-commerce engine.
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Riders Must Be Tech-Savvy
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With the shift towards digital transactions, riders are at the forefront of payment interactions. On foodpanda, for example, cash remains the leading payment method at 51%, while digital payments account for 49%. This growing adoption of cashless transactions highlights the increasing importance of financial literacy among riders.
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Aside from payments, riders must use GPS navigation apps to optimize routes and reduce delivery times. Additionally, riders need to manage in-app wallets for receiving earnings, necessitating they are adept at leveraging digital tools. Not only do they transport goods, but they are also the face of a tech-driven ecosystem connecting businesses with consumers.
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Riders Need Access to Financial Solutions
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Working in the gig economy, many riders face challenges accessing traditional financial services. Many do not qualify for credit cards, personal loans, or insurance plans.
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Who best to fill in the blank other than fintech? From solutions based on alternative credit scoring to loans with lower interest fees, the dynamic nature of fintech companies allows them to create new products and services that older banks can’t.  
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Opportunities for Strategic Partnerships
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The rising importance of riders opens the door to collaborations between fintech companies, logistics providers, and e-commerce platforms alike. While fintech firms have a lot to gain by creating solutions and services tailored towards riders, logistics, and delivery platforms can also benefit from collaborations with fuel providers, motorcycle brands, and maintenance service companies to offer exclusive deals and incentives to boost rider retention and operational efficiency.
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By fostering these collaborations, businesses can create an ecosystem that supports and empowers riders, ultimately leading to greater efficiency and economic growth.
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The Road Ahead for Riders
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No matter the business, riders are set to play an even bigger role in 2025.
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How do you think businesses can better support and empower riders? What solutions would make their work easier and more rewarding? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Article by Pancho Dizon
Graphic by Brennan Cahilig