Mental health affects everyone, yet it’s often overlooked. Feeling stressed, anxious, or down at times is normal, but when these feelings persist, they can weigh heavily on daily life—something 42-year-old father Jameson Cerdan experienced firsthand when the pandemic took away his job. He felt like his world had literally gone dark. He locked himself in a room with the curtains drawn, too weighed down by depression to face the days. “Iyon talaga ‘yong pinakamalungkot sa’kin kasi walang-wala. Gusto kong magtrabaho pero hindi naman ako makapasok,” he recalls.
Jameson’s story is far from unique. Job loss during the pandemic left thousands of Filipinos struggling to provide for their families, and even as the economy recovers, many continue to face the aftershocks. A 2024 MindNation survey found that 72% of Filipino workers reported stress, 68% experienced constant worry, and half said they felt persistent sadness—figures that remain higher than pre-pandemic levels. For most, financial pressure was the biggest trigger.
Finding a Way Back
For Jameson, the turning point came when he stumbled on an ad for foodpanda Logistics looking for freelance riders. With nothing left to lose, he signed up. Just three days later, he was back on the road.
What started as a way to put food on the table slowly became a way to rebuild his confidence.
“Talagang super laki ng naitulong sa’kin kasi nga galing ako sa depression. Dahil sa foodpanda Logistics, ang dami kong nakakasalamuhang tao; yung confidence ko, nanunumbalik at lumalakas.”
Every completed delivery was a small victory. His motivation was the idea that he could still step up for his children. “Pag-uwi ko, tinatanong nila, ‘Daddy, ano dala mo?’ Siyempre, may ulam lagi.”
A Way Forward
Jameson soon realized that this new chapter in his life gave him more than financial stability—it gave him freedom. As a freelance rider, he could manage his own time, earn on his own terms, and still be present for his family.
Over time, he even found a new purpose in helping other riders. Through his personal vlog, Jameson shares practical tips on logging in, signing up, and handling challenges on the road. “Mga content ko is about paano mag log-in, paano mag-duty. Tingin ko super helpful noong pag-vlog ko kasi yung ibang rider nalalaman nila kung ano gagawin nila.”
When fellow riders face difficulties, Jameson is one of the first to show up. “Kapag may nakikita akong inaapi-api, ako nakikipagtalo. Para sakin, pamilya na rin ang food delivery community.” That sense of solidarity became part of his healing. The gig economy may be different from traditional jobs, but for many riders like Jameson, it creates support systems and a sense of purpose that boost mental well-being.
Everyday Heroes of the Gig Economy
Today, Jameson is far from who he was before he found a job that worked for him. He rides daily, proudly provides for his family, and continues to grow his online community of riders. “Hindi kami magsasawa kasi masarap sa pakiramdam kung nakakatulong ka,” he shares.
As the country observes Mental Health Month, Jameson’s story reminds us that with the right opportunities and a strong community, we can find our way back from darkness one small win, one delivery, and one day at a time.
