A new user behavior study conducted by Carousell — one of the world’s largest and fastest growing classifieds — shows that Filipinos largely adapted to the lockdowns around the country by making the best of what they have, through selling and buying. During the lockdown period, the average Filipino has earned P55,000 selling on Carousell.
Filipinos made more than 450,000 transactions for second hand items to earn extra money. For many, this was to save for rainy days, supplement income, or even to cushion the blow of losing a job during the pandemic.
Carousell user Jhocen, who was forced to pause her full-time work and sold her preloved and vintage items on Carousell to keep her afloat, earned over P10,000 on Carousell during quarantine.
But many others sold their items with a different purpose in mind, as Carousell user Ashley decided to start an initiative with a few of her friends, to raise funds for those who lost their sources of income during the quarantine.
“During the Lenten season, I wanted to be more proactive in fundraising for those affected by the quarantine and decided to sell my items and donate 100% of the proceeds,” said Ashley.
Similarly, Gabbi listed her secondhand clothes to raise funds as she “wanted to help daily wage earners and local businesses.” The quarantine period prompted her to notice how important everyday frontliners such as “Kuya” couriers were, how difficult their situation was, and how many still needed help with their jobs being cut.
Yet, even with this rise in conscious resourcefulness, there is still a lot more value to be unlocked in selling underused items. On Carousell’s marketplace alone, Filipinos could be selling an additional P3.8 billion worth of second hand items.
Originally published on The Daily Tribune.
