The idea for the ISP Cup came to me in 8th grade when I noticed something troubling at my tennis club. Coaches, trainers, and ball boys would privately reach out to members whenever they faced illness or injury. This is when I learned that, contrary to traditional employment, as Independent Service Providers (ISPs), they weren’t entitled to health coverage.

 

Realizing my inability to affect the large change necessary for solving this issue, I decided to take action in my own way. In lieu of a birthday party, I organized a charity tennis tournament, inviting friends, family, and club members to play in a fundraiser that would provide healthcare coverage for our ISP staff.

 

What started in 2022 as a small initiative has now become an annual event every April. Each year, we’ve managed to cover over 100 ISPs with PhilHealth coverage. This year, we are adding a private insurance policy to expand their protection.

 

As I prepare to leave for college next year, my goal is to pass this program onto a new advocate—someone who will ensure that our friends on the courts remain protected in times of need.

 

See you on the courts!

Joss