Grab Philippines and its motorcycle taxi partner MOVE IT, has collaborated with the Ateneo Bulatao Center for Psychological Services to overhaul the ride-hailing industry’s driver assessment, onboarding, and training processes. The partnership seeks to introduce a more comprehensive and data-driven approach to driver selection and performance evaluation, moving beyond traditional metrics such as driving skills tests and police records.
Scheduled for a pilot launch in Q2 2025, the initiative is designed to incorporate cognitive and behavioral factors into the driver evaluation process. The goal is to foster safer and more responsible driving behaviors by considering socio-demographic influences and passenger perceptions, as well as psychological factors that may impact road behavior.
Through this collaboration, Grab and MOVE IT aim to improve driver quality and strengthen the overall safety of the ride-hailing ecosystem. As part of the research phase, qualitative and quantitative methods, including interviews and focus groups, are being utilized to gather insights into driver habits, motivations, and attitudes. The findings will inform future policy changes and training programs, providing a more nuanced understanding of the factors that drive safe driving practices.
“At Grab, we are committed to continuous improvement,” said EJ Deal Vega, Grab Philippines director for Mobility. “This partnership with Ateneo will elevate our standards for driver assessment and training, ensuring that we reinforce behaviors aligned with our core values of safety and security.”
Wayne Jacinto, general manager of MOVE IT, emphasized the importance of safety as the company’s top priority as the motorcycle taxi industry continues to expand. “This initiative is crucial for enhancing safety and fostering a culture of responsible riding across the growing number of two-wheel drivers on the road.”
Maria Lourdes Mesa, director for research at the Ateneo Bulatao Center for Psychological Services, underscored the significance of addressing psychological factors in driver safety. “By integrating a behavior-focused approach into the assessment process, we are proactively addressing potential safety risks linked to psychological predispositions,” she explained.
The partnership marks a significant step forward in how the ride-hailing industry addresses human resource challenges, offering a blueprint for improving the long-term success and safety of driver-partners. The research phase is currently underway in Metro Manila, Cebu, and Davao, with plans for a broader rollout following the pilot.
