In a bid to counter rising fuel prices, Grab Philippines has launched a wide-ranging transport resilience strategy in close coordination with the Department of Transportation (DOTr), targeting both immediate relief for drivers and longer-term industry sustainability.
Central to the initiative is the proposed disbursement of government fuel subsidies through GrabPay, aimed at transport network vehicle services (TNVS) and motorcycle taxi drivers. According to Grab Philippines, discussions with the DOTr are ongoing to structure a streamlined, digital-first distribution system that ensures quick and targeted assistance to drivers most impacted by fuel price hikes.
“We are working hand-in-hand with the government to make subsidy access faster and more transparent for our driver-partners,” said Ronald Roda, managing director of Grab Philippines. “This partnership is essential in mitigating the effects of global fuel volatility on local transportation services.”
Grab’s short-term response includes the rollout of a fuel resilience package, offering exclusive fuel discounts and efficiency tools for its most active drivers and delivery riders. The move aims to contain operational costs and prevent fare surges, with budget-conscious services such as GrabCar Saver and GrabUnlimited helping to ease the burden on commuters.
In the longer term, Grab is ramping up its shift to electric mobility. The company has started deploying an electric GrabTaxi fleet in Metro Manila, developed in partnership with local EV manufacturers and supported by government stakeholders. The move is part of a broader drive to build a more shock-resistant, eco-conscious transport system for the Philippines.
“While we cannot control global fuel prices, we are taking decisive steps to protect livelihoods and commuter access,” Roda added. “We’re future-proofing Philippine transport through innovation, collaboration, and sustained public-private efforts.”
The partnership signals a growing alignment between private platforms and public agencies in managing the economic impact of fuel instability—critical for both the transport workforce and millions of daily commuters.
