Grab Philippines is rolling out partnerships and new services to handle a sharp rise in holiday demand, as heavy traffic continues to slow down ride-hailing trips.
The company said traffic congestion is extending travel times by 20 percent to 25 percent during peak hours, reducing the number of trips TNVS drivers can complete. This comes on top of a projected 36 percent jump in ride-hailing demand in the fourth quarter, tightening supply across Metro Manila.
To ease the strain, Grab is working with New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) to reduce pickup bottlenecks at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, where demand has already grown by more than 30 percent this year. Grab is also coordinating with the Department of Transportation and the LTFRB to ensure more ride options are available throughout the season.
Grab will deploy free airport shuttle services during peak holiday periods — December 5–8, 12–16, and 19–22 — operating from 4:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. The shuttles will run from NAIA Terminal 3 to the One Ayala transport hub to help passengers reach other public transit options when GrabCars are fully booked. The company has also expanded its 24-hour concierge at Terminal 3.
Grab Philippines managing director Ronaldo Roda acknowledged that the holidays will be challenging, but said the company has been preparing since early this year to keep services accessible. NNIC general manager Angelito Alvarez welcomed the added support, saying more transport options make a “big difference” during the airport’s busiest weeks.
