Why it matters:
The steep uptick in fuel costs poses a growing threat to driver earnings and passenger affordability—two pillars that sustain the platform’s ecosystem. Grab’s strategy aims to address immediate challenges while laying the foundation for long-term transport stability.
What’s happening:
Grab Philippines is launching a Fuel Resilience Package nationwide, targeting its most active driver and rider partners. The package offers:
Exclusive fuel discounts via partner fuel stations
Enhanced in-app fuel-efficiency tools
Smart trip-matching powered by GrabMaps
“We recognize the growing pressure on our partners due to rising fuel costs,” said Ronald Roda, Grab Philippines managing director. “Our priority is to provide immediate, targeted support, while also contributing to long-term efforts to make Philippine transport more resilient, stable, and less vulnerable to external volatility.”
Government collaboration:
Grab is actively coordinating with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to facilitate targeted fuel subsidies for TNVS and motorcycle taxi drivers. Discussions include using GrabPay for seamless subsidy disbursement.
Driver support = passenger protection:
Grab’s cost-management support helps keep ride fares affordable. Key offerings include:
GrabCar Saver, an economical ride option
GrabUnlimited, a monthly subscription for discounted rides and deliveries
“Affordability remains a core principle for us,” Roda added. By supporting its partners, he stressed, Grab is also protecting passengers — ensuring that transport cost remains affordable.
The bigger picture – EVs and resilience:
Grab is moving beyond fuel relief by accelerating its electric vehicle (EV) roadmap. It recently launched a GrabTaxi Electric fleet in Metro Manila and plans nationwide scale-up in collaboration with EV manufacturers and government stakeholders.
“This is about future-proofing Philippine mobility,” Roda emphasized. “We’ve long relied on our fuel and energy partners to keep the country moving. As global conditions grow more complex, we also see the value in broadening our approach – combining traditional and alternative solutions to provide drivers and commuters with greater long-term stability.”
“We may not control the price of oil, but we can shape how we respond – as a platform, an industry, and a nation,” Roda said. “At Grab, our role is to protect livelihoods now, while helping build a stronger, more stable transport future for Filipinos.” —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
