Ride-hailing app companies Grab and Move It have rolled out multi-layered support programs for their driver and rider partners. This comes as the Philippines faces rising fuel costs amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which have affected global oil prices.
For drivers and riders who shoulder fuel costs daily, the spike has raised concerns about sustainability and income stability. To address this, both platforms launched a three-pronged support strategy focused on fuel cost relief, earnings protection, and government engagement.
Under the fuel cost relief, drivers can access discounts of up to P4 per liter at Caltex, Seaoil, and Blu Energy fueling stations nationwide. Moreover, nearly 20,000 eligible drivers may benefit from a P3-per-liter rebate through the Grab Finance Shell Fuel Card program, which runs until March 31, 2026.
On the earnings side, Grab has adjusted its incentive structure for GrabCar drivers by introducing commission rebates and per-trip cashback, particularly during peak hours. Meanwhile, GrabFood delivery rider partners will receive a P3 bonus per completed order, regardless of hours logged.
Meanwhile, Move It recently launched its “Power Pasada” program. The initiative provides monthly fuel allowances for its active motorcycle taxi riders, as well as additional incentives during high-demand periods.
Industry stakeholders note that without intervention, rising fuel costs could push driver and rider partners offline, reducing service availability for commuters. The current measures aim to maintain both driver and rider participation and service reliability.
Grab and Move It are also working with government agencies, including the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), to align support measures. A separate P5,000 fuel subsidy from the government through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), in coordination with the DOTr, is also being extended for affected transport workers, including transport network vehicle service (TNVS) drivers.
“Our immediate priority is to help ensure that our drivers continue to earn viably and fairly for their families, while preserving service reliability for passengers and the sustainability of the platform as we collectively navigate volatility in the global fuel market,” shared Grab Philippines Managing Director Ronald Roda.
Autocar’s Take
The timing of the driver and rider support programs shows how exposed gig-based transport workers are to fuel price volatility. While the discounts and incentives provide short-term relief, they also highlight a structural issue: driver and rider partners absorb most operational risks. Programs like Power Pasada and per-trip bonuses are practical steps, but their sustainability depends on how long fuel prices remain high.
The inclusion of TNVS drivers in government subsidies is a positive development, underscoring their role in public mobility. Moving forward, closer coordination among platforms such as Grab and Move It, and with policymakers, will be critical to ensure that support measures remain responsive and sufficient.
