To give commuters more transport options and generate more jobs, President Marcos revealed the government’s discussion with Grab Philippines to legalize motorcycle taxis and ease regulations on transportation network vehicle service (TNVS).
The super-app company also sought the President’s support to achieve its ridership target of 500,000 per day, Malacañang said.
“We’re working with Grab to legalize motorcycle taxis and relax regulations on TNVS,” President Marcos said during a courtesy call by Grab Holdings Inc. officials at Malacañang Palace.
“More transport options will benefit commuters, drivers, and MSMEs,” he added.
President Marcos also commended Grab’s contribution to boosting employment opportunities in the country, citing the car-hailing app’s impact on the nation’s economy.
“Your impact on unemployment numbers comprises about 1.1 percent of the increase in employment in the past year and half. That was Grab, so that’s the 300,000 that we’re talking about that has a significant effect,” President Marcos said.
Grab CEO Anthony Tan told the President that since the successful acquisition of motorcycle taxi firm Move It, the company was doing 8,000 rides a day, which has now ballooned to over 300,000 every day, highlighting the improved livelihood opportunities in transport service.
“So, it’s not just about the number of jobs, Mr. President, it’s the quality, increasing livelihood,” Tan told Mr. Marcos.
Seeking the President’s backing, Grab outlined its ambitious plans to double its daily ridership from 300,000 to 500,000.
Tan expressed confidence that achieving this target within six months is possible with the government’s support.
The company previously advocated for the deregulation of TNVS and the legalization of motorcycle taxis.
However, the Department of Transportation said it requires further evaluation and data analysis before the agency decides on making any changes in its policies.