ADB Report Highlights Grab’s Initiatives to Spur Economic Growth in PH

MANILA: According to a new study conducted independently by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the Grab super app is a key contributor to the economic growth in the Philippines.

Grab's innovative service model offered flexible livelihood opportunities amid the COVID-19 pandemic, mitigating the rise in unemployment and helping thousands of Filipinos withstand financial strain.

1,200 GrabFood delivery riders from Metro Manila, Cebu, and Davao took part in the research study. It was discovered that Grab's flexible work model and the resulting income stability have been significant to the riders during the economic crisis and, more generally, continue to act as a labor market buffer for those who might be unemployed or in need of extra side income. A large percentage of Grab riders expressed satisfaction with their employment, citing adequate earnings and flexible work schedule as the main reasons.

The operational risk of this type of job is also highlighted in the ADB report, which also stresses the necessity for affordable medical insurance plans to support the sustainability of this flexible self-employment model. Grab Philippines has a comprehensive health and safety policy for its delivery riders, providing accident and life insurance, medical allowance, access to prepaid ER HMO, hospital support, a 24/7 Grab Safety Hotline, Grab Academy safety training, and telemedicine services.

In addition, Grab is the first platform in the Philippines to provide its riders with a comprehensive social protection program. Grab even pays its riders' first-month contributions. This is the product of Grab's long-term partnerships with government agencies such as DOLE, SSS, PAGIBIG, and PhilHealth.

“The findings of the Asian Development Bank’s survey reaffirms that we are indeed living out our mission of creating flexible earning opportunities for thousands of Filipinos. We are committed to continuously enhance the livelihoods of our partners, deliver value to our consumers, while building a sustainable ecosystem for all our stakeholders,” Grab Philippines Country Head Grace Vera Cruz stated.

“This report also reminds us that there is always room for kaizen. We will continue to seek innovative solutions to further enhance our drivers’ welfare and safety while delivering exceptional services to our customers. Our goal is not just to be a super app – we aim to be a super partner to every Filipino,” she added.

Grab continues to offer essential services through its innovative platform economy model while fostering the livelihood and well-being of its riders. This serves as proof of how technology has the power to spur economic recovery and development.

Photos from Grab Philippines and Hazel Nicole Carreon

Also read:

Grab PH promises faster ride confirmations

Thousands of TNVS applicants attend latest leg of Grab’s caravan

LTFRB to grant addt’l 100K Grab franchises