Rising fuel prices are continuing to squeeze both drivers and commuters in Metro Manila and beyond, and mobility platforms are increasingly stepping in with support measures to keep the balance between affordability and earnings intact.
Ride-hailing platform inDrive is rolling out a ₱2.7 million fuel voucher program aimed at helping its partner drivers offset operating costs amid sustained increases in fuel prices.
The initiative comes at a time when transport workers are grappling with thinner margins, as higher fuel expenses eat into daily take-home income.
The program is designed as a supplemental layer of support alongside government efforts, including the recently announced ₱5,000 fuel subsidy for transport workers such as TNVS drivers.
For many in the sector, these combined interventions are seen as critical in maintaining service continuity without forcing fare increases that would impact commuters.
Lower commissions to boost driver earnings
Beyond fuel assistance, inDrive is also expanding its driver-focused ecosystem through partnerships and incentive structures. The platform has renewed its collaboration with Seaoil, allowing drivers to access discounts via the Price LOCQ app at participating stations nationwide.
Drivers can also benefit from the Seaoil VIP Rides digital loyalty card, which offers a points-based system redeemable for fuel and vehicle-related expenses.
On the earnings side, the company is also introducing targeted incentives such as “Purple Zones”—high-demand areas where drivers can enjoy significantly reduced commission rates as low as 1% when picking up passengers within designated zones.
Outside these zones, inDrive maintains a 10% commission, which it positions as one of the lowest in the industry.
Balancing driver earnings, commuter access amid fuel pressures
These adjustments are part of a broader effort to help drivers retain more of their earnings while maintaining service availability for commuters.
The platform also continues to shoulder mandated discounts for senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and students, ensuring these benefits do not reduce driver income.
According to inDrive Philippines country manager Sofia Guinto, the initiatives are intended to provide sustainable, community-centered support amid ongoing cost pressures. She noted that drivers rely heavily on each trip as a source of livelihood, making fuel costs a critical concern in their day-to-day operations.
As fuel prices remain volatile, mobility platforms in the Philippines are increasingly finding themselves in a position where operational policies, incentive schemes, and partnerships play a direct role in shaping both driver welfare and commuter experience.
