One of the highlights during the recent Tech Week PH in Davao, organized by PLDT Enterprise, was Grab Philippines' technology-driven approach, which enhances every aspect of its service, benefiting drivers, customers, and small business owners alike. Platforms like Grab are not only revolutionizing transportation but also playing a crucial role in supporting the livelihood of drivers, ensuring customer safety, and promoting local businesses.
As Grab Philippines strengthens its services in Mindanao, it also enhances its technology features to provide a reliable system for safety and transparency. One key feature, Audio Protect, enables Grab to record conversations between drivers and customers when enabled. This helps prevent disputes, especially in cases of misunderstandings about locations or directions. Recordings from Audio Protect are securely stored and will only be accessed if a report related to the ride is filed, supporting investigations and the resolution of safety-related concerns. Additionally, the app accurately pinpoints the customer’s location, ensuring smoother and more efficient rides.
According to CJ Lacsican, Vice President for Cities at Grab Philippines, during her speech at Tech Week PH, the platform aims to protect both drivers and customers by leveraging technology to detect potential road hazards.
“For example, if an unforeseen event or roadblock occurs, the system can alert drivers in real-time, helping them avoid dangerous situations and ensuring their safety. With data covering nearly 200 areas across the Philippines, Grab continuously monitors and updates routes to keep both parties safe,” Lacsican added.
Beyond transportation, Grab is helping local businesses thrive. A key part of Grab’s ecosystem is its support for small businesses, particularly restaurants. By partnering with local businesses, Grab not only helps them reach more customers but also offers opportunities for increased sales and growth. Whether it’s through microfinancing, which provides small businesses with access to necessary funds, or through added exposure via Grab’s platform, these partnerships create a win-win situation for all.
Lacsican highlights how Grab empowers its drivers and small business partners through its approach to microfinancing. This allows operators and small business owners to access funds to grow their businesses, purchase equipment, or hire additional staff.
“Microfinancing is also a valuable tool for restaurant owners looking to expand operations, from hiring cooking staff to improving delivery logistics. In turn, this supports the broader economy by helping businesses create more job opportunities and boosting local economic activity,” she shared.
In regions like Zamboanga, Butuan, and General Santos, Grab’s presence has made a significant impact. By offering increased earnings for drivers and providing an accessible platform for local businesses, Grab is helping to drive economic growth across the country. The app provides an easy-to-use, everyday solution for customers, allowing them to access transportation and food delivery services in a way that is convenient, safe, and reliable.
During Tech Week PH, Grab also highlighted its platform which provides small businesses with the opportunity to overcome challenges. In the event of any issues involving drivers or business owners, Grab’s customer support is always ready to resolve problems quickly and efficiently. This responsive approach ensures that both customers and small business owners feel heard and supported, fostering trust in the platform.
Through innovative technologies, strong community ties, and a focus on safety, Grab reinforces its role as more than just a ride-hailing service — it is a vital driver of local economic growth. By bringing people together, empowering drivers, supporting businesses, and creating new opportunities, Grab Philippines continues to shape the way communities move and thrive across the country.
In the same spirit, PLDT Enterprise, through Tech Week PH, fosters meaningful discussions on emerging technologies tailored to the interests of its diverse attendees across the Philippines. This platform empowers businesses to exchange insights and enables tech enthusiasts, students, MSMEs, decision-makers, global partners, and large enterprises to explore digital solutions that fuel economic growth and spark industry innovation. AJA