Grab devising sharing scheme

Transport Network Vehicle Service provider Grab Philippines said Tuesday it is crafting a new commission scheme, likely to be implemented before the year ends, to allow its partner drivers to maximize their earning potential.

Amid speculations of an alleged two percent commission rate increase, Grab clarified that it continues to engage its community of partners to ensure that the adjusted scheme will protect their income.

“Grab has engaged its partners to co-develop the commission scheme, and it was only announced to the driver community upon reaching a full consensus from its driver community leaders, and after multiple rounds of consultations and forums,” Grab Philippines said. “This commission scheme, as part of its overall Ka-Grab Rewards program, has been well received by Grab partners as it introduces new mechanisms that allow partners who drive the most on the platform to further maximize their earning potential,” it added.

Gov’t must check

At a press conference on Tuesday, Jun de Leon, national president of transport group Laban TNVS, said the proposed new commission scheme needs to be scrutinized by government regulators. “As prices of basic commodities and services shoot up, any added centavo to fuel price and commission of transport network companies will only mean deduction to the already low income we take home for our families,” he said. However, Grab Philippines argued that the new commission rate framework would include a new fare rebate program — enabling drivers who are more frequently on the road, to receive larger cash payouts.