Davao City is now considered as one of the busiest and advanced metropolis in the country.
Its economy has grown tremendously and massive developments can be seen everywhere. It is regarded as the powerhouse and center of trade and commerce not only in the region but Mindanao as well.
Davao City’s progress led to a continuously growing population, which resulted to the perennial problem of transportation and traffic.
Daily commute became one of the challenges and every Dabawenyo dreams of easier and hassle-free travel around the city.
This dream is now a reality as Southeast Asia’s leading transport app GrabCar has finally arrived in Davao City.
Grab Philippines officially launched its flagship mobility service GrabCar in Davao City on Friday, October 13, 2023.
What does this mean?
With just a click, Dabawenyos can now e-hail a car from any corner of the city and get a ride in minutes. Waiting for public utility jeepneys or trying to find a cab on the street are now things of the past.
“In terms of mobility, the introduction of GrabCar is our initial step towards weaving a network that connects lives, nurtures businesses, and sustains the bustling energy of Mindanao. We are humbled and excited to offer you the means of mobility and we are optimistic that GrabCar will make your transportation ecosystem more dynamic and robust,” said Grace Vera Cruz, country manager of Grab Philippines.
Yet, Grab not only provides the safest and most convenient rides for passengers in Davao City but also offers livelihood opportunities to the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) not only in Davao but in the entire Mindanao island.
In Mindanao, which is renowned for its rich cultural legacy and natural riches, Grab Philippines is initiating a comprehensive campaign intending to empower local communities, assist micro-business owners, and promote economic growth in response to the region’s enormous potential.
“MSMEs across Davao and Mindanao have so much to offer and it warms my heart every time I see a business from Mindanao thriving on a national and global stage. I am very optimistic that through collaboration we will ensure that every MSME from Mindanao grows stronger, every dream soars higher,” Cruz said.
Based on the study conducted by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Mindanao contribute over 60 percent to the region’s total employment.
Grab Philippines is committed to providing targeted support to micro-entrepreneurs in Mindanao, enabling them to leverage Grab’s platform to expand their businesses, access new markets, and improve their livelihoods.
Through training programs via GrabMerchant Academy, Grab aims to equip micro-entrepreneurs with the tools and knowledge necessary to thrive in a digital economy.
According to research by the Mindanao Economic Development Council (MinDA), countries that are focused on innovation have the potential to boost worker productivity by up to 50 percent and Grab wants to increase competitiveness and support Mindanao’s economic development by encouraging innovation and digital usage.
Grab is a platform that connects passengers and drivers through the application.
“What we look at which is our job is to make sure that demand and supply balance. If supply is very low and demand is very high, because a lot of people are unserved, however, earnings of drivers go up. What we want is balance, because sometimes if supply is too much and demand is low, then the drivers’ income is not enough, so we have to balance the supply and demand,” Cruz said.
Every ride with Grab promises that no one is left behind.
“Where every Mindanaon sits in the driver seat in their destination. Together let us build a future where local MSMEs thrive, technology advances, and safe, dependable transportation is available for all. Together let’s create a future of endless possibilities, prosperity, and growth for everyone,” Cruz said.
Grab’s service is beyond a ride-hailing transport service where passengers hail for a ride and Grab drivers pick them up and send them off, but makes people’s lives more convenient in several aspects.
“Grab Philippines is deeply invested in the long-term growth and success of Mindanao. Through our strategic commitments and initiatives, Grab is uniquely positioned to help unlock the immense potential of this region, create livelihood opportunities, and uplift communities. We are committed to driving economic empowerment, fostering sustainable growth, and making a positive impact on the lives of Mindanaoans,” Cruz said.
