Grab Philippines said it has co-developed a performance-based commission scheme with its driver-partners after months of consultation and forum.
"Grab remains fully committed to protecting partner income amidst challenging economic conditions," the ride-hailing firm said in a statement issued Wednesday, Nov. 15.
"We continue to engage our community of partners on a shared mission of supporting their families through the livelihood opportunities offered by the Grab platform."
Grab issued the statement after national president of Laban TNVS Jun De Leon opposed the Grab's alleged 2-percent commission rate increase scheduled to be implemented on Dec. 1, 2022.
Laban TNVS threatened to hold a nationwide protest of Grab drivers versus the oil price hike and Grab’s 2 percent commission rate.
the organization called on the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to regulate Grab’s commission hike in the midst of oil price hikes.
The oil price hike and Grab's commission rate of Grab rendered the LTFRB’s recently approved P5 for the flag down rate for ride-hailing apps worthless, they argued.
For its part, Grab has engaged partners to co-develop the commission scheme "over several months" but only announced the scheme to the driver community "upon reaching a full consensus from its driver community leaders, and after multiple rounds of consultations and forums".
The commission scheme, part of its overall Ka-Grab Rewards program, has been "well received by Grab partners as it introduces new mechanisms that allow those who drive the most on the platform to maximize their earning potential".
The mechanism includes a new fare rebate program, enabling drivers who are more frequently on the road, to receive larger cash payouts.
Grab maintains it creates a sustainable marketplace while offering competitive commission rates for its drivers.
"Partners willingly join and stay with Grab for work flexibility, livelihood, and the various support programs that Grab has developed and dedicated for them," the company underscored.
"Grab will continue to offer the best technology and service to its driver and delivery partners," according to the statement.
"This commitment has never wavered, in good or bad times," according to Grab, reiterating it "will always been open to dialogue."