Global ride-hailing platform inDrive, in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), successfully distributed P5,000 in cash relief assistance to thousands of transport network vehicle service (TNVS) partner-drivers during a special payout activity on May 16 at the SMX Convention Center Manila in Pasay City.
The initiative was mounted in response to a DSWD directive for TNVS companies to establish dedicated payout centers, ensuring faster and more organized disbursement amid ongoing fuel price hikes.
Demonstrating strong operational leadership, inDrive designed and executed an end-to-end payout system to handle the high volume of beneficiaries. The company utilized a multi-channel notification system via SMS and in-app messaging to reach verified drivers, while implementing a structured, color-coded batch system to minimize wait times. On-site, inDrive deployed a full-scale operational team alongside government representatives to manage verification and queueing, while a dedicated medical team ensured the well-being of attendees.
Ahead of the event, inDrive conducted extensive groundwork by assisting drivers in updating and validating their records to ensure compliance with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), which significantly reduced discrepancies on the day of the payout.
“The past few months have not been easy for the ride-hailing industry, most especially for our partner drivers. As an advocate for a fairer TNVS industry, we know it is our responsibility to help our partner drivers maintain their earnings amid rising fuel costs,” inDrive Philippines country manager Sofia Guinto said.
“Through our partnership with the DSWD and the LTFRB, the cash relief assistance payout enabled us to support a significant number of our partner drivers. We hope to continue working with the government in advocating for fairer earning opportunities for our partner drivers in the long run,” Guinto added.
DSWD Undersecretary for Operations Pinky Romualdez emphasized the importance of public-private collaboration in delivering timely support to transport workers.
“This initiative demonstrates how government agencies and TNVS companies can work together to deliver immediate and meaningful assistance to our transport workers. We thank inDrive for organizing this large-scale payout for its partner drivers,” Romualdez said.
Beyond immediate cash relief, inDrive continues to champion structural support for its fleet. The platform maintains one of the industry’s lowest commission rates at an effective 8.92 percent, dropping to as low as 1 percent in select high-demand areas
Additionally, inDrive absorbs 100 percent of government-mandated discounts for senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and students so drivers do not bear the financial burden. Partner-drivers also benefit from SeaOil fuel discounts, rewards programs, and targeted incentives designed to mitigate daily operational costs.
