Commuters across Metro Manila and nearby cities are facing a really difficult challenge during the implementation of the general community quarantine (GCQ). That is because the limited number of transport options available is paired with measures to observe physical distancing.
To somehow address this problem, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has authorized over 18,200 transport network vehicle services (TNVS) to serve commuters from June 1 to 15, 2020 (about 4,500 taxis are allowed to operate at the same time). Thus, numerous GrabCar drivers are allowed to serve passengers (it is not clear though how many of those approved TNVS drivers are from Grab).
For its part, Grab Philippines has introduced GrabProtect, a set of safety and precautionary measures aimed at further preventing the spread of the new coronavirus. “Safety has always been at the core of what we do at Grab,” said Grab PH President Brian Cu. “While we understand that the public health situation remains to be fluid and ever-changing, we will continue to introduce innovations and policies that would protect and support the lives and livelihoods of every Filipino.”
Part of this initiative are 10 new policies that are aligned with the government’s Covid-19 regulations. Be in the know of the following before booking a GrabCar ride:
• Only cashless payments are allowed (GrabPay or credit/debit card)
• Only two passengers are allowed at most per ride. Each shall sit near the windows at the back of the car.
• Covid-19 positive individuals are not allowed. They should instead use public health vehicles for transport to a medical facility.
• Drivers and passengers must wear face masks at all times.
• Every driver must disinfect the vehicle after each trip.
• Every car must install a non-permeable acetate barrier between the driver and the passengers.
• Passengers are not allowed to book a GrabCar ride for others. They must show their booking codes to the driver prior to embarking into the assigned vehicle (except for emergency cases when a passenger’s companion makes the booking).
• The driver must open and close the door/s for the passenger/s.
• No passenger is allowed to eat and/or drink inside the car.
• Every passenger will receive a notification through GrabChat during the ride. This is to remind them about the proper safety and hygienic protocols while enjoying the service.
Also, take note that you can book and ride GrabCar daily from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. in observance of the curfew regulations in Metro Manila cities.
Moreover, Grab PH is also reminding all passengers that the following individuals shall not book or ride any Grab service during the GCQ period:
1) Passengers who are younger than 21 and those 60 years old and older
2) Those who have tested positive on Covid-19 or those who are suspected to be infected
3) Immune-deficient people
4) All persons who are mandated by law to remain in their residence
5) Pregnant women