Grab eyes exemption from number coding

Grab Philippines on Tuesday said it will apply for an exemption from the number coding scheme, given the limited options of public transport available for commuters under the general community quarantine (GCQ).

According to Grab Philippines country manager Brian Cu, the company plans to meet with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to discuss issues regarding the number coding.

"That's something that we will do with the MMDA and to work with them to ensure that we meet the safety regulations they want to put in place but also balance it out with the ability to move people around in this difficult time," he said in an interview aired on ANC.

MMDA spokesperson Celine Pialogo said the number coding scheme will remain lifted until June 5. Guidance has yet to be provided for the succeeding days.

Cu said, however, that a number coding scheme will have an impact on the supply of the available vehicles under the Grab platform.

"It will affect the drivers and the supply side, given the lack of supply we might face. Most importantly, it will affect drivers' income," he said.

Operations of Grab resumed on Monday, June 1, and with the number coding currently lifted, its drivers could potentially go on trips every day of the week.

Should a number coding scheme be pushed, Cu drivers could lose around 20% of what they would potentially earn for the week.—AOL, GMA News