Grab resumes 24/7 operations in Metro Manila, other areas

Commuters can once again book a GrabCar at any time of the day after Grab Philippines resumed its 24/7 operations in certain parts of the country.

According to Izzy Lee’s “Stand for Truth” report on Tuesday, Grab will be available 24/7 in Metro Manila, Pampanga, Cebu, Baguio, Naga, Bacolod, Iloilo, Cagayan de Oro, and Davao.

Grab assured passengers that this will not affect fares as it is regulated by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

“Ang atin po kasing mga pricing sa GrabCar ay regulated ng LTFRB. Based po ‘yan sa distance and sa time travelled. So ito pong pagbabalik natin sa 24-hour operation, hindi po siya makakaapekto sa ating fare matrix,” Grab spokesperson Nicka Hosaka said.

Meanwhile, Grab said only cashless payments would be accepted while its carpooling feature, GrabShare, remained suspended amid the pandemic.

Public health expert Dr. Tony Leachon reminded both drivers and passengers to keep the health and safety protocols in mind when traveling by Grab.

“Tandaan natin, kailangan naka-face mask tayo, naka-face shield tayo, at ‘yung social distancing natin— no talking, no eating—’wag nating gagawin po ‘yun para ma-limit natin ‘yung transmission ng virus,” he said.

“‘Pag naman po kayo ang taxi driver, kailangan kayo po ay naka-preventive measures din. Maaari sanang magkaroon tayo ng acrylic barrier at i-allow natin pong i-open ang windows kasi alam nating mataas ang viral transmission kapag enclosed spaces,” he added.

Grab said it has long been implementing health protocols under the Grab Protect program.

GrabCar resumed operations on August 19 after quarantine restrictions were eased in Metro Manila and nearby provinces. — Julia Mari Ornedo/DVM, GMA News