Are Cebu’s ride hailing apps getting too expensive for you? If so, try out inDrive!
inDrive Philippines officially launched its operations in Cebu and had a press conference at the Hotel Elizabeth on December 4th, 2024. Through this, they revealed a more affordable transport network vehicle service (TNVS) for commuters in Cebu.
Their online transportation app offers passengers the freedom to choose the rides that best meet their needs, while drivers are given the flexibility to align with passenger preferences.
The app also supports drivers by providing several benefits and giving them more opportunities to earn money.
Users simply add their pickup points and destinations, then input their proposed fare. Drivers can either accept or provide a counter offer. This allows a freedom of choice benefitting both passengers and drivers.
WHY INDRIVE PHILIPPINES CHOSE CEBU
Sofia Guinto, the Development Head for inDrive Philippines, mentioned that Cebu was one of their priority markets as it’s one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations.
They also noticed a lot of BPO companies, especially in busy locations like IT Park and Cebu Business Park.
As a result, there is usually a high demand for safe and reliable public transportation around the clock. Ride hailing apps are therefore essential to getting around the city.
The company has worked hand-in-hand with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to ensure they meet Cebu’s laws and ordinances.
The app is currently available for free on the Google Play Store and Apple iStore. However, you will need an active cell phone number or email address to register.
The app is currently in its soft launch stage, with only 500 accredited drivers passing through the busier parts of Metro Cebu, such as Cebu City, Mandaue, Lapu-Lapu, Consolacion, Liloan, Talisay, and Minglanilla.
They only cater to four-wheeled vehicles, while taxis are still in their beta stage. The app currently allows cash and manual GCash transfers as payment methods.
As inDrive slowly adds more features, they expect to have 5,000 partner drivers by the first quarter of 2025.
One of their main goals is to launch the inDrive Cebu Drivers Center, where drivers voice their concerns or offer recommendations to improve the app.
In partnership with Laban TNVS, inDrive drivers will also be able to attend seminars and workshops ensuring they are well-trained.
Personnel will assess possibly reaching further locations, as well as allowing digital payments in the near future.
Other benefits for inDrive drivers include a 0% interest commission during their first two to six months of operation. This allows them to earn more as they go home with all of their profit.
After six months, drivers will be required to pay a 10% service charge, which is the lowest of all the ride hailing apps in the Philippines.
Aside from this, drivers can earn exclusive merchandise and free gasoline.
Both new and existing users can earn up to Php 200 cashback through their promo, which is currently running until December 31st, 2024.
MORE ABOUT INDRIVE PHILIPPINES
While the main office is located in the US, inDrive started as an online initiative on New Year’s Eve 2012 in the town of Yakutsk in Russia.
Local taxi companies dramatically increased their prices during the winter, leaving many locals stranded. The price hike brought several locals together to offer rides where they can negotiate prices.
This soon became an actual company, turning into the second most downloaded transportation app next to Uber, serving over 700 cities in 46 countries.
Aside from ride-hailing, inDrive also provides courier and freight deliveries, as well as specialty services such as home repair and renovation.
Prior to Cebu, inDrive Philippines launched operations in Metro Manila, Bacolod, Baguio, Iloilo, Butuan, and Cagayan de Oro.
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This new player in public transport works against injustice, giving both drivers and passengers a fair opportunity for a convenient ride. Their innovative business model is a welcome addition to Cebu’s transportation options.
As inDrive Philippines continues to improve the app, commuters will soon have more convenient and reliable options in terms of Cebu’s transportation system.