Grab, Megaworld test rider-and-drone package delivery
Grab Philippines and Megaworld Corp. are doing a pilot study on a package delivery service that uses drones in tandem with riders. This hybrid model is aimed at serving densely populated communities as well as underserved areas.
On Tuesday, the two companies said in a joint statement the test run will cover two properties in Metro Manila that Megaworld owns.
The hybrid model involves Grab riders who will handle pickups and drop-offs from the dedicated drone landing stations. Meanwhile, the drones will move the packages between two yet unnamed Megaworld townships.
The study will allow Grab to evaluate the operational, technical and regulatory considerations of drone deployment. Selected consumers and merchants will participate in this pilot test.
“This pilot is an opportunity for us to learn and understand how drone deliveries might work in the Philippine context, from dense urban neighborhoods to underserved areas,” said Ronald Roda, managing director of Grab Philippines.
“We’re optimistic about the insights this pilot will bring, and we look forward to co-creating solutions that benefit everyone in the ecosystem—from consumers, merchant-partners and our delivery-partners,” he added.
Tyrone Tan, cluster general manager of Megaworld Lifestyle Malls, said the pilot supports the company’s vision for smarter communities.
“Partnering on drone delivery allows us to offer more sustainable, efficient, and forward-thinking services to our residents, office workers, and mall partners,” Tan said.
For this initiative, Grab and Megaworld are also working with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Department of Information and Communications Technology. This collaboration was formalized with the signing of a memorandum of understanding.
Grab is looking at rolling out this delivery service in more locations moving forward, if proven viable.
Earlier this month, Grab introduced the country’s first fully electric taxi fleet in Metro Manila.
The GrabTaxi Electric service—currently in beta testing—is available to select users in the cities of Makati, Taguig, Pasig, Mandaluyong, Parañaque and Pasay.
The ride-hailing company also intends to expand adoption of electric vehicles (EV) in its fleet in the provinces—including Davao and Cagayan de Oro—this year.
