Philippines — Filipino commuters are increasingly relying on ride-hailing to get around Metro Manila, with three in four surveyed residents using such apps amid concerns about time, weather and transport accessibility
According to data from mobility provider inDrive, 74 percent of National Capital Region (NCR) residents had used an app-based ride booking service in the past three months.
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This was not a one-off occurrence, as Metro Manila commuters booked an average of three rides a week, according to inDrive.
For inDrive itself, in-city ride requests in the Philippines surged by 155 percent in the first half of 2026 from a year earlier.
“With more Filipinos relying on apps like inDrive for their daily commutes, mobility providers need to keep pace with what passengers need and value,” inDrive Philippines country manager Sofia Guinto said in a statement.
While their reasons vary, NCR commuters typically turn to ride-hailing apps for time efficiency and due to weather conditions, inDrive said.
About 56 percent of respondents booked transportation using apps whenever they were in a hurry, while 49 percent turned to such services when weather conditions affected their travel plans.
Another 32 percent cited comfort as a reason for booking, while 30 percent used ride-hailing to reach areas with limited public transportation options. Meanwhile, 29 percent relied on the services when traveling late at night or in unfamiliar areas.
In terms of popular destinations, inDrive said demand was particularly evident for trips from residential areas to major urban destinations, such as malls, airports and bus terminals.
While demand for ride-hailing is high, Metro Manila commuters are also discerning about which platform they use, inDrive said.
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About 78 percent of respondents said they compared fares across several apps before booking. Price, however, was not the primary consideration, as 87 percent said they opted for platforms that made them feel safest while commuting.
Another 73 percent prioritized ride quality over cost, considering factors such as vehicle availability, booking flexibility, driver friendliness and overall comfort.
Looking ahead, Guinto said the company would continue enlisting drivers to capture the growing demand for ride-hailing services.
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“By providing consistently available, convenient and safe rides, we hope to reach more Filipino passengers and prove that a ride booked on inDrive is a trip that is worth their time and budget,” she said. INQ
