Grab, DICT, DOTr, and Megaworld Launch Pilot of Drone-Powered Commercial Delivery in the Philippines

Southeast Asia’s leading superapp, Grab, in collaboration with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the Department of Transportation (DOTr), and property developer Megaworld Corporation, has announced the launch of a pilot study exploring drone-powered commercial deliveries in the Philippines.This groundbreaking initiative aims to assess whether unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) can revolutionize urban logistics in one of the region’s most densely populated environments. The project seeks to demonstrate how drone technology can enable faster fulfillment of time-sensitive items by bypassing traffic congestion. The pilot will employ a hybrid delivery model: Grab delivery partners will manage pick-ups and drop-offs at designated drone landing stations, while drones will handle the intermediate legs of the journey, promising more rapid and seamless deliveries.Ronald Roda, Managing Director of Grab Philippines, emphasized the significance of this pilot beyond mere innovation. “We are continuously exploring new technologies to better serve our communities, such as drone deliveries. This pilot provides us with valuable insights into how drone logistics can work within the unique context of the Philippines, from dense urban neighborhoods to underserved areas. We’re optimistic about the potential benefits and look forward to co-creating solutions that support consumers, merchant-partners, and delivery personnel alike.”Given the Philippines’ archipelagic geography and increasing reliance on e-commerce, this pilot offers an ideal testing ground for drone-based logistics. It aligns with broader efforts to modernize transportation systems while ensuring responsible and people-centered deployment of new technologies.

The drone delivery trials will be conducted between two Megaworld properties in Metro Manila, allowing Grab and its partners to evaluate operational, technical, and regulatory considerations in a controlled environment. Initially, access to the service will be limited to select consumers and merchant partners within the chosen Megaworld townships.

Public-Private Partnership for Smarter Logistics

The DICT, DOTr, Grab, and Megaworld have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to formalize their collaborative efforts in exploring drone delivery solutions. This agreement paves the way for future pilot activities, joint assessments of use cases, and initiatives to raise public awareness about drone-enabled services.

Department of Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon highlighted the strategic importance of the project. “To address traffic congestion and improve connectivity in our rapidly urbanizing nation, we need to think beyond traditional road-based solutions. Drone logistics is a vital tool that can help us move faster, smarter, and more sustainably. This pilot embodies the innovation necessary to build a modern, efficient, and safe transport ecosystem, supported by a responsive regulatory framework.”

DICT Undersecretary for Special Concerns Christina Faye Condez-de Sagon underscored the government’s commitment to responsible innovation. “This initiative is an opportunity to guide the responsible use of drone technology, ensuring it benefits the public while supporting our nation’s digital transformation.”

Tyrone Tan, Cluster General Manager of Megaworld Lifestyle Malls, expressed enthusiasm about the project’s alignment with the company’s vision. “We are committed to developing future-ready cities. Partnering in drone delivery allows us to offer more sustainable, efficient, and innovative services to our residents, office tenants, and shoppers.”

With increasing delivery demands and traffic gridlocks across Philippine cities, this drone pilot could serve as a blueprint for integrating aerial logistics into the country’s commerce ecosystem. If successful, Grab may consider expanding the program to additional locations and developing dedicated drone corridors to alleviate pressure on road networks.