Drone delivery to be tested in Phl

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) have joined forces with Grab Philippines and Megaworld to explore the use of drones for urban deliveries, marking a significant step toward integrating unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) into the country’s transport and logistics system.

In a statement released recently, Grab announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) among the four parties. The agreement lays the groundwork for pilot programs aimed at evaluating the feasibility of drone technology in real-world delivery scenarios and raising public awareness about its potential.

“The initiative is designed to test whether unmanned aerial vehicles can transform urban logistics in one of the region’s most densely populated environments, exploring the potential of faster fulfillment of time-sensitive items by sidestepping traffic bottlenecks,” it said.

Under the pilot setup, deliveries will follow a hybrid model: Grab riders will manage pickup and drop-off at designated drone stations, while drones will fly the middle leg of the journey—effectively bypassing road congestion.

Grab managing director Ronald Roda emphasized that the pilot is not just a showcase of cutting-edge tech but a practical learning opportunity.

“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. We’re optimistic about the insights this pilot will bring,” Roda said.

The MOU was signed during the DICT’s Digital Bayanihan Roadshow held on June 18 in Dumaguete City. At the event, DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon expressed optimism that drone technology could contribute to easing the country’s persistent traffic problems.

“Drone logistics is one of the tools that can help us move faster, smarter and more sustainably. This pilot reflects the kind of innovation we want to encourage as we build a truly modern transport ecosystem, without compromising the safety and security of our air transport,” Dizon said.