Grab launches free swab test for riders, drivers

MANILA, Philippines — Around 60,000 Grab drivers and riders will undergo free reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction or RT-PCR swab testing for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

An initial batch of drivers had their swabs taken during the pilot run of the project at the Quezon Memorial Circle yesterday.

The swab samples will be processed at the Red Cross laboratory, which has a turnaround time of around three to four days.

Grab Philippines said the initiative would run for two months in other cities.

The project is in partnership with the National Task Force for COVID-19 and Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA).

Grab Philippines president Brian Cu said they would prioritize some 40,000 active drivers and riders, followed by the remaining 20,000 who are still waiting for permits to operate.

To encourage drivers to get tested, Cu said the company would provide those who would test positive for the virus with P10,000 in assistance while they are on quarantine.

BCDA chief and testing czar Vince Dizon said the initiative is part of the government’s expanded targeted testing protocol, which aims to test frontline workers.

Under the new guidelines, Dizon said frontline workers in special concern areas are qualified to undergo free COVID-19 testing.

The workers include those in public transportation sector such as jeepney, bus and tricycle drivers.

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte thanked Grab for piloting the project in the city. A second activity would be conducted at the Amoranto Sports Complex tomorrow.