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Behind the Wheel and Order: Meet the Drivers Living the Stories of Grab’s Viral Short Films
Manila, Philippines — Now entering its second year, “Itatawid, Ihahatid” shines a deserving spotlight on the often-overlooked dedication of Grab’s driver and delivery partners. These everyday heroes go beyond the call of duty, not only providing exceptional service to passengers and customers but also supporting the families that depend on them. Their unwavering commitment and tireless efforts truly reflect a profound sense of responsibility and compassion, subtly weaving their stories into the fabric of the communities they serve.
This year’s campaign unveils two captivating short films, each inspired by the real-life journeys of individuals—a seasoned GrabCar driver and a tenacious female GrabFood cyclist. These stories transcend mere testimonials of perseverance; they illuminate a shared narrative among drivers and riders alike: behind every booking lies a mission, one that transforms personal journeys into vital opportunities for entire families.
Beneath the sweltering sun of a Manila afternoon, 63-year-old Ronald “Ronni” Petterson grips the steering wheel of his GrabCar with unyielding determination. A dedicated transport professional and father, he continues to provide for his family with unwavering commitment. Meanwhile, 22-year-old Mary Joy Flores expertly navigates her bicycle, skillfully weaving through the bustling traffic. A bright GrabFood delivery bag is securely strapped to her back, but the true weight she bears is far greater: the hopes and needs of five lives that rely on her every effort.
Though they hail from different generations, Ronni and Mary Joy are connected by the same thoroughfare—a path shaped by Grab’s ever-expanding ecosystem of resources for its driver and delivery partners. Through robust financial programs, comprehensive digital training, educational assistance, and essential emergency aid, the platform is not just sustaining livelihoods; it’s nurturing dreams and cultivating brighter futures for all involved.
Ronni Petterson, 63: A New Chapter Behind the Wheel
Ronni’s face may spark recognition in some. This former corporate trainer and television extra has worn many hats throughout his life — yet none resonate as deeply with him now as his role as a GrabCar driver-partner. Embracing the open road, he finds purpose in connecting with passengers, each ride offering a new story and an opportunity to make meaningful interactions.
“I get to meet people, help them get where they need to be, and still provide for my family. At my age, that’s a gift,” he says.
More than a job, Grab has offered Ronni the tools to thrive. He is a regular user of GrabAcademy, the company’s in-app learning platform where he picks up tutorials on customer service, digital literacy, and financial management. “The videos are there anytime I need them. That’s important, especially for someone like me still catching up with the digital world,” he says.
Like many partners, Ronni also turned to GrabFinance’s GrabAsenso Loans during a period of financial need. “It’s deducted gradually from my daily earnings — you hardly notice it, but before you know it, you’re done paying. That kind of flexibility matters.”
In the first quarter of 2025, Ronni was among the thousands of partners who received Ka-Grab Rewards – Grab’s incentives scheme for its top performing driver-partners – entitling him to performance incentives, vouchers, and discounts at pharmacies like Generika. “They text me when I can claim my discount. I just show up, no hassle,” he smiles.
For Ronni, the journey ahead transcends mere driving; it embodies her commitment to staying vibrant, engaged, and fulfilled as a senior citizen. Each mile represents not only the freedom of the open road but also her determination to remain an active, productive, and proud member of her community.
Mary Joy Flores, 22: Delivering Hope with Every Order
Mary Joy has donned many roles throughout her career—ranging from a hardworking construction worker navigating bustling job sites to a friendly computer shop attendant assisting customers with their tech needs. Yet, despite her diverse experiences, none of these positions offered the consistency, flexibility, or sense of empowerment that she now cherishes as a GrabFood cyclist. In this role, she finds a unique blend of independence and opportunity, allowing her to embrace her passion for the open road while delivering meals and joy to her community.
As the breadwinner for her baby and four younger brothers, every delivery is part of a larger mission: “After December, I was finally able to buy shoes, school bags, and uniforms for my siblings,” she shares.
Like Ronni, she tapped into GrabFinance’s GrabAsenso Loans during tough moments — micro-loans designed with partners like her in mind. Instead of a rigid credit check, the platform assesses her in-app performance and earnings. “I wouldn’t qualify for traditional loans. But Grab sees the work I do,” she says.
In a world where financial access frequently leaves behind those who depend on it the most, this inclusion serves as a vital lifeline. It ensures that her siblings can remain in school, their bright futures nurtured by the power of education. It guarantees that meals are consistently served on the table, fostering a sense of security and stability. Most importantly, it keeps hope alive, a flickering light that illuminates even the darkest corners of their lives, always within reach.
Programs Rooted in Malasakit and Mobility
Grab’s social impact ecosystem reaches far beyond the inspiring stories of Mary Joy and Ronni. In 2024 alone, the company distributed millions in emergency aid through its GrabCare and MOVE IT Malasakit programs, offering vital relief during medical emergencies and natural disasters, and embodying a swift response when it is needed most.
The GrabScholar Program stands as a beacon of hope, awarding over 900 educational grants and 18 full-ride scholarships to the children of driver-, delivery-, and merchant-partners. This initiative empowers the next generation, opening doors to educational opportunities that their parents once only dreamed of, and igniting aspirations for a brighter future.
Stability is woven into the very fabric of Grab’s vision for its partners. The Grab Kaagapay Program is a testament to this commitment, as it now subsidizes Pag-IBIG contributions for thousands of partners in Metro Manila and Cebu. This vital support enables access to housing and calamity loans, transforming lives and offering a safety net in times of need.
Each initiative reflects a profound commitment to invest in partners not merely as workers, but as individuals—with dreams, responsibilities, and roles as providers, students, caretakers, and integral members of the community. Through these efforts, Grab underscores its mission to uplift and empower, fostering a supportive community that thrives together.
One Ride at a Time, One Family at a Time
Grab’s viral short films from the “Itatawid, Ihahatid” campaign beautifully illustrate the quiet heroism of its dedicated driver-partners. Real-life stories like those of Ronni and Mary Joy reveal that each journey embodies much more than mere transportation. They encapsulate a parent’s unwavering love, a child’s cherished dreams, a hard-earned second chance, and a lifeline extended during times of need.
Ronni and Mary Joy exemplify the transformative power of platform work, balanced with compassion and support. Their experiences highlight how mobility transcends mere transit—it signifies movement through life’s challenges and triumphs.
Through Grab, they are not just reaching their destinations; they’re actively lifting others on their journey, fostering a sense of community and connection along the way.
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Behind the Wheel and Order: Meet the Drivers Living the Stories of Grab’s Viral Short Films
Melo Villareal
Out of Town Blog
