UberPool rolls out in Manila

Photo credit: Mark Warner

Ride hailing app Uber wants to make good on its promise to help ease traffic congestion in emerging markets like the Philippines. Uber today soft launched its UberPool service in Manila – an option that lets people ride cars carrying other passengers who are going in the same direction.

The new service costs up to 25 percent less than UberX fares and gives you “upfront pricing,” which means you know how much you have to pay before you book.

Here’s how it works: under UberX set your pickup location and destination so you can see the fare. Then you will be matched with up to three other people traveling along the same route. Picking up additional riders may add a few minutes to your trip, but it guarantees you a cheaper fare. You’ll also still pay less even if you’re not matched with others.

Uber said the offer doesn’t just provide commuters more affordable options – it also alleviates the horrendous traffic situation and protects the environment by putting more people in fewer cars.

If that’s a way to get on the good side of regulatory authorities, then it’s definitely working. The Philippines’ Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has thrown its support behind Uber’s new service and even lent its headquarters as the venue for the Manila launch. Uber rolled out the service together with the LTFRB’s 29th anniversary celebration.

Uber has made UberPool available in other markets since 2014. In May, it said 20 percent of its rides globally were already on UberPool.