In a groundbreaking move, the Philippines is integrating blockchain technology into its transportation industry. Digital currency exchange Coins.ph, global ride-hailing platform inDrive, and decentralized mapping network Hivemapper have collaborated to create the first blockchain-powered fleet in the country. Launched on December 5, the initiative is designed to enable Filipino drivers to earn additional income while contributing to a decentralized mapping network.
Wei Zhou, CEO of Coins.ph, said, “We want to empower Filipinos to earn through the opportunities that crypto and Web3 provide. With this partnership, we’re transforming how physical infrastructure is built and monetized. This exemplifies the power of blockchain to generate real-world impact and create new earning opportunities for everyday Filipinos.”
The innovative project utilizes DePIN (Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks) technology, combining blockchain with traditional ride-hailing services. Vehicles participating in the project are fitted with Hivemapper’s mapping devices, allowing drivers to collect and contribute real-time mapping data as they navigate Metro Manila. This decentralized mapping offers hyper-accurate data that is vital for urban planning, traffic management, and location-based services.
Participating drivers earn $HONEY tokens for their contributions to the mapping data, offering an additional income stream alongside their regular earnings from ride-hailing. The tokens can be securely stored and managed on the Coins.ph platform. Zhou explained, “For drivers, it means getting paid for driving around Metro Manila, something they already do every day. Why not use technology to turn those activities into extra income?”
The initiative is aligned with ride-hailing platform inDrive’s mission to foster community empowerment and create sustainable income opportunities. Sofia Guinto, Head of Business for the Philippines at inDrive, said, “This partnership represents a significant step towards integrating blockchain technology into the ride-hailing ecosystem, setting a precedent for innovation and driver empowerment.”
The rewards system is based on the quality of the mapping data provided by the drivers, not the number of rides they complete, allowing them to earn at their own pace without the limitations of strict schedules. However, implementing the blockchain-powered mapping devices brought several challenges such as logistics and education. Many drivers lack familiarity with blockchain technology, potentially limiting their participation. To overcome this, the partners have prioritized driver education.
Concerns over privacy were another critical consideration. Hivemapper ensures robust data privacy by blurring identifiable details and using anonymous usernames. Ariel Seidman, CEO and Co-Founder of Hivemapper, said, “We’ve worked extensively with regulators to ensure the highest levels of privacy.”
The project is viewed as a stepping stone to broader adoption. Zhou explained, “Our mission is to empower Filipinos to earn and build wealth through crypto and Web3. This project is a stepping stone to expand this model across other industry verticals.”
The initiative sets a precedent for integrating advanced technology into everyday systems, fostering economic growth and technological innovation, while also supporting urban development. The decentralized mapping network offers immense potential for addressing real-world challenges while creating a more inclusive economy.
As the Philippines embraces blockchain-powered transportation, the world watches to see how this transformative technology can be applied across industries to create sustainable and inclusive income opportunities.
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