Drivers of the ride-hailing app InDrive in the Philippines now have the opportunity to boost their monthly earnings by up to ₱18,000 through a groundbreaking map data collection initiative. This new feature, introduced in collaboration with cryptocurrency exchange Coins.ph and global mapping network Hivemapper, highlights the potential of blockchain technology to transform traditional industries.
The program involves equipping drivers’ vehicles with Hivemapper dashcams that capture real-time map data during their trips. As a reward, drivers receive Honey tokens, which can be traded or encashed through the Coins.ph platform.
“InDrive is pioneering a way for drivers to earn more from the work they’re already doing,” said Wei Zhou, CEO of Coins.ph, during a recent press briefing. “By layering token rewards on top of ride-hailing services, we’re creating an innovative income stream that benefits both the drivers and the community.”
According to Sofia Guinto, InDrive’s business development head, the pilot phase began in January 2025 with an initial group of 20 drivers testing the system. “When converted to cash, the collected tokens can amount to as much as ₱18,000 per month,” Guinto explained. If the trial proves successful, InDrive plans to roll out the initiative nationwide, tapping into its network of 13,000 driver partners as of the end of 2024.
Mark Tolley, InDrive’s director for the Asia-Pacific region, emphasized the broader implications of this venture. “By empowering our drivers with new income streams through decentralized mapping, we’re not just enhancing their earning potential but also contributing to a smarter, more connected world,” he noted.
Cryptocurrency’s Growing Role in the Philippines
The initiative also highlights the rising adoption of blockchain-based technologies and cryptocurrency in the Philippines. A recent global survey by data analytics group YouGov revealed that 52% of Filipino respondents reported owning digital assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum, positioning the country as second globally in terms of crypto adoption, trailing only South Africa at 65%.
The Philippines’ growing interest in cryptocurrency is not new. During the pandemic, blockchain-based play-to-earn games like Axie Infinity fueled widespread adoption, with Filipinos making up 40% of the game’s player base at its peak.
The latest survey figures show a steady rise in digital asset ownership in the Philippines, increasing from 45% in 2023 to 52% in 2024. This trend reflects the growing recognition of blockchain technology’s potential to create innovative opportunities, such as InDrive’s decentralized mapping initiative.
As InDrive continues to explore new ways to integrate blockchain solutions, its partnership with Coins.ph and Hivemapper marks a significant step toward redefining the gig economy, offering drivers additional revenue streams while contributing to a more efficient global mapping system.
