The Philippines has taken a bold step in integrating blockchain technology into its transportation sector. Digital currency exchange Coins.ph, global ride-hailing platform inDrive and decentralized mapping network Hivemapper have joined forces to unveil the country’s first blockchain-powered fleet.
Officially launched on December 5, the initiative aims to provide Filipino drivers with additional income opportunities while contributing to a decentralized card network.
“We want to empower Filipinos to make money through the opportunities that crypto and Web3 provide,” said Wei Zhou, CEO of Coins.ph. “With this partnership, we are transforming the way physical infrastructure is built and monetized. This illustrates the power of blockchain to drive real-world impact and create new earning opportunities for everyday Filipinos.”
Merging blockchain and ride-hailing
The project uses DePIN technology (Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks), combining blockchain with traditional ride services. Participating vehicles are equipped with Hivemapper’s mapping equipment, allowing drivers to collect and contribute real-time map data as they navigate Metro Manila.
This decentralized mapping approach delivers hyper-accurate data crucial for urban planning, traffic management and location-based services.
“People love the idea of helping to build a decentralized world map, where the people building the map also participate in the economy of the map,” says Ariel Seidman, CEO and co-founder of Hivemapper, explaining the broader appeal.
Earn tokens for contributions
Filipino drivers participating in the initiative will earn $HONEY tokens for their ticket contributions, creating an additional revenue stream on top of their regular ride-hailing income. These tokens can be securely stored and managed on the Coins.ph platform.
“For drivers, this means getting paid for driving in Metro Manila, something they already do every day. Why not use technology to turn those activities into additional revenue?” Zhou emphasized this in an email interview with CoinGeek.
Drivers have several options to manage their rewards.
“$HONEY tokens can be securely stored in the Coins.ph wallet,” Zhou explained. “Through Coins, they can easily convert, hold or transfer $HONING to PHP if necessary. Our platform provides a seamless experience, making it effortless to go from receiving rewards to converting tokens into fiat.”
Empowering directors with blockchain
InDrive said with CoinGeek that the partnership aligns with the ride-hailing platform’s mission to advance community empowerment and sustainable income opportunities.
“This partnership represents an important step toward integrating blockchain technology into the ride-hailing ecosystem and sets a precedent for innovation and driver empowerment,” said Sofia Guinto, Head of Business for the Philippines at inDrive.
“By providing drivers with an additional revenue stream through blockchain-powered mapping, we are not only redefining driver engagement, but also demonstrating how technology can address economic challenges. Globally, this initiative could inspire other markets to adopt similar models, positioning ride-hailing as a pioneer in creating inclusive and sustainable income opportunities while promoting technology adoption in the industry,” said Guinto, adding transformative potential of this model is highlighted.
Additionally, the reward system focuses on the quality of the map data drivers provide, rather than the number of trips they complete. This allows drivers to earn at their own pace, without the constraints of tight schedules.
Overcoming implementation challenges
Implementing blockchain-powered mapping devices presented several challenges, especially in logistics and education. Many drivers are unfamiliar with blockchain technology, which could limit participation. To address this, the partnership has prioritized driver training.
“We focus on drivers with basic knowledge for the pilot phase,” Guinto explains. “Additionally, we are working with Coins.ph to develop accessible and practical cryptocurrency education resources so that all executives can confidently participate in the program as it scales.”
Privacy issues were another critical consideration. Hivemapper told CoinGeek that they ensure robust data privacy by including features such as blurring identifiable details and using anonymous usernames.
“We have worked extensively with regulators to ensure the highest level of privacy,” Seidman said.
He also highlighted the unique advantage of Hivemapper’s real-time intelligence.
“Google Maps and Waze don’t see the physical work in real time, meaning they rely on people to report issues such as roadworks or accidents. Hivemapper, on the other hand, has intelligent cameras that can see and understand what is happening.”
Seidman emphasized the long-term vision: “Billions of consumers and millions of businesses rely on maps every day. As we transition these customers to Hivemapper, it will drive demand and therefore value in the token.”
A vision for the future
The blockchain-powered fleet signals blockchain’s potential to transform industries beyond finance.
“Achieving coverage density is critical,” Seidman said. “In Manila, we want every problem – construction, traffic accidents, police activities – to use these lessons to scale up similar initiatives in other metropolitan areas around the world.”
Coins.ph sees the project as a springboard to wider adoption, with Zhou explaining that “our mission is to empower Filipinos to earn and build wealth through crypto and Web3,” adding, “This project is a springboard to expand this model to other countries. other vertical sectors.”
Transforming transportation
By combining blockchain technology with existing taxi services, the initiative not only encourages Filipino drivers but also supports urban development. The decentralized card network offers enormous potential for addressing real-world challenges and creating a more inclusive economy.
“This collaboration is a testament to the potential of innovation to drive progress and create lasting impact,” concludes Guinto.
As the Philippines embraces blockchain-powered transportation, this initiative sets a precedent for integrating advanced technology into everyday systems, driving economic growth and technological innovation.
Look: The Philippines is leading the way in the adoption of blockchain technology
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