When Transport Network Vehicle Service providers started operating, they offered a new option for commuters to address the transport crisis that had existed since time immemorial. While the rates were initially more expensive, they eventually became more affordable.

Lower rates must mean good, right? Sadly, though, with most TNCs still collecting a 20% commission, earnings for driver-partners have declined.

And with the fuel crisis still lingering—exacerbated by worsening congestion—driver-partners now earn less. Undeniably, this eroded the level of service provided by these companies.

With drivers earning less, they’re left on their own to find ways to make a living, which makes them susceptible to temptations, leading to bad customer service. In the end, both commuters and driver-partners lose.

Thankfully, another TNC has arrived. While other TNCs have come and eventually become more or less like the competition, this one promises to be different.

Officially launched last Independence Day, Xpress Go is a new TNC that offers driver-partners a better way to earn. First up, the company has set a permanent 12% commission rate—lower than the usual 20% of other TNCs.

This commission rate alone can yield up to P18,000 additional earnings monthly (with 10 trips daily at P300 average fare). In response to the State of National Energy Emergency declared by the government, Xpress Go will also waive its commissions for the first 60 days of a driver-partner on the platform. This could double the estimated additional earnings of a driver-partner—a great way to reward them for their good service.

That’s not all: A driver can earn an additional P4,000 a month by carrying the Xpress Go decal on his vehicle, via the Vehicle Branding Program. There are also up to P5,000 milestone bonuses for the first 60 days.

Finally, the refer-a-driver program gives P1,000 each for the referring driver and the qualified new driver as soon as the latter completes 100 trips within 30 days. With all the listed benefits tailored for the driver, what gains do commuters get from these?

First, a happy worker—in this case, the driver—will most likely be inspired to work. And that should translate to better customer service.

This greatly benefits not just the driver-partners but the commuters as well. This would also challenge other players to improve their services and treat their driver-partners better.

Finally, Xpress Go prioritizes approving applications of driver-partners operating hybrid or electric vehicles. Xpress Go also has partnerships with BYD and Cebuana Lhuillier, and is exploring partnerships with other new-energy vehicle makers (GAC and Hongqi), making it easy for partners to transition to a cleaner fleet.

For those who want to join Xpress Go, drivers or operators can either sign up on this website, through the Xpress Driver App, or via the Ka-Xpress Partners’ Facebook page.

There will also be activation booths across the National Capital Region. Just bring the requirements—including copies of the professional driver’s license, an NBI clearance, the OR/CR of the vehicle, an LTFRB Provisional Authority or an active TNVS franchise, and proof of insurance. Onboarding turnaround will be within 48 hours.

Xpress was incorporated in March 2022, but its Xpress Super App was officially launched in July 2024. It is the first Filipino-owned EV mobility company in the country.

It has businesses in Metro Manila, Bataan, Boracay, Dumaguete, Laguna, and Pampanga, operating mobility services with its electric or hybrid fleet. Should you want to try Xpress Go’s services, the mobile app is available for download via Google Play and Apple App Store.