Article by:
Anna Leah Gonzales
MANILA – A new private sector-led electric bus program is being positioned as both an economic buffer and a climate solution, as the government moves to reduce the country’s exposure to volatile global oil prices.
The Department of Energy (DOE) on Friday threw its support behind the Iwas-Taas Pamasahe E-Transport Solution Program, an initiative deploying locally assembled electric buses nationwide to keep public transport fares stable amid rising fuel costs linked to the Middle East conflict.
In a statement, the DOE said the program aligns with the government’s long-term policy under the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act and the Comprehensive Roadmap for the Electric Vehicle Industry, which collectively aim to accelerate EV adoption, expand charging infrastructure, and build a sustainable electric mobility ecosystem.
"This initiative shows that we can protect commuters from rising fuel costs while advancing a cleaner and more sustainable transport system," DOE Secretary Sharon Garin said.
"Through strong public-private collaboration, we are making affordable and reliable mobility a reality for every Filipino."
The DOE said the electric vehicle (EV) adoption in the country reached 60,906 registered units in 2025, reflecting a 2.5-fold increase from the previous year.
As of end March, the country has a total of 472 recognized EV models, 258 accredited EV charging station providers, and 1,569 charging points nationwide.
To sustain this transition, the DOE said it continues to implement targeted policies and programs to accelerate EV adoption.
These include the forthcoming policy on mandatory EV charging station installation in key establishments; the integration of EV charging demand into power and distribution planning; and the issuance of technical standards to ensure safe, reliable, and interoperable charging systems.
The DOE said it is also advancing initiatives that directly benefit commuters.
Fiscal and non-fiscal incentives also remain in place to encourage adoption, including zero import tariffs on EVs until 2028, excise tax incentives, and exemption from number coding in Metro Manila. (PNA)
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