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DOE Welcomes Launch of “Iwas-Taas Pamasahe” E-Transport Program, Cites critical Role in Reducing Fuel Dependence
Date published: Apr 10 2026 09:35 PM
MEDIA RELEASE
10 April 2026
DOE Welcomes Launch of “Iwas-Taas Pamasahe” E-Transport Program, Cites critical Role in Reducing Fuel Dependence
The Department of Energy (DOE) welcomes the launch of the “Iwas-Taas Pamasahe E Transport Solution Program,” a private sector-led electric bus initiative that advances more affordable public transport while strengthening the country’s transition toward energy secure and cost-resilient mobility.
The program, which deploys locally assembled electric buses to transport groups nationwide, comes at a critical time as developments in the Middle East continue to affect global oil markets and place sustained pressure on domestic fuel prices.
Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin emphasized that expanding electric transport is a necessary and practical response to these external pressures, particularly for a country that remains dependent on imported fuel.
“This initiative shows that we can protect commuters from rising fuel costs while advancing a cleaner and more sustainable transport system. Through strong public-private collaboration, we are making affordable and reliable mobility a reality for every Filipino,” said Secretary Sharon S. Garin.
The DOE underscored that the program aligns with the government’s long-term policy direction of the government under the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA) and the Comprehensive Roadmap for the Electric Vehicle Industry (CREVI), which collectively aim to accelerate EV adoption, expand charging infrastructure, and build a sustainable electric mobility ecosystem.
The Philippines is already seeing strong momentum in this transition. Electric vehicle adoption reached 60,906 registered units in 2025, reflecting a 2.5-fold increase from the previous year. As of 31 March 2026, the country has 472 recognized EV models, 258 accredited EV charging station providers, and 1,569 charging points nationwide, supporting broader access to electric mobility.
At the same time, the DOE highlighted that electric transport offers a more predictable cost structure compared to conventional fuels, with national average charging rates at ₱24.03 per kWh for AC charging, ₱30.15 per kWh for DC fast charging, and ₱53.46 per kWh for battery swapping, providing a viable alternative to fluctuating fuel prices.
To sustain this transition, the Department 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 is also advancing initiatives that directly benefit commuters. Through its participation in the Libreng Sakay Program, electric buses have already served more than 3,000 passengers in just six days, demonstrating the operational readiness and public value of e-transport solutions.
In parallel, fiscal and non-fiscal incentives 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—helping make electric mobility more accessible to both operators and consumers.
The Department emphasized that the shift to electric transport is being supported by a stable and forward-looking power sector, with EV charging demand already integrated into national energy planning to ensure system reliability and long-term sustainability. ###