MANILA, Philippines — The number of registered electric vehicles in the country is expected to reach 35,000 units by yearend as more models, charging stations and policies to support the industry are rolled out, according to the Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines.
EVAP president Edmund Araga told reporters during the pre-event press conference for the upcoming 13th Philippine EV Summit that the group expects the total number of registered EVs to increase this year.
Patrick Aquino, director at the Department of Energy (DOE) Energy Utilization Management Bureau, said that the number of registered EVs has reached 29,715 units from January to July, surpassing last year’s total.
The number of registered EVs went up by five percent to 24,286 units in 2024.
Araga said these figures show that the number of registered EVs could grow further.
“There is increased interest from consumers to buy EVs,” Araga said, noting that many automotive players are now able to earn consumer trust in their products.
Araga said consumer interest is not limited to hybrid EVs, but is also seen to be rising for battery EVs.
Aquino said the progress could be attributed to the greater availability of EVs, with more than 1,029 EV models currently in the government’s recognition list.
Aquino also said the expanding network of charging stations is also driving the adoption of EVs.
At present, there are more than 1,104 charging points in operation in more than 113 locations nationwide.
“These developments underscore rising public interest for EVs and EV charging stations, a trend that we expect to accelerate further with the forthcoming issuance of our enabling policies,” Aquino said.
He noted that a department circular facilitating faster times for interconnection and processing for the deployment of charging stations is set to take effect on Sept. 6.
The DOE also expects to issue the amended guidelines for EV recognition later this month, which will take effect in September.
Aquino said the DOE would also be holding public consultations in the coming months on the EV Industry Development Act’s provisions requiring establishments to install charging stations.
“This includes gas stations, those with parking slots, malls, expressways (and) tollways,” he said.
He said the DOE is working on making it easier for these establishments to install charging stations.
“It is difficult to put up charging stations. We have a lot of challenges,” Aquino said, noting that there are different permits needed.
The DOE remains committed to ensure the just and inclusive transition to electric mobility.
“We continue to stand alongside the industry in developing a robust and vibrant EV ecosystem through sound policies, infrastructure readiness and support to innovation,” Aquino said.