More Pinoys embrace EVs as fuel prices soar

As domestic fuel prices continue to surge, more Filipinos are turning to electric vehicles (EVs), not just to cut costs but also as a conscious step toward sustainable energy use.

- By BRIX LELIS

A Department of Energy (DOE) official expects the country to more than double the sale of EVs to 50,000 by the end of the year, driven by rising consumer acceptance and a growing tendency to adopt alternatives amid fuel price volatility.

“We're very positive because of the numbers that we've seen. As of the end of September, we had more than 41,000 registered EVs,” said Patrick Aquino, director at the DOE’s Energy Utilization Management Bureau.

This represents a remarkable jump from just over 24,000 EV registrations recorded in 2024, according to the latest data from the Land Transportation Office.

“We still expect it to continue increasing. Our fellow Filipinos see the value for money in terms of fuel efficiency,” Aquino said.

“We're already seeing proof of that, which is why we can see that more Filipinos are making the shift. This means you're less affected by fuel price volatility,” he added.

This week, major oil companies are set to hike gasoline prices by P1.20 per liter as escalating geopolitical tensions, particularly the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, continue to rattle global markets.

Since January, gasoline, diesel, and kerosene prices have risen by P21.10, P21.75, and P6.75 per liter, respectively, adding even more strain to the already stretched budgets of motorists.

By using EVs, Aquino highlighted that motorists could spend only about one-third or one-fourth of what they would on conventional fuel, making the switch an increasingly attractive option.

Currently, EVs make up roughly four percent of the country’s total vehicle fleet. But the government is aiming for a major leap, targeting around 312,000 units in EV sales by 2028.

With continued industry efforts and supportive government policies, Aquino has expressed confidence that more EVs will hit the roads next year, along with expanded charging infrastructure.