Bacolod lawmaker champions electric vehicles for sustainable public transit

Deputy House Speaker Alfredo Abelardo Benitez, who represents Bacolod City in Congress, has publicly endorsed a transition toward electric vehicles as a key strategy for enhancing the city's transportation sustainability.

Benitez outlined several benefits of the shift during a video message at a 2026 Bacolod event, emphasizing that widespread EV adoption would help decrease the nation's reliance on petroleum imports while simultaneously addressing environmental concerns.

The lawmaker argued that electric public transport would deliver tangible advantages to local residents through improved air quality, a particular concern for cities grappling with vehicle emissions. For transport operators and service providers, he highlighted significant long-term savings through reduced operating and maintenance expenses compared to conventional fuel-powered vehicles.

The endorsement reflects broader efforts in the Philippines to transition toward cleaner transportation alternatives as cities seek to balance economic development with environmental protection and public health objectives.