Business · Philippines Bureau
DOE Pushes for EV Safety Rules on Ships After Ferry Fire
The Department of Energy is seeking new maritime guidelines for electric vehicles following a fire aboard M/V June Aster near Palawan. The incident has prompted calls for stricter protocols on EV transport by sea.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — The Department of Energy has requested the Maritime Industry Authority to develop safety regulations governing the transport of electric vehicles and hybrid cars aboard Philippine vessels, following a fire that erupted on the passenger ferry M/V June Aster while traveling near Palawan.
The September 9 incident aboard the M/V June Aster, which was carrying at least one electric vehicle, has intensified concerns about EV safety during maritime transport. The fire highlighted gaps in current shipping protocols and raised questions about whether existing safety measures adequately address the unique risks posed by lithium-ion battery systems in ocean environments.
The DOE's request comes as the Philippines continues to expand its electric vehicle infrastructure and consumer adoption of EVs accelerates. The agency is working with the Maritime Industry Authority to establish comprehensive guidelines that would cover loading procedures, storage requirements, battery monitoring, and emergency response protocols specific to electric and hybrid vehicles aboard ships.
The tragedy has sparked broader discussions within the maritime and energy sectors about balancing the country's push toward sustainable transportation with operational safety at sea. Authorities have indicated that new regulations should address both passenger ferries and cargo vessels transporting vehicles.