Marcos backs domestic electric vehicle manufacturing to cut fuel imports

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. committed Tuesday to backing the development of locally manufactured electric vehicles, including e-tricycles and e-jeepneys, as part of efforts to decrease the country's dependence on imported oil. The president made the announcement during a visit to MD Juan Enterprises Inc. in Caloocan City, underscoring the administration's focus on sustainable transport solutions.

The initiative aligns with broader government objectives to reduce transportation costs and environmental impact through electrification of the country's iconic public transport modes. Electric tricycles and jeepneys represent a significant portion of daily commuting options across the Philippines, making domestic production feasible and economically attractive.

By promoting local manufacturing of electric vehicles, the government aims to lower fuel consumption while creating economic opportunities in the automotive sector. The move reflects increasing global trends toward electric mobility and positions the Philippines to develop expertise in EV production and technology adaptation for regional markets.