Senator Win Gatchalian called on the government to fast-track the transition of public utility vehicles (PUVs) to electric vehicles (EVs) through the PUV modernization program.
While not an immediate solution to global supply disruptions, Gatchalian emphasized that accelerating the shift to EVs would help reduce long-term exposure to global oil shocks and improve energy security.
The veteran legislator said that to achieve a faster transition to EVs in the public transportation sector, the government needs to provide increased financial support for PUV drivers and operators.
“Malaking kabawasan sa pangangailangan ng krudo kung ang public transportation sector ay gagamit na ng EVs,” said the vice-chair of the Senate Committee on Energy.
PUV drivers and operators of EVs are essentially insulated from oil price volatilities, ensuring more stable income, the seasoned lawmaker explained.
“With the growing network of charging stations, they face lower operating costs and can avoid long lines at gas stations.”
“With the growing network of charging stations, they face lower operating costs and can avoid long lines at gas stations,” the senator said.
Further, PUV operators and drivers who choose EVs would enjoy an excise tax exemption, significantly lowering purchase costs compared with internal combustion vehicles, he said.
“EVs’ lower exposure to fuel price swings could help limit fare hikes.”
Gatchalian added that EVs’ lower exposure to fuel price swings could help limit fare hikes.
Other EV incentives include priority vehicle registration and renewal with the LTO and access to public charging infrastructure.
These are the benefits provided under the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA) authored by Gatchalian.
