CitizenWatch Philippines convenor and former congressman, Atty. Jose Christopher “Kit” Belmonte said such move is part of the shift to clean energy and will also help Filipinos bear with the rising prices of fuel.
The updated Philippine Energy Plan 2020-2040 states that two-wheeled electric vehicles will significantly make up the projected number of EVs on the road by 2040. Sales of two-wheeled electric vehicles continue to increase, especially as more Filipinos try to find ways to cope with the inadequate transportation system in the country and high fuel prices.
Belmonte said that the Philippine government, through its Executive Order no. 12 of 2023, temporarily lowers the tariff rate of four-wheeled EVs to 0% for the next five years. Two-wheeled vehicles, however, have been excluded in this initiative. Further, Belmonte pointed out that Administrative Order 2023-039 regarding motorcycles that is currently being reviewed should include e-motorcycles with speeds of up to 50 kilometers per hour to be allowed in bicycle lanes.