At a recent event hosted by Legado Motors in Pasig City, Luis “Chavit” Singson unveiled the e-J01, a modern electric jeepney, as part of his ambitious program to electrify the country’s jeepneys.

The jeepney is a vital part of Filipino life for decades. But as pollution and fuel costs rise, a shift toward cleaner and more efficient options becomes urgent. Manong Chavit is stepping up to lead this change.

“Sabi ko sa mga transport group, maliban sa Metro Manila, magkaroon ang bawat probinsya ng e-jeep. Kawawa ang mga driver at pasahero, kung magkakasakit dahil sa polusyon, mauubos lang ang pera sa pagpapagamot (I told transport groups that aside from Metro Manila, every province should have e-jeeps. Drivers and commuters are suffering; if they get sick from pollution, all their money will just go to hospital bills.),” Manong Chavit said.

Manong Chavit welcomes the Korea Automotive Technology Institute (KATECH) to the Philippines. He highlighted the potential of this initiative. “Your presence here signifies the strengthening of our ties with Korea and our shared vision for a sustainable and innovative future. We are excited to see this project come to life and the positive impact it will bring to our people,” he said.

He stated that his commitment doesn’t end with promises. “Yung mga partner natin sa Korea na inimbita ko para tumulong, umiiyak sila nung dumating dahil yung binigay kong presyo ay napakamura dahil sa pagtulong namin sa ating mga kababayan. Ito ay tulong ko lang talaga sa ating mga kababayan. Nasabi ko na, may isang salita ako, pag sinabi ko, gagawin ko (Our partners from Korea who I invited to help were moved to tears because the price we offered was incredibly affordable to support our fellow Filipinos. This is my personal way of helping my countrymen. I’ve said this before, I stand by my word — if I say something, I’ll do it.),” he said, proving that his words come with action to back them up.

Congresswoman Richelle Singson also expressed her support for the initiative. “This collaboration will enable us to maximize the impact and reach of this initiative, benefiting even more Filipinos,” she said.

The e-J01 electric jeepney is built to handle the everyday grind of Filipino commuters on busy city streets or rough provincial roads. It has a range of 100 kilometers distance per full charge. Its engine is quiet and it has an advanced battery system that provides a smoother ride — more importantly, less pollution.

For public utility vehicle drivers, the e-jeepney is a game-changer. The cost of operating and maintaining it is cut down significantly while staying healthy. For commuters, it offers a safer, cleaner and more comfortable journey.

This program is a collaboration between the Luis Chavit Singson (LCS) Group, Electric Mobility ON (EMON), and Korea’s Automotive Technology Institute (KATECH). Together, they’re ensuring that the e-jeepney meets global standards while addressing local needs.

“Chairman Singson’s jeepney electrification project is a highly meaningful initiative that prepares for the future of the wonderful people of the Philippines, and we fully support it,” Chongkwan Rah, KATECH director, said.

“More than a milestone, the e-jeepney project is a step toward a cleaner and more sustainable future for the Philippines,” Joo Youngjin, CEO of EMON, said.

This program will help transport workers and Filipino communities move toward a cleaner and more sustainable future.

“Itong programang ito, tulong ito, pagtulong ito sa tao,” Manong Chavit said.

The program will also make sure that even those in the provinces will benefit and that such progress will be inclusive.

The e-J01 model is just the beginning. Plans are already in motion to introduce micro-electric vehicles, personal mobility options for short-distance travel and shared transport solutions for underserved areas.

The e-jeepney program aims to create jobs, improve public health, and help uplift lives. When these electric jeepneys hit the streets, they will bring hope, progress and opportunities for a better future.