A community-based sustainable transport project is expected to improve the operations and livelihoods of 117 electric tricycle drivers in Barangay Lawang Bato, Valenzuela City, following the installation of coin-operated charging stations at a local tricycle terminal.

The initiative was implemented through the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s Sustainable Livelihood Program in partnership with the Manuel V. Pangilinan-led One Meralco Foundation. The project includes new coin-operated e-trike chargers supplied by Movem Electric Inc., Meralco’s sustainable mobility arm, for use by members of the Mulawinan Centro E-Trike Operators and Drivers Association.

The charging facility aims to address persistent challenges faced by e-trike drivers, including income losses caused by frequent battery swaps, high charging costs, and long charging times when using alternative power sources.

In recent years, MULCETRODA members shifted to battery-powered tricycles to improve passenger comfort and reduce emissions. However, operational costs and downtime due to charging requirements continued to affect drivers’ daily earnings.

To address this, five dual-outlet, 4.4-kilowatt coin-operated charging units were installed at the tricycle terminal along Mulawinan Street. The facility provides 10 charging outlets operating for up to 15 hours daily, allowing drivers to recharge batteries on-site instead of returning home mid-shift.

First District of Valenzuela Rep. Kenneth Gatchalian said the project offers a practical solution to the sector’s concerns.

“This project is a huge help for our MULCETRODA, as this gave them the opportunity to have a modern charging station,” he said.

Beyond reducing costs, the charging station is designed to function as a shared microenterprise. After electricity expenses are covered, projected net revenues from the facility will be distributed equally among participating drivers.

"On top of addressing the grassroots needs of e-trike drivers, this project is proof that partnerships forged between proactive institutions and the national government can turn ambitious visions into tangible community solutions for the MULCETRODA drivers," said One Meralco Foundation President Jeffrey O. Tarayao.

DSWD Assistant Secretary Ulysses Aguilar said the project could serve as a model for future initiatives.

"This project is the first of its kind and hopefully, we can also replicate this in other areas. We hope to see this thrive as a model for other charging stations as we look towards a sustainable electric transport system,” he said.