EVAP forum calls for faster permits

Local government officials called for faster and more uniform approval procedures for electric vehicle charging stations at the ASEAN EV Conference 2026, co-organized by the Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP), in Makati on 12 November.

Representatives from Pasig, Mandaluyong and Bacolod raised concerns over land access, permit requirements and coordination with national agencies. They said these issues continue to affect local electric transport projects.

The Department of Energy (DoE) acknowledged the concerns and said it is working with the Department of the Interior and Local Government, the Department of Public Works and Highways and the Anti-Red Tape Authority on a joint memorandum circular to streamline the approval process.

Mandaluyong City has already included EV provisions in its comprehensive land use plan for 2017 to 2032 and its city development plan.

According to Abraham Raposon Jr., chief of the city’s Green Building Division, local green building regulations require new developments to provide charging facilities.

Mandaluyong has also purchased 30 electric tricycles for barangay use. Additional units donated by the DoE serve schoolchildren and senior citizens.

Pasig City, meanwhile, has based its electrification program on its approved local public transport plan rather than setting an arbitrary target for EV purchases.

Jhon Rhandy Cabanes, officer-in-charge of the Pasig City Transportation Development and Management Office, said the plan helps determine how many conventional public transport vehicles need to be replaced with electric units.

The city has purchased five electric buses as part of its efforts to encourage residents to use public transportation.

Cabanes said some passengers have replaced at least one private vehicle trip with a bus journey, which the city considers an encouraging result.

However, the availability of suitable land and the approval process for charging stations remain concerns.

Pasig has introduced a one-stop shop to reduce processing time, although Cabanes said better coordination with national agencies could eliminate duplicate requirements.

The city is also preparing incentives for private companies interested in installing charging stations. Future city hall and township developments are expected to include provisions for EV charging.

In Bacolod, local officials have taken a route-based approach before committing to a larger electric public transport fleet.

City Planning and Development Office representative Mariam Ruth Arcolas said Bacolod has identified two proposed green routes and conducted trials with three to four electric jeepneys over four to five days.

The city has also sought assistance from nongovernment organizations and national agencies to include electric mobility in its local development plans.

Arcolas stressed the need to consult commuters and transport operators before introducing changes to existing routes.

The discussions took place during a policy and governance session led by Clean Air Asia through the e-mobility ASAP Project.