The Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP) has called for charging infrastructure to expand beyond major urban centres, telling Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian that provincial coverage and inter-city routes are essential for practical EV use nationwide. The group said limited charging access outside Metro Manila and other cities remains a barrier to long-distance travel and broader adoption. Discussions also covered potential updates to Republic Act No. 11697, the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act, to reflect rising EV demand and evolving motorist and industry needs.
Why it matters: The push signals that Philippine procurement and policy may soon prioritise rural and corridor charging, opening tenders beyond the saturated urban core. CPOs eyeing the market should track EVIDA amendments and provincial deployment mandates that could reshape site selection and funding flows.