Industry group calls for legislation to give incentives to electric and hybrid vehicles

MANILA, Philippines - The Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP) has thrown full support to the Electric & Hybrid Vehicles Incentive Act of 2011, which seeks to provide incentives for the manufacture, assembly, and importation of alternative-fuel vehicles.

EVAP Executive Director Yvonne Palomar Castro said the government is now ready to take a closer look at the viability of electric vehicles.

"There is no stopping to the rise in world oil prices and clearly EVAP's vision of a nation wherein the use of electric vehicles is highly promoted, encouraged and supported by its government and the society in order to develop a transportation landscape that is one with the environment ecologically and economically is the call of the time," Castro said.

In line with EVAP's position and stand, the organization further states that:

- Granting of tax incentives for both imported and local EVs is pursuant of its vision of a zero emission transport system.

- Additional incentives to local manufacturing which includes priority in granting of franchise for locally manufactured EVs to be used for mass public transport system like e-jeepneys and e-buses and exemption to color coding and free parking should also be given grant.

- Supporting infrastructures like charging stations should also be granted incentives and should be part of a more comprehensive national program for electric, hybrid and other alternative fueled vehicles.

The organization, he said, was thrilled on how this Bill could change the threat that is present in a society where fuel-powered vehicles is common and used extensively not only in Metro Manila but in other key cities and areas of the country.

Castro also called on other interested individuals, organizations and corporations to join the EVAP advocacy for "Greener Lifestyle."