The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has launched a new lending program that allows operators of public utility vehicles (PUVs) to borrow up to P5 million from the Small Business Corp. (SBCorp) to acquire electric vehicles (EVs).
E-Transport Loan Program Launch
Trade and Industry Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque announced the E-Transport Loan program during its launch at the DTI main office in Makati City on Tuesday, April 21, 2026. She stated that P2 billion has been allocated for the lending facility, which is designed to assist transport operators in transitioning to EVs.
Roque emphasized that the program supports the government's goal of shifting to electric vehicles and reducing dependence on fossil fuels, especially critical given the global oil supply issues stemming from the Middle East conflict.
“So, it’s good to transition to electric vehicles now. Under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., we are taking a whole government approach now to respond to the ongoing energy crisis. Meaning, all of us Cabinet secretaries are making sure that we get things done right away,” she said.
“This is our hope. Because that is the order of our President -- to make sure we have programs that are relevant and programs that will actually uplift our countrymen. And for today, it is the transport sector.”
Loan Terms and Conditions
Under the lending program, qualified public transport operators may borrow up to P1.5 million per vehicle, with a maximum cap of P3 million. The loan is payable within five years and includes a grace period of up to one year.
Roque noted that the P2 billion allocation, once depleted, may be replenished through the allocation for micro, small, and medium enterprises. She encouraged public transport operators to avail themselves of the program, adding that charging infrastructure is being expanded to ensure adequate facilities for EVs.
Support from Transport Groups
During the event, Roberto “Ka Obet” Martin, national president of transport group Pasang Masda, expressed gratitude for the loan facility. He highlighted that the global oil supply issues make it timely for the transport sector to shift to EVs.
“Itong pagsi-switch natin sa e-vehicle ay maganda ito at tutulong ang ating DTI sa hanay ng transportasyon para maibsan ang problema namin. Malaki ang indikasyon na ang ating pamahalaan ay hindi tumitigil, humahanap ng paraan para makatulong sa transport sektor ng ating bansa (DTI is helping the transport sector switch towards the use of e-vehicles. This is an indication that the government is continuously looking for ways to help the country’s transport sector),” he said.
