Philippines to Roll Out EV Manufacturing Incentives Within Three Months
The Philippine government is actively developing a comprehensive incentives program aimed at electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers to stimulate domestic production. According to Trade and Industry Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque, an executive order is anticipated to be issued within the next three months, marking a significant step in supporting the EV sector through the Electric Vehicle Incentive Strategy.
Government Commitment to EV Sector Growth
In a statement to journalists on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, Secretary Roque emphasized the urgency of the initiative, stating, "We hope to release it soon... I hope in less than three months." She highlighted that a meeting with EV manufacturers is scheduled for next week, after which the incentives program will be finalized. Roque added, "We're still trying to fix everything. But we're hoping to release it soon, especially with the situation now," underscoring the government's proactive approach to attracting investors for EV manufacturing in the Philippines.
Building on Past Automotive Initiatives
This new incentives program follows the successful Comprehensive Automotive Resurgence Strategy (CARS) program, which previously supported domestic vehicle manufacturing and strengthened the local automotive supply chain. For the current year, a budget of P4.32 billion has been allocated to the CARS program. Major automotive players, including Toyota Motor Philippines Corp. and Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp., participated in this initiative with their Vios and Mirage models, each producing 200,000 units within six years to qualify for incentives.
The move to incentivize EV manufacturing aligns with broader efforts to enhance the country's automotive industry and promote sustainable transportation solutions. By offering targeted incentives, the government aims to position the Philippines as a competitive hub for EV production in the region, potentially creating jobs and boosting economic growth. This strategic focus on electric vehicles reflects a growing global trend towards cleaner energy and reduced carbon emissions, with the Philippines seeking to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the green technology sector.
