Manila: The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has announced the opening of 500 taxi slots exclusively for electric vehicles (EVs) in the Bicol Region and Palawan. This initiative aims to support tourism and modernize public transportation in these areas.
According to Philippines News Agency, the LTFRB allocated 400 EV taxis for the Bicol Region under Memorandum Circular 2026-085. This decision followed an assessment that highlighted the need for more taxis to bolster economic and tourism activities. The memorandum also revoked an earlier decision that allowed 100 regular taxi slots, replacing them with electric taxi vehicles.
Additionally, 100 electric taxi slots have been allocated for Palawan under Memorandum 2026-089. Palawan is recognized as a major tourist destination in the country, and the introduction of these EV taxis is expected to promote clean transport, sustainable tourism, and affordable mobility for the public.
The LTFRB's initiative is part of a broader strategy that previously saw the approval of around 8,000 Transport Network Vehicle Service (TNVS) slots exclusive for electric vehicles, including Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) and Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs). Acting LTFRB Chairman Greg Pua Jr. stated that the initiative aligns with laws promoting electric vehicles in public transportation and aims to enhance the commuting experience by making it environmentally friendly and reliable.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., in his State of the Nation Address last July, expressed his vision for 50 percent of vehicles on the road to run on electric power by 2040. The LTFRB's guidelines stipulate that applications are open to Filipino citizens and domestic juridical entities organized under Philippine laws whose primary purpose is to provide transportation services. Foreign nationals and corporations may also apply, subject to Memorandum Circular No. 2024-041.
The guidelines require applicants to submit a minimum of 15 units per application, with only brand-new EV units from the current or immediately preceding model year being accepted. Applications can be filed digitally or manually once the memoranda are published in newspapers. Priority will be given to applicants with readily available EV units, while those without may submit a commitment from a manufacturer or dealer confirming availability within 90 days.
