By el Amigo
MANILA — The Philippines is poised to usher in a new era in its automotive industry with the upcoming arrival of its first Filipino-developed electric vehicle (EV) after Francisco Motors Philippines officially unveiled the ELEKTRON on July 27.
The launch marks a significant milestone for the country’s push toward cleaner transportation and homegrown vehicle manufacturing, demonstrating that Filipino engineering and innovation are ready to compete in the rapidly expanding electric mobility sector.
The unveiling came on the same day President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. reaffirmed the government’s commitment to accelerating EV adoption during his fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA), where he highlighted policies aimed at making electric vehicles more affordable while strengthening local manufacturing.
Marcos said the government has removed tariffs on electric vehicles until 2028 to encourage more Filipinos to switch to cleaner modes of transportation.
He added that the initiative is expected to boost investments and create opportunities for local companies involved in vehicle assembly, battery production, and the manufacture of EV components.
“It shall also spur growth of our domestic local industries across the EV value chain, specifically those involved in the vehicle assembly and manufacturing of batteries and related spare parts,” the President said.
The launch of the ELEKTRON reflects the growing capability of Filipino manufacturers to participate in the country’s transition to sustainable mobility. Francisco Motors said the project forms part of its vision of building a globally competitive, Filipino-developed electric vehicle while helping expand the country’s EV ecosystem.
Marcos also appealed to transport stakeholders to support the modernization of the country’s public transportation system, assuring them that its implementation would remain humane, practical, and fair.
“Kaya hinihiling ko ang suporta ng buong industriya upang mapaandar na natin sa lalong madaling panahon ang ating minimithing modernisasyon ng mga pampublikong sasakyan. Titiyakin natin na magiging makatao, magaan, at makatarungan ang pagpapatupad nito.”
With the unveiling of the ELEKTRON and the government’s continued policy support for electric mobility, the Philippines is taking another major step toward developing a sustainable transport industry powered by Filipino innovation and cleaner energy.
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