The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
Abra lone district Rep. JB Bernos has urged local government units (LGUs) to partner with state universities and colleges (SUCs) to develop and manufacture electric vehicles (EVs) for public transportation, citing the need to reduce dependence on costly imported fuel.
Bernos said tapping the technical expertise of state-run higher education institutions could help produce market-ready electric vehicles while opening opportunities for local manufacturing and green jobs.
“Shifting to EVs is a long-term solution that will decrease our dependency on oil and protect our transport sector and the riding public from volatilities that are outside our control,” he said in a statement.
The lawmaker said SUCs have the capability to develop EVs but need opportunities and support from local governments to turn their innovations into commercially viable products.
Under Republic Act 11697, or the Electric Vehicles Industry Development Act (EVIDA), LGUs are required to transition at least 5% of their official vehicle fleets to electric vehicles.
The law also requires local governments to establish dedicated EV lanes and streamline the permitting process for EV charging stations.
Bernos said collaborating with local EV designers and manufacturers could help LGUs meet these requirements while stimulating economic activity and generating employment.
He also cited the potential benefits of electric mobility, including lower fuel expenses, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and improved air quality.
Beyond electric transportation, Bernos is pushing for greater use of solar energy to help government offices reduce electricity costs.
His House Bill 3126, or the proposed On-Grid Solar Energy Systems Act, seeks to require the installation of on-grid solar energy systems in national and local government-owned buildings and offices.
The proposals form part of broader efforts to promote cleaner energy, reduce operating expenses, and strengthen the country’s capacity to develop locally made green technologies.