Summary
- Philippines President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. supports sustainable transportation and the transition to electric vehicles
- His government has taken strategic steps to facilitate the transition to EVs, including duty-free importation for charging stations and lowered user fees for EV owners
- Marcos aims for a 50% market share of electric vehicles in the Philippines by 2040 through the Comprehensive Roadmap for the Electric Vehicle Industry
- Tesla has invested in the Philippines, marking a milestone in sustainable transportation and local innovation
- The Tesla service center in Uptown Mall completes the Tesla EV ecosystem for owners in Metro Manila, with plans for future expansion and support for all Teslas regardless of origin
Article
Philippines President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. expressed his administration’s support for sustainable transportation and the transition towards electric vehicles (EVs) at the launch of the Tesla Service Center in Uptown Mall Bonifacio Global Center. He highlighted the importance of EVs for combating climate change and outlined his government’s efforts to facilitate the adoption of EVs through policies such as the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA) and Executive Order (EO) No. 62, which reduces tariffs on electric vehicles until 2028.
During his speech, Marcos emphasized the urgency of addressing climate change in the Philippines, a country that has been significantly impacted by its effects. He also acknowledged Tesla’s decision to invest in the Philippines as a recognition of the nation’s potential for sustainable innovation. By setting ambitious targets for EV market share and attracting foreign investment in clean energy technologies, Marcos aims to transform the country’s transportation sector into a more sustainable model, aligned with global efforts to combat global warming.
In addition to Tesla, Marcos has also courted other EV manufacturers like VinFast, which set up shop in the Philippines and promised more investments in the country’s EV sector. Marcos sees investments in EV infrastructure as investments in Filipino talent, creating job opportunities and fostering innovation within the local community. He envisions a future where Tesla might manufacture vehicles in the Philippines, enhancing local capabilities and driving the transition towards sustainable transportation forward.
The opening of the Tesla Service Center allowed the company to release the first five Teslas to new owners in the Metro Manila area. Tesla’s direct-to-consumer sales model, supported by dedicated service centers, ensures a seamless ownership experience for EV owners. The service center completes the Tesla EV ecosystem in the Philippines and offers support for owners of various Tesla models, including the Model 3, Model Y, Model X, Model S, and the Cybertruck.
The service center aims to provide support for all Teslas, regardless of where they were purchased, reflecting Tesla’s commitment to customer service and accessibility. The center also plays a crucial role in maintaining and servicing Tesla vehicles, ensuring their longevity and performance on the road. President Marcos concluded his speech by calling on Tesla executives to collaborate with the government towards a shared vision of sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation in the EV industry.
Overall, the launch of the Tesla Service Center in the Philippines symbolizes a significant step towards sustainable transportation and the adoption of electric vehicles in the country. By fostering partnerships with global EV manufacturers and implementing supportive policies, the government aims to drive the EV transition forward and create a more sustainable transportation model for the future.
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