The Apl.de.Ap Foundation International (APLFI), in partnership with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), is solidifying its commitment to boosting the electrification of the transport sector with the establishment of the first Electric Vehicle (EV) Center of Excellence to conduct a study on EV and electrification.
“Our vision for the EV Center of Excellence extends beyond merely introducing new technology; it’s about empowering people,” said Apl.de.Ap, founder of APLFI and a member of the Black Eyed Peas.
“By upskilling our existing workforce and creating new educational opportunities, we can ensure that the benefits of electrification reach every corner of the Philippines—creating jobs, improving public health, and driving sustainable economic growth,” he said.
The comprehensive study, slated for completion by the fourth quarter of this year, will evaluate the Philippines’ readiness for electrification, focusing on key areas such as the capabilities of the technical workforce, the adequacy of the current grid, and the feasibility of expanding charging infrastructure nationwide.
It will include an assessment of existing laws and regulations, identifying any gaps or the need for new legislation to support a robust and sustainable EV ecosystem.
A core objective of the center is to ensure that the country does not merely introduce new vehicles, but creates a sustainable ecosystem that includes a skilled workforce, resilient infrastructure, and informed decision-making.
The center will be at the heart of building the ecosystem, ensuring that the transition to electric vehicles is comprehensive, inclusive, and sustainable.
“This center is not just a hub for innovation; it is a catalyst for nationwide transformation,” said James Leather, ADB chief of the transport sector group.
“By equipping the Philippines with the tools and knowledge needed for electrification, we are laying the groundwork for a cleaner, more resilient transport sector,” he said.
