Senatorial aspirant Luis “Manong Chavit” Singson has announced his directive to ramp up the production of electric jeepneys (e-jeepneys) to 500 units per month, alongside electric bikes and tricycles. This initiative follows the successful launch of e-jeepneys by the LCSC Group last month and aims to transform the nation’s public transportation system. It aligns with the government’s Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) and supports the shift toward cleaner, more sustainable mobility solutions.
“We plan to produce an initial 500 e-jeepneys, about 2,000 e-bikes, and 1,000 e-tricycles monthly, with plans to increase production in the coming months,” Singson shared via text on Thursday. He disclosed that each e-jeepney would cost P1.2 million, while the pricing for e-bikes and e-tricycles is still being finalized.
A key part of Singson’s senatorial platform includes offering soft loans for drivers and operators to ease the financial burden associated with the PUVMP. He emphasized that e-jeepneys could be acquired without a down payment and with zero interest, making the transition to electric vehicles more accessible.
“To date, we’ve secured 3,000 initial orders for the PUVMP, which will also be available for private buyers,” Singson stated.
In addition, Singson announced plans to establish an e-jeepney manufacturing plant in Lipa City, Batangas, using advanced Korean technology for production. He highlighted the need for charging stations at transport terminals to ensure smooth operations for e-jeepney services.
The initiative has garnered support from various transport groups, who appreciate Singson’s efforts to aid drivers and operators facing high transition costs under the PUVMP. The official launch of the e-jeepneys took place on December 28 in Pasig City, featuring Singson and his daughter, Ilokano Ako Partylist Rep. Richelle Louise Singson, along with key South Korean e-mobility figures.
Manong Chavit reiterated his commitment to modernizing the country’s transportation system with electric vehicles, stating, “This marks the beginning of a sustainable and innovative future for the Philippines. By adopting electric jeepneys, we aim to create a positive environmental impact and enhance the daily lives of Filipinos.”
Rep. Singson echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of international collaboration in addressing urban mobility challenges. “This initiative demonstrates how cooperation can solve mobility issues. Your work sets a benchmark for innovation and sustainability,” she remarked.
Jong Gwan Rah, a director at the Korea Automotive Technology Institute, provided insights into micro-electric vehicles and their role in advancing equitable transportation. “Our goal is to promote fairness and innovation, ensuring these advancements benefit all sectors of society,” Rah noted.
The event showcased the sleek and modern design of the electric jeepneys, highlighting their eco-friendly features. These vehicles represent a significant step toward addressing urban mobility challenges while reducing carbon emissions as part of a broader initiative to implement sustainable public transportation nationwide.
