Ocampo, who chairs the committee on environment of the 21st City Council said the rise of EVs is more than just a trend . In the Philippines, the EV market continues to grow at an exciting pace.
“In the first quarter of 2023 alone, we witnessed a six-fold increase in EV sales in our country. Experts now predict that EV ownership will reach 6.6 million by 2030, marking a critical shift in how Filipinos think about transport and fuel in the country. These numbers are not just statistics, they represent progress, environmental responsibility, and economic potential,” Ocampo said during the regular session of the city council last Tuesday, July 22, 2025.
“It is already a trend in some countries that people are shifting to greener transportation like electric vehicles. Nakita nato nga dako gyud epekto ang kalimpyo sa atong kinaiyahan especially now nga gawas nagkamahal ang presyo sa petrolyo nga kitang tanan nagbaguod, there is a solution not only the rising prices of fuel but also a solution in preserving and protecting our environment,” he said in an interview.
Ocampo outlined some major advantages of EVs.
It produces cleaner air and reduces emissions.
“It is common knowledge that air pollution is a serious problem in the Philippines. We all know how traffic congestion contributes to the rising levels of air pollution in the city. EVs present a viable and immediate solution. With zero tailpipe emissions, electric vehicles help mitigate climate change, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and support a greener economy,” Ocampo said.
Ocampo said EVs has lower operating costs, and with fuel prices rising unpredictably, EVs offer financial relief to Filipino drivers.
“Unlike gasoline-powered vehicles, EVs can be charged at home. More importantly, maintenance is significantly lower. No oil changes, no spark plugs, EVs don’t rely on traditional combustion systems. This is not just cleaner for the environment; it’s lighter on the Filipino wallet,” he said.
He said the government gives incentives and exemptions for the use of EVs.
“Through the passage of Republic Act No. 11697, known as ‘Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act’ (EVIDA Law), we have laid a solid foundation for the electric mobility sector. The law grants numerous fiscal and non-fiscal incentives providing tax incentives for electric vehicles,” he said.
He said the use of EVs is not just a technological shift, it is also a social and environmental imperative.
“Lesser emission, zero to less emission tapos maintenance mababa, cost efficient. Mao na ato ning ginaduso, ginatan-aw nato nga basig ang syudad sa Davao headed by mayor Baste Duterte gusto niya ipatan-aw kung unsay advantages niini kung mag-shift ta into EVs,” Ocampo said.
Ocampo clarified that there will be no phasing out of Public Utility vehicles, including tricycle, and pedicabs.
“The road to the future is electric, and we have the power, as policymakers, to make that road smoother, fairer, and greener for every Dabawenyos in our city. Let us encourage individuals, companies, and government agencies to make the switch. Together, we can help make Davao City that is not only mobile, but sustainable, equitable, and prepared for the future,” he said.
Ocampo further said “the road to the future is electric, and we have the power , as policymakers, to make that road smoother, fairer, and greener for every Dabawenyo in our city.”
Ocampo’s committee will be inviting various sectors, especially the manufacturers for a committee hearing.
"Pagtuon pa lang. There is no phase out here wala tay undangon nga existing transportation. Ang ato lang mangita tag paagi nga slowly eill transition from fossil fuels to cleaner energy which is EV," Ocampo said.
"There is no move here nga kambyuhan. It is still the prerogative of individuals to shift into EVs," he said.
Davao City First District Councilor Temujin Ocampo