(Photo courtesy of PNA)
The Philippines’ electric vehicle (EV) industry is gaining momentum as Vietnamese automaker VinFast introduces a new online purchasing platform while the government moves to expand charging infrastructure and encourage wider EV adoption.
VinFast Philippines deputy chief executive officer for online-to-offline (O2O) operations Roxildes Lacerna said Monday that the company’s newly launched platform allows prospective buyers to explore vehicle models, reserve units, and complete purchases online without visiting a dealership.
The platform is supported by a facility in Pasig City capable of accommodating around 15 vehicles, giving customers the option to inspect units physically before making a purchase.
Lacerna said customers paying in cash or through approved financing arrangements with partner banks and GCash may receive their vehicles within 48 hours, provided their preferred units are available at the delivery center.
He clarified that the online platform would complement rather than compete with VinFast’s existing dealership network, as customers have different purchasing preferences.
The automaker currently operates around 40 dealerships nationwide and plans to expand to 60 by the end of 2026, particularly in underserved markets.
Meanwhile, Department of Energy (DOE) Director Patrick Aquino reported that approximately 87,500 EVs had been sold nationwide as of September 2026.
Aquino said EVs accounted for one in every four vehicles sold this year, highlighting the growing acceptance of electric mobility among Filipino consumers.
“This is not a small market anymore. This is also not the future. This is already our EV transition,” Aquino said.
The DOE also reported 1,941 EV charging stations nationwide and assured the public that efforts to expand the network would continue.
Aquino said the department aims to finalize two major measures by November 2026, including regulations identifying public and private establishments required to install EV charging facilities.
The second initiative involves a joint memorandum circular with the Department of the Interior and Local Government, Anti-Red Tape Authority, and Department of Public Works and Highways to streamline permits and accelerate charging station development.
The DOE is also preparing the implementing rules and regulations of the Electric Vehicle Incentive Strategy (EVIS), which seeks to promote EV adoption while attracting investments in domestic manufacturing of vehicle components, parts, and related technologies.
Aquino said the initiative is expected to support job creation and strengthen the Philippines’ position in the growing electric vehicle industry.
