President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is promoting the use of solar-powered electric minibuses as a more affordable and sustainable alternative to traditional fuel-powered public utility vehicles, highlighting their potential to reduce operating expenses and increase drivers’ earnings.
In an October 16, 2026, information campaign, the administration presented a solar-powered electric vehicle (EV) system that could significantly lower the monthly energy expenses of minibus operators.
According to the figures presented, monthly energy costs could drop from Php 78,000 for conventional fuel-powered minibuses to approximately Php 9,100 for electric minibuses using solar-powered charging facilities.
This translates to potential savings of Php 68,000 to Php 69,000 per month, depending on actual operations and electricity consumption.
The proposal also featured the Landking EV320, a 25-passenger electric minibus with an indicative unit cost of Php 4.4 million.
Under the financing illustration, operators could acquire the vehicle through a seven-year payment arrangement, with a Php 440,000 down payment and monthly amortization of Php 61,700.
The presentation also highlighted the possibility of generating additional income through lower energy expenses, potentially helping operators offset monthly vehicle payments.
The initiative forms part of the administration’s push to modernize public transportation, reduce dependence on petroleum products, and encourage the adoption of cleaner energy technologies.
However, actual savings and profitability would depend on factors such as passenger demand, vehicle utilization, financing terms, maintenance expenses, and the cost of installing solar-powered charging infrastructure.
