RA 11697 — Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA)
Republic Act No. 11697, the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA), lapsed into law on 15 April 2022 without the President’s signature (Article VI §27(1) of the Constitution). It establishes the national framework for the EV industry, covering manufacturing, assembly, importation, construction, installation, maintenance, trade, utilization, R&D, regulation, and incentives related to EVCS, equipment, parts, components, batteries, and support infrastructure [PEP 2023-2050 Vol. II, p.66, 2023].
EVIDA is the primary driver of the CREVI (Comprehensive Roadmap for the Electric Vehicle Industry). See Comprehensive Roadmap for the Electric Vehicle Industry (CREVI) for scenario targets and investment data.
Chapter I — General Provisions (§1–4)
Section 2 — Declaration of Policy
| Point | Policy |
|---|---|
| (a) | Ensure energy security and independence by reducing reliance on imported fuel for transportation |
| (b) | Enable EVs including micromobility as attractive and feasible mode to reduce dependence on fossil fuels |
| (c) | Promote innovation in clean, sustainable, and efficient energy to accelerate social progress and human development |
| (d) | Protect health from pollution and greenhouse effect |
| (e) | Safeguard and improve the integrity, reliability, and stability of the electric power grid by optimizing location of energy sources relative to demand |
| (f) | Promote inclusive/sustainable industrialization; recognize private sector role; generate jobs, SME growth, FDI, competitive industries; upgrade participation in global value chains |
| (g) | Generate employment for local skilled workforce |
| (h) | Protect and safeguard cultural heritage through the Philippine transportation system — including the artistic design of traditional jeepneys |
| (i) | Recognize LGUs as competent partners; provide capacity-building support |
[RA 11697, Section 2, 2022]
Section 4 — Key Definitions
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Battery electric vehicle (BEV) | Electrically propelled vehicle with only a traction battery as power source |
| Battery swapping station | Facility for exchanging near-empty discharged battery with a fully charged battery; included in definition of “charging station” |
| Centralized vehicle-to-grid (V2G) facility | Establishment allowed to supply power to the grid using electric vehicles |
| Charging fee | Amount imposed on EV users by commercial-use charging stations; must be unbundled |
| Charging station service provider | DOE-accredited natural or juridical person selling/constructing/installing/maintaining/operating charging stations for a fee |
| Electric vehicle (EV) | Vehicle with at least one electric drive for propulsion; includes BEV, HEV, LEV, and PHEV |
| Green routes | Public transport routes designated by provinces/cities/municipalities and approved by DOTr to be exclusively traversed by electric PUVs |
| Hybrid-electric vehicle (HEV) | Vehicle with both rechargeable energy storage system and fueled power source for propulsion |
| Light electric vehicle (LEV) | EV weighing <50 kg — e-scooters, e-bikes, e-personal transport, and similar |
| Micromobility | Alternative modes of transportation provided by LEVs |
| Plug-in hybrid-electric vehicle (PHEV) | HEV with rechargeable energy storage that can be charged from an external source |
| Self-generating charging station | Charging station sourcing electricity from the grid and from on-site installed generation |
[RA 11697, Section 4, 2022]
Chapter II — Role of Government Agencies (§5–15)
Section 6 — CREVI (Four Statutory Components)
The CREVI is mandated by §6 and comprises four components, each with a designated lead agency [RA 11697, Section 6, 2022]:
| Component | Lead Agency | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| (a) EVs and charging stations | DOE (with DOTr) | May 30 each year |
| (b) Manufacturing + recycling standards | DTI (with BOI and others) | May 30 each year |
| (c) Research and development | DOST (with DTI) | May 30 each year |
| (d) Human resource development | DTI (with DOLE, TESDA, CHED) | May 30 each year |
All four components are consolidated by DOE and published on its website by September 30 each year. The CREVI is incorporated in both the Philippine Energy Plan and the National Transport Policy [RA 11697, Section 6, 2022].
Section 7 — DOE as Lead Agency for EV Adoption and EVCS
DOE is the primary agency for EV adoption and EVCS development. Key statutory functions [RA 11697, Section 7, 2022]:
- Promulgate uniform rules for EVCS use, operations, and maintenance; accredit EVCS service providers
- Convene the EVIDA-TWG within 2 months of effectivity (DOE Chair + DOTr, DTI, DOST, DENR, DPWH, DILG, NEDA)
- Develop and update CREVI annually; publish by September 30
- Accredit EVCS providers; publish annual inventory on website
- Require DUs to submit EVCS infrastructure development plans as part of their DDPs by August 30 each year
- Enforce EVCS installation requirements (§18, §19) and charging fee unbundling
- Centralize EV/EVCS data from ERC, DTI, DOTr, DENR, LTO, LTFRB, LGUs
Section 8 — ERC Additional Powers
In addition to EPIRA functions, ERC shall [RA 11697, Section 8, 2022]:
- Regulate rates charged by DUs on all charging stations — taking into account EVCS utilization, efficiency promotion, ERC rate-setting methodology (EPIRA §43), unique EVCS requirements, and effect on DU demand profile
- Promulgate rules for self-generating charging stations and centralized V2G facilities
This is a new ERC authority distinct from EPIRA — it subjects DU-EVCS commercial arrangements to ERC rate regulation.
Section 9 — DOTr as Lead Agency for EV Regulation
DOTr is the primary agency for EV demand generation and regulation/registration. Key functions [RA 11697, Section 9, 2022]:
- Promulgate rules on EV registration and franchising of electric PUVs
- LEVs for exclusive private use are exempt from DOTr registration
- Mandate green routes in LTFRB route plans
- Incorporate EVs in the PUV Modernization Program (PUVMP)
- Develop just transition program for gradual phase-in of electric PUVs; capacity-building for affected PUV operators and drivers
Section 11 — LGU Roles
LGUs shall [RA 11697, Section 11, 2022]:
- Include green routes in local transport plans consistent with the National Transport Policy
- Issue Certificate of Inspection for EVCS (under National Building Code framework)
- Provide segregated lanes for LEVs on major roads (may integrate with bicycle lanes)
- Submit annual inventory of commercial-use EVCS in their localities to DOE by January 30
- Issue building/renovation permits consistent with §17 EVCS requirements
Chapter III — Demand Generation and Industry Development (§16–23)
Section 16 — Mandatory 5% EV Fleet Share
The following entities must ensure at least 5% of their fleet (owned or leased) are EVs within the CREVI timeline [RA 11697, Section 16, 2022]:
| Category | Covered Entities |
|---|---|
| (a) Industrial/commercial | Cargo logistics, food delivery, tour agencies, hotels, power utilities, water utilities |
| (b) Public transport operators | Minibuses, buses, jeepneys, vans, tricycles, taxis, TNVS |
| (c) Government | LGUs, NGAs, GOCCs |
Statutory cross-link (§16(c)): “The electrification of government fleets shall be considered as a government energy efficiency project under RA 11285” — linking EVIDA directly to the EEC Act GEMP framework.
The CREVI shall provide a timeline for gradual increase toward 100% EV fleet.
Section 17 — Dedicated EV Parking Slots
Buildings and establishments constructed after effectivity must designate EV-dedicated parking [RA 11697, Section 17, 2022]:
- General rule: Proportional to total parking slots per CREVI guidelines
- Specific threshold: If ≥20 parking slots, at least 5% must be EV-dedicated
- Hard gate: No LGU building/renovation permit shall be issued without compliance
- Existing buildings: Must comply within CREVI timeline
Section 18 — EVCS Installation in Dedicated Parking Slots
CREVI determines when dedicated EV parking slots must be installed with EVCS. Building owner has first priority to install, operate, or maintain. Stations may be own-use or commercial-use; CREVI identifies specific public buildings requiring commercial-use EVCS [RA 11697, Section 18, 2022].
Section 19 — EVCS in Gasoline Stations
Select gasoline stations (identified in CREVI) must designate spaces for commercial-use EVCS. Station owner has first priority. No construction/operation/compliance permit without showing ample space for EVCS within premises [RA 11697, Section 19, 2022].
Section 20 — Charging Fee Rules
- Own-use stations: Cannot impose charging fees
- Commercial-use stations: May impose charging fees — must be unbundled
[RA 11697, Section 20, 2022]
Section 23 — DU Duties
DUs shall [RA 11697, Section 23, 2022]:
- Provide necessary power for EVCS consistent with DDP
- Prepare EVCS infrastructure development plan and incorporate in DDP
- If DU engages in EVCS service: comply with EPIRA §26 unbundling rules — preventing cross-subsidy between DU core operations and EVCS business
Chapter IV — Incentives (§24–26)
Section 24 — Fiscal Incentives
| Track | Incentive |
|---|---|
| (a) Manufacturing | BOI/SIPP/CREATE evaluation; EVIS — time-bound, targeted, performance-based; 8-year local production targets; no double-registration in other incentive programs |
| (b) Importation — EV CBUs | TRAIN Act incentives (100% excise exemption for BEVs; 50% for HEVs); DOF may suspend e-JP/e-trike exemption to protect local manufacturers |
| (b) Importation — EVCS CBUs | Duty-free for 8 years from effectivity |
| (b) Importation — Capital equipment | BOI/SIPP/CREATE evaluation |
| (c) Utilization | 30% MVUC discount for BEVs; 15% for HEVs — vehicle registration and inspection fee discounts also apply; valid for 8 years from effectivity |
[RA 11697, Section 24, 2022]
Section 25 — Non-Fiscal Incentives (8 years)
| Beneficiary | Incentive |
|---|---|
| EV users | Priority LTO registration; exemption from number coding/unified vehicular volume reduction; expeditious LTFRB franchise processing for all-EV PUV operators; access to TESDA EV training |
| EV manufacturers/importers | Expeditious Bureau of Customs processing for EV parts/components |
| EV manufacturers | Government allows expert foreign nationals under technology transfer agreements (subject to DOLE/PRC/DTI guidelines) |
[RA 11697, Section 25, 2022]
Section 26 — Financial Assistance
GFIs encouraged to provide concessional packages for EV/EVCS/battery manufacturing and consumer loans. BSP encourages banks to lend to EV sector. Fleet financing prioritized and streamlined [RA 11697, Section 26, 2022].
Chapter V — Final Provisions (§27–33)
| Section | Provision |
|---|---|
| §27 | DOE, DOTr, and DTI shall establish dedicated offices for EVIDA implementation |
| §28 | Penalties: PhP 50,000–500,000 + permit suspension/revocation for violations of §§6/16–23 and agency rules; without prejudice to other applicable penalties |
| §29 | JCEC oversight; DOE, DOTr, DTI, and relevant NGAs submit annual CREVI + implementation reports by December 1 each year |
| §30 | IRR within 120 days of effectivity; failure to issue on time subjects agency heads to administrative penalties |
| §33 | Effectivity 15 days after complete publication. Lapsed into law April 15, 2022 without presidential signature (Art. VI §27(1) Constitution); effective ~April 30, 2022 (lapse date + 15 days, approximate — no publication date in the text) [RA 11697, Section 33, 2022] |
Key Mandates
- Government and corporate fleet EV share: Minimum 5.0 percent EV share in both government and corporate fleets
- Building EVCS requirement: Building owners and establishments with EVCS must allot proportionate designated parking spaces for EVs
- EVCS in Distribution Development Plans: Distribution utilities (DUs) are required to include power supply for charging stations in their Distribution Development Plans (DDPs)
- CREVI mandate: Section directs the formulation of CREVI as the national EV development plan
- EVIS mandate (Section 24): Directs creation of the Electric Vehicle Incentive Strategy — a targeted incentives program analogous to the CARS program [PEP 2023-2050 Vol. II, p.73, 2023]
Governance
EVIDA-Technical Working Group (TWG): Established to harmonize policies, standards, and regulations across the EV industry. Composed of [PEP 2023-2050 Vol. II, pp.66–67, 2023]:
| Agency | Role in CREVI |
|---|---|
| Department of Energy (DOE) | EVs and EVCS (with DOTr); overall EVIDA lead |
| Department of Transportation (DOTr) | EVs and EVCS (with DOE) |
| Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) | Manufacturing; Human Resource Development |
| Department of Science and Technology (DOST) | Research and Development |
| Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) | Environmental compliance |
| Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) | Infrastructure |
| Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) | LGU coordination |
| National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) | Planning |
EVIDA Implementation Policies (12 May 2023)
Three DCs promulgated simultaneously after public consultations [PEP 2023-2050 Vol. II, pp.67–68, 2023]:
| DC | Title |
|---|---|
| DC2023-05-0010 | Guidelines on the Unbundling of EVCS Charging Fee |
| DC2023-05-0011 | Guidelines on the Accreditation of EVCS Providers and Registration of EVCS |
| DC2023-05-0012 | Guidelines on EV Recognition and Adoption of EV Standard Classification for Incentive Eligibility |
EV Industry Portal: Launched 21 June 2023 with USAID assistance (https://evindustry.ph ). National centralized repository for EV and EVCS data; enables online EVCS Provider Accreditation applications and EVCS registration [PEP 2023-2050 Vol. II, p.68, 2023].
As of late 2023:
- 170 registered public EVCS (152 AC + 15 DC charging points + 5 battery-swapping stations)
- 40 accredited EVCS providers, generating 10,307 new jobs and PhP 1.64B in investment
- 186 recognized EV models under DC2023-05-0012: 133 BEVs, 22 HEVs, 10 PHEVs, 21 LEVs
Supporting Policy Framework (Table 38)
EVIDA is complemented by existing laws and plans [PEP 2023-2050 Vol. II, Table 38, 2023]:
| Law / Policy | Relevance to EVIDA |
|---|---|
| RA 9513 (RE Act) | EVCS ≥1 MW may directly contract RE; GEOP option for RE sourcing |
| RA 11534 (CREATE Act) | SIPP covers EV manufacturing and EVCS; income tax holiday; zero tariffs on capital equipment |
| RA 10771 (Green Jobs Act) | Incentives for RE-related training; RA 11285 MEP provisions complement EV investment |
| EO 12 s.2023 | Temporary zero MFN tariff on EV CBU units (5 years, excludes HEVs) |
| TRAIN Law | 100% excise tax exemption for BEVs; 50% for HEVs |
| MMDA Memorandum | EVs exempt from all number coding schemes |
| National Transport Policy | Prioritizes modernization with BEVs/HEVs, bus rapid systems |
| Philippine Development Plan (PDP) | Targets efficient, reliable, sustainable transport system |
| Philippine National Standards (PNS) | Technical standards for EV safety, performance, operation, installation |
Electric Vehicle Incentive Strategy (EVIS)
Section 24 of EVIDA mandates EVIS — a targeted incentive program to attract manufacturing investment and position the Philippines as a regional EV value chain player. EVIS focuses on [PEP 2023-2050 Vol. II, p.73, 2023]:
- Four-wheeled commercial vehicles, principally electric jeepneys (e-JP) to accelerate PUVMP
- Two- and three-wheeled EVs as follow-on targets
EVIS is viewed to provide enhanced domestic market acceptance, manufacturing potential, and export opportunities. As of 2023, EVIS is still being formulated.
EVIDA and PUVMP
The DOE E-Trike Project and introduction of e-JPs through the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) in 2019 pre-date EVIDA but built the foundation for EV awareness. As of 2022, 9,666 cumulative EVs are registered (2014–2022) against 13.9 million total registered vehicles — a fraction of 0.07% [PEP 2023-2050 Vol. II, Table 35, 2023]. EVIDA provides the legal framework to scale this substantially. See Comprehensive Roadmap for the Electric Vehicle Industry (CREVI) for the 2040/2050 targets.
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