BACOLOD City – Amid concerns over rising fuel prices and increasing transportation costs, Bacolod City will host a five-day electric vehicle (EV) summit from October 26 to 30, 2026, to explore cleaner and more sustainable public transportation alternatives.
Bacolod City Lone District Representative Alfredo Abelardo Benitez said his office will initiate the summit, bringing together EV manufacturers and suppliers, public transportation operators, government agencies, and financial institutions to discuss electric vehicle technologies, financing options, government assistance, and regulatory requirements.
The initiative comes as rising fuel prices and energy challenges continue to increase operating expenses for public transportation operators, adding pressure on both drivers and commuters.
Benitez said the summit aims to provide transport operators with practical information on shifting from conventional fuel-powered vehicles to electric alternatives, which could help reduce dependence on fossil fuels and minimize the impact of fuel price fluctuations.
The event will showcase various EV technologies, including electric tricycles and electric jeepneys, allowing transport operators to examine available units and assess their suitability for public transportation.
Participants will also have the opportunity to directly engage with manufacturers, suppliers, government agencies, and financial institutions to discuss vehicle specifications, financing arrangements, available government assistance, and regulatory requirements.
Among the agencies expected to participate are the Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Transportation (DOTr), and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).
Benitez said bringing these stakeholders together would help address concerns about adopting electric vehicles and enable transport operators to make informed decisions before investing in new transportation technologies.
Bacolod eyed for green transport pilot program
Meanwhile, Bacolod City is being considered as one of three pilot areas for the DOTr’s proposed green route and electric transportation program.
Under the proposed initiative, approximately 50 electric vehicles could be deployed along at least three designated green routes in the city, with full implementation targeted for 2027, Benitez said.
The proposed program seeks to introduce electric public transportation as an alternative to conventional fuel-powered vehicles while supporting efforts to reduce emissions and develop a more sustainable transportation system.
The implementation plan and proposed operational scheme are expected to be presented to Bacolod Mayor Greg Gasataya in October.
Benitez said the upcoming summit would serve as a platform for stakeholders to examine the economic, environmental, and operational considerations of electric transportation and identify measures to support its wider adoption in Bacolod.
The initiative is also expected to help transport operators explore potential long-term savings on fuel and operating expenses while contributing to the city’s transition toward cleaner public transportation./PN
