“The administration’s discussions with a major Japanese car company interested in building electric vehicles (EVs) in the country are a step in the right direction, given the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which has caused fuel prices to spike dramatically. 

I have long advocated for greater EV use as a way to reduce our dependence on imported fuel and protect the economy from global energy shocks. 

To accelerate this transition, we need stronger incentives for both end-users and manufacturers. Measures such as preferential or zero-interest loans for EV buyers, toll exemptions, and free driving lessons for new EV drivers would make the shift more accessible. At the same time, the government should also ensure its compliance with committed incentives to manufacturers. 

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Photo by Mark Cayabyab / OS WIN GATCHALIAN