A Legacy That Shapes the Future of Mobility: The Electric Vehicles Association of the Philippines
In a rapidly evolving world where sustainability is becoming a pressing concern, the Electric Vehicles Association of the Philippines (EVAP) stands at the forefront of a transformative movement in the country’s transportation landscape. Under the leadership of its president, Edmund Araga, EVAP is not just advocating for electric vehicles (EVs) but is also actively shaping the future of mobility in the Philippines. This article delves into Araga’s vision, the challenges faced by the EV sector, and the initiatives that are paving the way for a greener future.
The Visionary Leadership of Edmund Araga
Edmund Araga’s journey in the automotive industry began in 1992, and since then, he has been a staunch advocate for electric vehicles as the transport of the future. His tenure as president of EVAP since 2018 has been marked by a commitment to raising public awareness about the benefits of EVs. In an exclusive interview with Daily Tribune during their online show, Straight Talk, Araga emphasized the importance of visibility for electric vehicles in urban areas, a challenge that the association is keen to address.
Araga’s passion for electric mobility was ignited early on. He recalls that in 2010, EVAP’s board of directors embarked on a journey to learn from other countries about the trends in electric vehicles. This proactive approach laid the groundwork for EVAP’s initiatives, including their first project focused on modernizing the iconic Philippine jeepney.
Modernizing Public Transport: The Electric Jeepney Initiative
The jeepney, a beloved symbol of Filipino culture, has long been criticized for its inefficiency and environmental impact. Recognizing this, Araga and his team at EVAP have been working tirelessly to modernize this mode of transport. The Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA), which EVAP helped shape, aims to replace outdated public transport with more efficient and eco-friendly vehicles. However, despite the government’s Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP), the number of electric vehicles on the streets remains relatively low.
Araga believes that electric jeepneys hold significant potential for transforming public transport in the Philippines. By promoting the adoption of EVs, the association aims to create a more sustainable and efficient transportation system that benefits both commuters and the environment.
Collaborative Efforts and Regional Leadership
Araga’s commitment to electric mobility extends beyond the Philippines. As president of the ASEAN Federation of Electric Vehicle Associations (AFEVA) since October 2020, he has been instrumental in fostering collaboration among Southeast Asian nations. Countries such as Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, Laos, and Indonesia are part of this regional initiative, which aims to promote the adoption of electric vehicles across the region.
EVAP’s collaboration with various government agencies has also been crucial in advancing the electric vehicle agenda in the Philippines. The association’s relentless efforts have contributed to the establishment of policies and frameworks that support the growth of the EV sector.
Engaging the Youth: A Future-Oriented Approach
Understanding that the future of electric mobility lies in the hands of the youth, Araga is keen on involving students in the evolution of public transport. He envisions introducing an academic course focused on electric vehicle development, which would equip the next generation with the knowledge and skills needed to drive innovation in the industry.
In line with this vision, EVAP is organizing a three-day summit on electric vehicle development in October, co-sponsored by major automotive companies such as BYD, Hyundai, and Nissan. One of the highlights of the summit will be a design contest inviting senior high school and college students to submit their electric tricycle designs. This initiative aims to inspire students to engage with the technology and contribute their insights to the industry.
The 12th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit
Scheduled to take place from October 24 to 26 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, the 12th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit is set to be a landmark event in the EV industry. Themed “Spark the Change, Drive Electric,” the summit will serve as a platform for industry leaders, government agencies, and students to discuss the latest developments in the electric vehicle sector.
Araga’s determination to include the Filipino youth in the conversation about sustainable mobility is evident. He believes that by addressing the concerns and aspirations of future leaders, the EV industry can continue to thrive and evolve.
Conclusion: A Sustainable Future Awaits
As the Electric Vehicles Association of the Philippines continues to champion the cause of electric mobility, the legacy that Edmund Araga and his team are building is one that promises to shape the future of transportation in the country. Through advocacy, collaboration, and education, EVAP is not only promoting electric vehicles but is also fostering a culture of sustainability that will benefit generations to come. The journey towards a greener future may be fraught with challenges, but with visionary leaders like Araga at the helm, the Philippines is well on its way to becoming a leader in electric mobility.