Commentary
Why Pinoys Are Still Divided Over EVs
It’s 2025, and electric vehicles (EVs) are everywhere, from billboards and mall displays to facebook, TikTok and Instagram. Yet, despite growing buzz, many Filipinos still are not sold. The streets may welcome Teslas and BYDs, but in Facebook comment sections and group chat convos, many Pinoys still prefer gas-powered vehicles.
So what’s fueling this EV vs gas-powered debate?
⚡ Price Shock vs Pump Pain
Yes, EVs promise lower running costs, but the upfront cost remains a major hurdle. A brand-new EV still costs more than a comparably sized gas car, even with government incentives.
“EVs are great if you can afford them,” said one Facebook user. “But most Pinoys are still looking for a secondhand Vios or an old Adventure.”
Meanwhile, gas prices keep rising, and that’s no small deal for daily drivers. “Fuel is getting crazy. But replacing my car for an EV I can’t charge at home? Not practical.”
🔌 Charging Dillema
This is the biggest chokepoint, literally. While EV infrastructure is improving in Metro Manila, charging stations are still rare outside urban areas.
“Where do you charge in the far-flung areas? At your grandma’s house?” joked a viral Facebook comment.
For condo dwellers or those in rented homes, installing a home charger is also a no-go. And public chargers? They’re either full, out of order, or inconveniently located in luxury malls.
🔋 Hybrid Middle Ground
Many Pinoys are leaning towards hybrids as a safer step. They’re easier to maintain, cheaper than full EVs, and don’t need charging stations.
Toyota’s continued hybrid push, with models like the Prius, Corolla Cross and Yaris Cross, has gained strong public acceptance. “Best of both worlds,” says a driver who switched from diesel to hybrid. “It’s way lower gas consumption and has no range anxiety.”
🛠️ Repair Worries & Resale Doubts
One overlooked fear is the maintenance and resale. While EVs have fewer moving parts, they still need specialized care, and right now, not every car shop or casa is equipped.
“What happens if my battery fails after five years? Where do I even buy a replacement?” said another Facebook commenter.
Secondhand EVs? Still a gray area. Battery health is tricky to measure, and a lot of buyers don’t want to gamble.
🇨🇳 The China Factor
There’s also chatter around the sudden surge of Chinese EV brands. While affordable and tech-loaded, many Pinoys remain skeptical.
“It’s like a giant cellphone,” one motoring group member posted. “Looks good now, but what happens five years from now?”
This nationalism-tinged hesitation isn’t new, but it’s flaring again as Chinese EVs continue to undercut traditional brands.
🚘 Bottom Line: EV-curious but Cautious
Most Filipinos want to believe in EVs, but infrastructure, affordability, and long-term trust are still major roadblocks.
So while EV adoption is growing, the gas vs electric debate is far from over. For now, hybrids, efficient gas cars, and good old practicality continue to rule our roads.
At the end of the day, choosing between an EV or a gas-powered car all depends on what works best for your lifestyle, location, and budget. Both have their strengths, and both come with real challenges. What matters most is being informed and knowing what you’re getting into. So what’s your take? Are you sticking with gas, switching to EV, or holding out for something else entirely? Let us know in the comments. We’re ready for the spark. 🔋⛽👇🏼
The Manila International Auto Show returns from April 9 to 12, 2026, as Worldbex Services International confirms the next edition of the country’s biggest automotive event at the World Trade Center Metro Manila. Now entering its 21st year, MIAS carries the theme “Powering Mobility” as it continues to anchor conversations around innovation, performance, and the direction of the automotive industry.
Organizers said MIAS 2026 builds on the momentum of last year’s milestone event, which marked the show’s 20th anniversary and drew more than 170,900 visitors. The 2025 edition featured over 145 exhibitors across 33,000 square meters of exhibit space, with more than 310 cars, trucks, and motorcycles on display. WSI said the upcoming show aims to raise the bar further with a larger platform and expanded showcases for both industry players and enthusiasts.
At the center of MIAS 2026 is the Mobility Marathon, a series of scheduled vehicle launches where participating brands will unveil new models and technologies to the public. These launches will be supported by the Test Drive Avenue, allowing visitors to experience selected vehicles on site.
Other key attractions are set to return, including the Truck Zone, which features commercial vehicles of varying sizes, and the Die-Cast Car Collection, which highlights rare and collectible scale models. The Car Club Display will also bring together automotive groups from around the country, showcasing privately owned vehicles ranging from restored classics to modern builds.
Signature events remain part of the program. The MIAS Petron Custom and Classic Car Competition will once again recognize standout customized and classic vehicles across multiple categories. The Ms. MIAS pageant also returns, featuring representatives from participating automotive brands.
WSI said MIAS continues to position itself as a platform that connects manufacturers, suppliers, and the public while reflecting the industry’s ongoing shift toward new mobility solutions. MIAS 2026 runs from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily and is organized for the benefit of the ABS-CBN Foundation Inc.
Honda Philippines Inc. has reinforced its road safety advocacy through activities held at Don Bosco Elementary School and Don Bosco National High School in Parañaque.
The initiative was led by the Honda Safety Driving Center through its Kids on Safety and Students on Safety programs. School officials and Honda representatives attended a short ceremony at the Don Bosco Elementary School basketball court to mark the activity.
A certificate of appreciation was presented to Honda Philippines Inc. in recognition of its continued support in promoting proper road behavior among students. School leaders and Honda officials said early education plays a key role in developing safer road habits.
The Kids on Safety session focused on younger learners. Students were introduced to basic road safety concepts such as pedestrian discipline, traffic sign recognition, safe commuting habits, and the importance of wearing protective gear. The session included a road safety film, an interactive discussion, and a push bike mini skills challenge. Participants wore helmets and protective pads as they applied what they learned.
In the afternoon, the program continued with Students on Safety for senior high school learners at Don Bosco National High School Parañaque. Around 180 students joined the seminar, which covered motorcycle safety, traffic signs, pedestrian awareness, defensive driving principles, and everyday road situations.
Honda Philippines Inc. said the programs reflect its goal of promoting road safety across different age groups. By working with schools, the company aims to help students develop practical knowledge and a safety-first mindset that they can carry beyond the classroom.
Motorists heading to or passing through Manila this week should plan ahead as major road closures and traffic rerouting take effect for the 2026 Feast of the Black Nazarene.
The Manila City government, led by Mayor Francisco Isko Moreno Domagoso, has rolled out traffic measures to manage the large crowds expected for Nazareno activities, including the Traslacion on January 9.
Early closures around Luneta
According to the Manila Public Information Office, partial road closures around Quirino Grandstand began on January 6 in connection with the Pahalik rites. Katigbak Parkway and South Road are limited to one lane, with the opposite lane reserved for vehicles bound for Manila Hotel and H2O Hotel. Portions of Independence Road are also temporarily closed.
Full closures ahead of the procession
Traffic disruptions are expected to intensify on the evening of January 8, ahead of the main procession from Quirino Grandstand to Quiapo Church.
The city said full closures will be implemented progressively along key roads as the procession moves. These include Bonifacio Drive, Roxas Boulevard, Taft Avenue, Padre Burgos Avenue, Finance Road, Maria Orosa Street, Ayala Boulevard, Quezon Boulevard, Legarda Street, C. Palanca Street, Romualdez Street, Jones Bridge, and MacArthur Bridge.
Rerouting schemes in place
To ease congestion, authorities have set up detailed rerouting plans.
Southbound vehicles from Mel Lopez Boulevard or R-10 bound for Roxas Boulevard will be diverted through Capulong Street, Yuseco Street, and Lacson Avenue. Vehicles from España Boulevard heading to Quezon Boulevard will be rerouted via N. Reyes Street and C.M. Recto Avenue.
Northbound vehicles from Roxas Boulevard going toward Padre Burgos Avenue will be redirected through U.N. Avenue, P. Guanzon Street, and Mabini Bridge. Separate routes are assigned for trucks, trailers, and light vehicles, particularly near the procession route and port areas.
Traslacion route on January 9
The Traslacion will begin at dawn on Friday, January 9, at Quirino Grandstand. The procession will pass through Katigbak Drive, Padre Burgos Avenue, Finance Road, Ayala Bridge, Palanca Street, Quezon Boulevard, Arlegui Street, and several streets in the Quiapo area before ending at Quiapo Church.
With millions of devotees expected to join, authorities advised motorists to avoid Manila or postpone non essential travel on January 9.
City officials said the traffic measures aim to ensure public safety and maintain order during the religious events. Motorists are encouraged to monitor official advisories and plan alternative routes during the Nazareno festivities.
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