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. 🔋⛽👇🏼
Hariphil Asia Resources Inc. will deploy roadside assistance stations across key Luzon routes for the Holy Week rush, offering support to Chevrolet owners during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
The company confirmed the rollout of its Chevrolet Road Care Program on April 2, 4, and 5, 2026. Service hours run from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. A total of 11 dealerships will take part, with teams positioned along major highways and travel corridors.
The program covers minor repairs, basic adjustments, maintenance checks, and emergency roadside assistance. Chevrolet said the setup allows motorists to address issues early and avoid delays during long drives.
Stations are divided across North Luzon, Metro Manila, and South Luzon. Locations include Ilocos Norte, Isabela, Dagupan, Baguio, Pampanga, Commonwealth, Makati, Alabang, Cainta, Las Piñas, and Camarines Sur. Each site operates on specific dates within the program window.
The assistance is free for Chevrolet owners. The company said the goal is to keep vehicles in safe running condition during peak travel days when highways see heavier traffic.
HARI President and CEO Maria Fe Perez-Agudo said the initiative focuses on customer safety during long-distance trips. She added that the company will provide timely service and support along key routes.
Chevrolet advised owners to stop by any Road Care station before or during their trip to check their vehicles and address any concerns before they worsen.
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.
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