Electric vehicles (EVs), along with hybrids, are making their mark as the Philippines faces an oil crisis. The Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) exhibits electric and hybrid vehicles as it opens today at the World Trade Center, Pasay City.
Driving a car in the Philippines is expensive, but 25 car brands are taking a dive to dominate the streets. Most of these EV brands have already been driven in Metro Manila traffic. MIAS will hopefully win the hearts of Filipino society to go electric despite the crisis. This includes the Philippine government looking towards a people-centric design where active mobility and walking are encouraged. Despite the challenges, the EV industry will continue to grow in the local market.
On April 09, the opening day of MIAS focuses on the “Power of Mobility” with the Worldbex Services International (WSI) spearheading this exhibit. Joseph L. Ang, the Founding Chairman of WSI, gave an energetic speech. He states, “MIAS will highlight new energy vehicles, sustainable transport solutions, EV infrastructure, and commercial mobility innovations”. Among the audience are distinguished guests in the automotive industry. The guests are Mr. Dexter Lloyd Cuajotor, Vice President for BPI Retail Lending and Bancassurance; Hon. Augustus “Joe” D. Ferreria, President of the Automobile Association Philippines (AAP); Pasay Councilor Luigi Calixto-Rubiano, representing the Pasay City Mayor; Hon. Markus V. Lacanilao, Chief of the Land Transportation Office (LTO); and Usec. Ceferino “Perry” S. Rodolfo, representing the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
Each of the 25 brands displays more than 500 cars. On the display, new models of EVs will be revealed. Some of these vehicles have smart capabilities or integrated AI. In the 21st event of MIAS, the Chinese car brands conquer the arena. They are the leading EV brands that are dominating the local industry. In the meantime, the Japanese brand Mitsubishi is shifting its gears to hybrid electric vehicles (HEV). While its fellow gasoline car competitors are hesitant Mitsubishi made a bold move. The Japanese brand builds a factory that will roll out its first HEVs in the Philippines.
MIAS will highlight the new energy vehicles with a strong focus on EVs and HEVs. It introduces these new technologies as a sustainable solution during the oil crisis. Other countries are moving towards a people-centric road system while the Philippines is stuck. One of these countries is Japan, which is following the Netherlands in this initiative. Streets in Japan are narrow roads with a single car lane to expand the sidewalks. Cities in other countries like Paris, Barcelona, and Quezon City (Philippines) are prioritizing people over cars.
The future of EVs and HEVs now lies in the success of MIAS as it tries to win the local automotive industry. The new lineup of SUVs and long travel EVs is introducing outdoor lifestyles to Filipinos. Where Filipinos are explorers at heart. The new EV models will hopefully bring new adventures to Filipinos.
Photos: George Buid, 2026.
