1,000 electric taxis seek run in Iloilo City

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

The operator of the Philippines’ first all-electric taxi fleet is seeking regulatory approval to deploy 1,000 electric taxis in Iloilo City by October 2025, citing rising commuter demand and alignment with national clean-transport policies.

Green and Smart Mobility Philippines Inc. submitted a letter to the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board on Sept. 23 requesting the opening of new taxi franchise slots to allow the units’ entry into the city.

The company said its proposal supports the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act, which promotes EV commercialization to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels and advance cleaner, sustainable transport.

Green GSM currently operates in Metro Manila, where it launched the country’s first all-EV taxi service supported by its own charging infrastructure.

It said the service has consistently earned five-star passenger ratings and generated thousands of driver jobs.

“Our modern EV fleet has been embraced by the market, and we are proud to note that more and more passengers prefer our services due to our affordable rates, smoother rides, and new, well-maintained vehicles,” the company said.

Green GSM said its model integrates EV taxi operations with the construction of charging stations.

It said the approach ensures long-term viability and supports EVIDA’s goals of reducing fossil fuel dependence, strengthening energy security, cutting air pollution, and promoting innovation and job creation.

“Green GSM is prepared to invest millions of dollars to bring these benefits to Iloilo City, demonstrating our long-term commitment to both municipalities and, at the same time, to national development,” it said.

The company said it has received encouraging responses from Iloilo City officials during initial consultations, along with strong public interest online and during in-person engagements.

“Healthy competition in the transport sector benefits the Filipino public by providing them with more and better choices. Our entry into Iloilo City will benefit the city’s passengers, promote innovation, and support the government’s broader goals for sustainable, inclusive growth,” it added.

LTFRB-6 director Richard Osmeña confirmed that the regional office received an endorsement from the Central Franchise Planning and Monitoring Division to evaluate and comment on the request.

On Nov. 7, Osmeña wrote to the city government to consult on the proposal, although he noted that LTFRB-6 is “inclined to refuse favorable endorsement of the request of Green GSM.”

“We deem it prudent to consult the city government on matters affecting public land transportation in the metropolis,” he said.