DTI-SBCorp releases PHP 15M for e-transport loans

The Department of Trade and Industry’s Small Business Corporation has released PHP 15 million in loans to the first batch of transport cooperatives and operators under the E-Transport Loan Program, supporting their shift to electric vehicles amid rising fuel costs.

The initial loan recipients are Arca Guadalupe Market!-Market! Transport Cooperative; Pm Jeepney Drivers & Operators Services Inc.; Daanghari Modern Jeepney Transport Cooperative; AFP-PNP Housing Taguig Guadalupe Transport Cooperative; and Zapote, Imus, Dasma, GMA, Palapala, Paliparan Transport Cooperative.

Launched in April 2026, the program allocated PHP 2 billion to provide accessible financing for small transport operators and drivers transitioning to electric vehicles.

The DTI said the financing initiative is intended to lower long-term operating costs while helping build a cleaner and more energy-secure transport sector.

“With this program, we are giving our small transport operators and drivers an avenue to transition to EVs to ensure a more stable income for their families and reduce pollution for our communities. The Marcos Jr. administration is here to help make that transition possible by providing accessible and affordable financing options,” DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque said.

The E-Transport Loan Program forms part of the government’s broader push to modernize public transport and reduce dependence on fuel-powered vehicles.

SBCorp said the program was officially launched on April 21, 2026, to help small transport operators shift to electric vehicles as fuel costs continue to pressure daily operations.

Under the program, qualified borrowers may access up to PHP 1.5 million per vehicle, with a maximum loan amount of PHP 3 million per borrower.

Loans are payable for up to five years under competitive terms, according to SBCorp.

Eligible borrowers include public utility vehicle operators and drivers, including transport network vehicle service drivers and operators with a Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board Certificate of Public Convenience or Provisional Authority.

Applicants must also be duly registered with the DTI or the Securities and Exchange Commission.

For TNVS drivers and operators, applicants must have active status in transport network companies.

Interested operators and drivers may apply directly through the SBCorp Money app by selecting the E-Transport Loan icon.

The public may visit the SBCorp website or coordinate with DTI offices and Negosyo Centers nationwide for more information.

SBCorp is a government financial institution attached to the DTI and mandated to provide financing and other support services to micro, small, and medium enterprises.