Iloilo City Launches Region’s First Electric Taxis

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

A bold step toward sustainable transportation was made in Western Visayas with the arrival of the region’s first electric taxis.

Two electric vehicles (EVs) from Quarry Taxi have arrived in Iloilo City and are currently undergoing the permitting process under Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Memorandum Circular 2024-007.

The circular outlines the requirements for securing a Certificate of Public Convenience, which is essential for the legal operation of electric taxis.

Jeck Conlu, assistant regional director of the Land Transportation Office Region 6, said the move marks a milestone for green mobility in the region.

“This development is in line with our modernization program and promotion of environment-friendly transportation in Region 6,” Conlu said on May 23.

He added that the goal is to expedite the permit processing so the units can officially operate as “for hire” vehicles.

Quarry Taxi plans to roll out five electric taxis initially, with three additional units expected in the coming months.

“This is great news for Ilonggos because not everyone gets to ride an electric vehicle,” Conlu said.

“Now that we have them here, ordinary commuters can experience the difference between EVs and traditional taxis,” he added.