President Marcos backs shift to greener transport system

MANILA, Philippines — Citing the increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters due to climate change, President Marcos has renewed his commitment to shift to a greener transport system in the country.

Marcos made the remarks during the presentation of the new generation of Tamaraw and hydrogen vehicle technology of Toyota Motor Philippines at Malacañang on Friday.

“Toyota Motor Philippines demonstrated the features of this hydrogen-powered vehicle, providing us a glimpse of new benchmarks for a greener and more innovative automotive industry,” the President said.

“When the car first came in, the first place that I went to was the exhaust. And the reason I did that was to highlight the fact that the only exhaust of a hydrogen-powered engine is water and water vapor. And that is as green as we can get,” he said.

Marcos hailed the Japanese car manufacturer for leading this kind of technology down to the grassroots level not only in the Philippines but around the world.

“We will certainly support that as it brings us to a newer and greener transport system,” the Chief Executive said.

Among those present at the event were Masahiko Maeda, Toyota Asia Region chief executive officer, officials of Toyota Motor Philippines and Toyota Motor Company and First Lady Liza Marcos.

Marcos said Toyota’s global “Beyond Zero” program – which aspires to achieve zero emissions – complements his administration’s commitment towards developing more renewable and clean energy sources.

“With the use of hydrogen technology in vehicle electrification, we are presented with sustainable transport solutions that intensify our call for environmental stewardship,” he said.

Marcos earlier approved the expansion of the coverage of Executive Order 12, which originally decreased tariffs on electric vehicles until 2028. The revised policy now encompasses e-motorcycles, e-bicycles, nickel metal hydride accumulator batteries, e-tricycles, hybrid electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, jeepneys or buses.

The administration is also pushing through with the public utility vehicle modernization program – which supports cleaner and greener transportation options – despite opposition from some transport groups.

The President said the massive devastation brought by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine in Luzon underscores the importance of adaptability and preparedness.

“Embracing this responsibility becomes even more urgent as we confront the increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters, exacerbated by our position in the typhoon belt,” the Chief Executive said.

He added that the administration is committed to adapt inclusive, adaptable and technologically-driven strategies for emissions reduction across all sectors and industries.

Marcos also welcomed the revival of the iconic Tamaraw, which he said is synonymous with reliability.

“Now, we have the new Tamaraw which has again been redesigned for the modern environment. And with all of the new technologies that Toyota has developed, incorporated into a design that is specifically made for the Philippine condition,” he said.