Davao City is steering toward a greener future as the proposed Electric Vehicle (EV) Ordinance moves to its second reading next Tuesday.
The measure, authoredp by Councilor Temujin “Tek” Ocampo, chairperson of the Committee on Environment, highlights the dual benefits of environmental protection and economic relief.
Ocampo noted that studies indicate EVs can operate at a cost as low as P1 to P2 per kilometer, offering a much cheaper alternative to traditional internal combustion engines.
To foster a robust EV ecosystem, the ordinance introduces a comprehensive package of incentives specifically targeting the lifecycle management of EV batteries.
Under the proposal, facilities dedicated to battery recycling and repurposing will be granted a 100% exemption from local business taxes and lease fees for the first three years and that this incentive tapers to a 75% discount in the fourth year and 50% in the fifth.
Additionally, these facilities will benefit from a 50% discount on real property taxes during their fourth and fifth years of operation.
The ordinance strictly promotes the use of “full” electric vehicles to ensure zero tailpipe emissions.
Beyond vehicle adoption, the measure mandates the development of critical infrastructure, requiring the installation of charging stations across the city to serve both private and public transport sectors.
Ocampo emphasized that the ordinance is a timely response to the current fuel crisis.
He said by incentivizing manufacturers, dealers, and operators, the city hopes to make sustainable transport a more practical and affordable reality for Dabawenyos.
“This is part of our commitment to protect the environment and reduce pollution. Beyond the environmental impact, we want to ease the financial burden on our citizens caused by fluctuating oil prices,” Ocampo said.
