PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. urged Tesla on Monday to manufacture electric vehicles (EVs) in the country as it moves towards adopting a sustainable development transport system through the reduction of carbon emissions.
Speaking during the launching of the Tesla Center Philippines, President Marcos said more than helping environmental sustainability, Tesla is also empowering the local workforce.
“With plans to expand further, Tesla is building a generation of Filipinos equipped to lead in the global shift towards sustainable technologies such as this,” the President said, noting every hire represents an investment in the Filipino talent that drives transition forward.
“It is our fervent hope that Tesla might one day choose to manufacture its vehicles in the Philippines,” he said.
Highlighting the September inauguration of a state-of-the-art facility that produces advanced iron phosphate batteries essential to electric vehicles manufacturing, President Marcos expressed optimism that more companies will seize the opportunity to drive the sector in the coming years.
The President also underscored Tesla’s entry into the country, which he said would encourage local innovation and drive new investments in the EV sector.
On the part of the government, the President said it adopted policies and pursued strategic measures that reflect its commitment to enhancing sustainable transportation while meeting the needs of Filipino commuters.
Among these policies include the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion or TRAIN Act, which removed excise taxes on battery electric vehicles; and the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA), offering duty-free importation for charging stations, lowering user fees for EV owners and prioritizing registration and traffic privileges.
Tesla Inc. (Tesla) is a publicly listed company in the National Association of Security Dealers Automated Quotations with a market capitalization of above US$1.2 trillion.
Tesla Motors Philippines Inc. (Tesla Philippines), on the other hand, is a Tesla subsidiary responsible for importation, sales, after-sales, customer support, services, and charging infrastructure deployment and operation in the Philippines.
It officially entered the Philippines on November 8, 2024.
