The Department of Energy (DOE) yesterday reassured the public of the safety and reliability of electric vehicles (EVs) and their charging infrastructure in the Philippines, following reports of an incident involving a Nissan LEAF that emitted smoke while charging at a dealership in Metro Manila.
In a statement, the DOE has been in close coordination with Nissan Philippines, which is conducting a full investigation into the cause of the incident. The Department is closely monitoring the progress of this investigation and will mandate any necessary corrective actions to ensure public safety. The DOE also conducts regular inspections of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (EVCS) to ensure compliance with the EVCS Registration and Accreditation Guidelines (Department Circular No. DC2023-05-0011) and its Implementing Guidelines, including the Obligations of EVCS Providers and EVCS Specifications (ORSI).
“The safety of the public is our paramount concern,” said Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin. “While this isolated incident is concerning, this should not deter us from the national goal of transitioning to cleaner and more sustainable transportation. The Philippines has an existing regulatory framework under the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA) to ensure that all EVs and charging stations on our roads meet stringent safety standards.”
To address public concerns directly, the DOE issued the following Frequently Asked Questions:
- Is it safe to use Electric Vehicles in the Philippines?
Answer: Yes. All electric vehicles sold in the Philippines must undergo a rigorous homologation and certification process. This includes adhering to international safety standards (like ISO standards) and Philippine National Standards (PNS) covering battery safety, electrical systems, and crashworthiness. EVs have multiple built-in safety systems, including automated power cut-offs, to protect occupants and prevent electrical hazards.
- How are EV charging stations regulated to ensure they are safe?
Answer: EV charging stations are subject to strict regulations implemented by the DOE. The EVCS Registration and Accreditation Guidelines (Department Circular No. DC2023 05-0011) and its Implementing Guidelines set technical requirements for charging stations, such as minimum Ingress Protection (IP) ratings and other safety specifications. All public or commercial charging stations must be installed by accredited providers, inspected, and registered with the DOE. The equipment itself, including plugs and cables, must have an Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) or Philippine Standard (PS) mark, and all electrical work must comply with the Philippine Electrical Code, which is among the strictest in the world. These ensure that EVCS operates safely and reliably, whether installed indoors or outdoors, and help guarantee the safe and proper charging of EVs.
- What is the government doing about the specific incident involving the Nissan LEAF?
Answer: The DOE is actively monitoring the comprehensive investigation being conducted by Nissan Philippines and its technical experts. We have mandated that the investigation identify the root cause of the incident. The findings will be reviewed by the DOE, and if a product or system-level fault is identified, we will take all necessary regulatory actions to ensure the issue is rectified for all similar units in the market and to prevent a recurrence. The Department also conducts inspections of EVCS to ensure safety and compliance with Implementing Guidelines on the Obligations of EVCS Providers and EVCS Specifications (ORSI) and Department Circular No. DC2023-05-0011.
- Are the batteries in EVs a significant fire risk?
Answer: All forms of energy storage, including gasoline in a conventional car, carry inherent risks. However, EV batteries are housed in armored, sealed casings and are managed by advanced battery management systems (BMS) that constantly monitor temperature and voltage to prevent overheating. While thermal incidents are possible, they are statistically rare. The safety protocols and engineering standards for EVs are designed to minimize these risks and are often more advanced than those for traditional vehicles.
- What should I do if I notice a problem with my EV or a public charging station?
Answer: If you notice any unusual behavior from your EV, such as strange noises, error messages, or overheating, stop the vehicle in a safe location and contact your dealership or the vehicle manufacturer immediately. If you encounter a public charging station that appears damaged or is malfunctioning, do not use it. Please report it immediately to the property owner through our official channels so we can ensure it is inspected and made safe.
The DOE remains steadfast in its commitment to implementing the EVIDA law and ensuring the safe, accelerated adoption of electric vehicles in the country. The Department will continue to work closely with all stakeholders to strengthen regulations and provide a safe environment for all EV users.
