The Department of Energy (DOE) has issued a clearer and more harmonized electric vehicle (EV) classification system to reinforce the country’s commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable, and future-ready transportation sector.
Department Circular (DC) No. DC2025-09-0015, which takes effect on 20 September 2025, amends the EV Recognition Guidelines under DC2023-05-0012 and establishes a consistent, comprehensive framework for classifying EVs. This update ensures full alignment with the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA) and supports the nationwide effort to accelerate EV adoption.
To maintain up-to-date market data, stakeholders are required to submit the EV Charger Monitoring Form quarterly, by the 15th of the month following the quarter’s end. Data revisions will be permitted except for core specifications, such as EV classification, which will require a new application. EVs no longer marketed will be removed from the Recognized EV List once formally reported.
For EVs intended solely for promotional or non-marketing purposes, applicants must submit a specific notice and may receive a Provisional Certificate or Non-Marketing Certificate, as applicable. The DOE will also conduct physical inspections to address documentation discrepancies.
“The issuance of this policy is a critical step toward building a more organized, accessible, and future-ready EV market in the Philippines,” said Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin. “By harmonizing our EV recognition guidelines, we are reducing administrative burdens, increasing transparency, and accelerating EV adoption nationwide.”
The updated circular also introduces a harmonized EV classification system with detailed categories for Battery EVs (BEVs), Hybrid EVs (HEVs), Plug-in Hybrid EVs (PHEVs), Light EVs (LEVs), Range-Extended EVs (REEVs), and Fuel Cell EVs (FCEVs). This comprehensive framework ensures consistency across EV technologies and provides clear guidance for stakeholders.
Recent data from the DOTr–Land Transportation Office (LTO) underscores the growing momentum of EV adoption, with 29,715 EVs registered from January to July 2025, already surpassing the full-year total of 24,286 in 2024. EV registrations now represent nearly five percent of new vehicle registrations, marking a threefold increase since 2023. DC2025-09-0015 was published in the Official Gazette on 05 September 2025 and will take effect on 20 September 2025.
The full text of the Department Circular is available on the DOE website, reflecting another milestone in the Philippines’ transition toward cleaner, more sustainable, and inclusive mobility.
