The Department of Tourism (DOT), under the leadership of Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, announced a landmark strategic partnership with Ayala Group’s AC Mobility and BYD Cars Philippines to promote electric vehicle (EV)-powered tourism nationwide.
The initiative, discussed during a high-level meeting at the DOT Central Office on Thursday, aims to establish the Philippines as a premier sustainable tourism destination by connecting key destinations across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao using BYD’s electric cars and AC Mobility’s expansive network of charging stations.
Secretary Frasco underscored the partnership’s significance, noting its direct alignment with the DOT’s core priorities of sustainability, inclusivity, and destination resilience.
“This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in the modernization of Philippine tourism. By embracing electric vehicles, we are not only adopting a modern, eco-friendly mode of transportation but also making a firm commitment to planetary sustainability,” Secretary Frasco stated. “Furthermore, this initiative will foster meaningful connections between travelers and local communities, generating tangible economic benefits for the surrounding areas while promoting inclusivity in our travel offerings.”
The partnership is set to launch several key programs to facilitate green travel in the country:
- Green Travel Routes: Establishing dedicated EV-friendly travel circuits to showcase the Philippines’ diverse destinations, culture, and gastronomy.
- Charging Infrastructure: Integrating charging stations within the DOT’s network of Tourist Rest Areas (TRAs) to ensure seamless and reliable travel for EV users across the archipelago.
Jill Peña, Brand Marketing Director of BYD Cars Philippines, expressed enthusiasm for integrating clean mobility into the tourism sector. “We plan to integrate our electric vehicles directly into tourism circuits, offering visitors an unparalleled and zero-emission way to explore the beauty of the Philippines. This commitment extends beyond providing cars; it’s about establishing the infrastructure needed for Green Travel Routes,” Ms. Peña shared.
AC Mobility, the mobility arm of Ayala Corporation, continues to lead the country’s shift toward sustainable transportation. AC Mobility Head for Government Relations, Yvonne Castro, emphasized the company’s role in accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles by ensuring a robust charging ecosystem.
The meeting held on November 20, 2025, included other key officials from the private sector, including AC Mobility’s Network Operations & Business Development Head, Maria Cecilia Bejoc, and Brand on Demand President, James Duran.
