The Department of Tourism (DOT), in a landmark partnership with ACMobility and Mobility Access Philippines Ventures, Inc. (MAPVI), the exclusive distributor of BYD, officially launched the “Drive Electric. Love Pinas.” campaign today. This initiative marks a significant shift toward eco-conscious exploration, integrating cutting-edge electric vehicle (EV) technology with the country’s world-class tourism destinations.
The partnership was formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing, aimed at enhancing the traveler experience by deploying ultra-fast charging stations and encouraging the use of BYD’s sustainable electric vehicles across the archipelago.
The campaign aligns with the national agenda to prioritize renewable energy and climate resilience. By embedding EV infrastructure into key tourism circuits and the DOT’s Tourist Rest Areas (TRA), the initiative ensures that regional dispersal of tourism does not come at an environmental cost.
“By integrating electric mobility into our tourism circuits, we are strengthening access and supporting regional growth while actively managing our environmental impact,” said Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco. “This partnership applies our national priorities on the ground, positioning the Philippines as a destination aligned with global sustainability standards.”
ACMobility is set to provide the “spine” of this initiative through its expanding network of charging stations, ensuring that long-distance travel via EV is viable and convenient for both local and international tourists.
Jaime Alfonso Zobel de Ayala, CEO of ACMobility, emphasized the transformative nature of the collaboration:
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Accessibility: Making land travel more convenient through a robust charging network.
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Innovation: Utilizing BYD’s world-class EVs to reduce the carbon footprint of road trips.
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Synergy: Creating a seamless ecosystem that connects DOT’s vision with private sector technology.
To showcase the feasibility and beauty of EV travel, renowned Filipino-American content creator Wil Dasovich will headline a promotional series. Driving a BYD electric vehicle, Dasovich will:
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Explore key tourism destinations across the country.
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Highlight the amenities of the DOT’s Tourist Rest Areas (TRAs).
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Visit Michelin-awarded restaurants and local innovators to celebrate the “local heroes” of Philippine tourism.
Beyond the environmental benefits, Secretary Frasco noted that the move to electric mobility will stimulate local economies. The “Drive Electric. Love Pinas.” campaign is expected to drive traffic to community enterprises, food establishments, and local transport services, ultimately boosting household incomes linked to the tourism sector.
