In a significant move towards enhancing collaboration, Mr. Ralph Legaspi, Vice President of the Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP), recently paid a courtesy visit to Assistant Commissioner Jet Maronilla of the Bureau of Customs (BOC). This meeting marks a crucial step forward in the implementation of the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA) and in building a stronger partnership between EVAP and BOC.
The EVIDA law, which aims to advance the development and adoption of electric vehicles in the Philippines, necessitates close coordination between government agencies and industry stakeholders. The discussions between Mr. Legaspi and Assistant Commissioner Maronilla centered on key issues including the importation of electric vehicles and their components, tariff incentives, and the streamlined processing of EV-related shipments.
Mr. Legaspi underscored the pivotal role of the Bureau of Customs in enforcing the EVIDA law effectively. He stated, “The Bureau of Customs is instrumental in ensuring that the benefits and incentives outlined in the EVIDA law are fully realized by our industry. Our engagement with Assistant Commissioner Maronilla underscores EVAP’s commitment to working closely with BOC to overcome challenges and ensure the smooth and efficient importation of electric vehicles and components.”
This meeting also set the stage for the upcoming 12th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit (PEVS), scheduled for October 24-26, 2024, at the SMX Convention Center in the Mall of Asia (MOA) complex. The summit is poised to gather key stakeholders from government, industry, and the private sector to discuss and promote the growth of the electric vehicle industry in the country. The collaboration between EVAP and the Bureau of Customs is expected to be crucial in ensuring the policies and processes discussed at the summit are implemented effectively.
Assistant Commissioner Maronilla expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “The Bureau of Customs is committed to supporting the growth of the electric vehicle industry in the Philippines. We understand the importance of the EVIDA law in fostering sustainable transportation, and we are keen to work with EVAP to ensure its successful implementation.”
During the meeting, both parties reviewed the current state of EV imports, the application of tax incentives under EVIDA, and explored potential future joint initiatives to bolster the electric vehicle sector. This collaboration is anticipated to lead to more efficient processes and clearer guidelines, benefiting industry players and consumers alike.
Mr. Legaspi concluded, “This meeting marks the beginning of a stronger partnership between EVAP and the Bureau of Customs. We are dedicated to maintaining this dialogue and working together to create a more conducive environment for the electric vehicle industry in the Philippines, particularly as we prepare for the Philippine EV Summit this October.”
