The Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP) recently paid a courtesy visit to Manila Electric Company (Meralco) as both organizations reaffirm their collaboration to support the country’s growing electrified vehicle ecosystem. The meeting highlighted the shared role of industry advocates and power utilities in pushing a wider EV adoption in the country.
EVAP was represented by its leadership team, led by Chairman Ferdi Raquelsantos and Rommel Juan, alongside President Edmund Araga and board members John Lee, Ralph Legaspi, Carla Buencamino, and Jojo Conde. The delegation reflected EVAP’s expanding role in policy decisions, infrastructure development, and coordination among stakeholders involved in electric mobility.
Meralco welcomed the group with senior executives headed by Executive Vice-President and Chief Operating Officer Ronnie L. Aperocho. The electric company was also represented by Ferdinand O. Geluz, Senior Vice-President and Chief Revenue Officer; Charina P. Padua, First Vice-President and Head of Customer Retail Services; Raymond B. Ravelo, First Vice-President and Chief Sustainability Officer of Meralco and President & CEO of Movem; Ralph M. Menchavez, Vice-President and Head of Commercial Strategy Management and Energy Solutions; and Mark Anthony T. Delumen, Assistant Vice-President and Regulatory Relations Manager.
The discussion focused on the importance of close coordination between the EV industry and the energy sector. Particularly as EV adoption begins to scale, both parties stated that a sustainable transition requires an ecosystem approach that includes vehicle manufacturers, fleet operators, charging providers, regulators, and utilities working together.
Energy readiness and long-term planning were also key topics, with emphasis on ensuring infrastructure expansion is matched by a stable and reliable power grid. EVAP and Meralco explored opportunities for further collaboration, including the co-organizing of EV conferences, technical forums, and industry summits aimed at improving public awareness and supporting informed policy development.
EVAP acknowledged Meralso’s initiatives in electrification, particularly through Movem’s work in deploying charging stations and supporting clean energy solutions. Meralco, in turn, expressed continued support for EVAP’s advocacy efforts and signalled openness to deeper engagement through joint programs and technical cooperation.
Both organizations noted that the global shift toward electric mobility presents a significant opportunity for the Philippines. According to EVAP and Meralco, strengthening partnerships between utilities and industry groups will be crucial in building a competitive and future-ready EV landscape.
