The Asian Transport Observatory joined the University of the Philippines National Center for Transportation Studies webinar, "Light Electric Vehicles (LEVs) in the Philippines: Types and related Infrastructure, Policies and Operations," held on 23 June 2026 as part of the UP-NCTS Webinar Series 2026. The event brought together transport researchers, regulators, and local government representatives to discuss the growing role of e-bikes, e-trikes, and other light electric vehicles in Philippine mobility.

Alvin Mejia, Co-Team Lead of the Asian Transport Observatory, delivered the opening presentation on "Light Electric Vehicles: Asia and the Pacific Regional Context." The presentation situated the Philippine experience within broader regional trends in electric mobility, drawing on ATO data and visualizations on transport emissions, EV penetration, vehicle stock projections, electricity grid emissions, and development finance for e-mobility.

The webinar highlighted how LEVs are becoming increasingly visible in Philippine cities and communities, where they are used for short-distance trips, school transport, neighborhood mobility, small business logistics, and first- and last-mile connections. Their affordability, flexibility, and relatively low operating costs make them an important part of the evolving transport landscape, particularly in congested urban areas and local communities.

At the same time, speakers emphasized that the rapid uptake of LEVs requires clearer policy guidance, safer infrastructure, and better public understanding of vehicle categories, operating rules, registration, licensing, and road safety responsibilities. The webinar also discussed the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act, the enforcement of restrictions on e-bikes and e-trikes on major roads, and the need to balance accessibility, affordability, emissions reduction, and safety.

The program featured presentations from UP NCTS, UPD Electrical and Electronics Engineering Institute, the Land Transportation Office, and the Quezon City Traffic and Transport Management Division. The discussions covered LEV types and categories, relevant laws and regulations, safety issues, actual incidents, and practical safety tips for users and communities.

Through its participation, the Asian Transport Observatory underscored the value of data and regional evidence in shaping e-mobility policies. LEVs can support cleaner and more inclusive mobility, but their benefits will depend on well-designed regulations, safe streets, appropriate infrastructure, and integration with public transport and active mobility systems.

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