Philippines Expands EV Classification System: DOE Issues New Guidelines for Electrified Vehicles

The Department of Energy (DOE) has released Department Circular No. DC2025‑09‑0015, introducing new guidelines for classifying electrified vehicles (xEVs) in the Philippines. The directive, which takes effect on September 20, 2025, expands the official categories from four to six and establishes stricter reporting and recognition processes for manufacturers and importers. The move aligns with the country’s Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA) and is designed to support the rapid growth of the local EV market.

Six Official Categories of Electrified Vehicles

The new framework clarifies what counts as an electrified vehicle under Philippine law, providing consistency for industry, consumers, and regulators alike. The six categories are:

1. Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) – Powered solely by rechargeable batteries, with no tailpipe emissions.
2. Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) – Equipped with both an internal combustion engine (ICE) and a rechargeable energy storage system (RESS).
3. Plug‑in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) – Hybrids that can be externally charged, while still producing emissions.
4. Light Electric Vehicles (LEVs) – Micromobility units such as e‑bikes and e‑scooters, typically under 50 kg.
5. Range‑Extended Electric Vehicles (REEVs) – Propelled by electric motors but fitted with an ICE used only to generate electricity for the battery.
6. Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs) – Powered by hydrogen fuel cells, producing zero emissions, though fueling infrastructure is still absent locally.

This classification system brings the Philippines in line with international standards while also preparing the market for emerging technologies such as hydrogen fuel cells.

Reporting & Compliance Requirements

Beyond classification, the circular imposes new reporting obligations on manufacturers, assemblers, importers, and rebuilders (MARS):

• Quarterly Reports: EV Charger Monitoring Forms must be submitted by the 15th of the month following each quarter.
• Model Updates: If an EV model is discontinued, it must be reported and will be marked as “not marketed” and removed from the official Recognized EV List.
• Physical Inspections: DOE may conduct inspections to resolve discrepancies in documentation.
• Certificates: Non‑marketing or demo units will require provisional recognition certificates.

These measures aim to streamline industry processes while keeping government data on EV adoption accurate and up to date.

Why This Matters

For Consumers

Clearer classifications reduce confusion over what qualifies as an EV, helping buyers understand the differences between hybrids, plug‑ins, and full electrics. This will also influence eligibility for tax breaks and incentives.

For Industry

Manufacturers and importers now face more structured compliance obligations. While this may increase paperwork, it also ensures that the EV market is transparent, standardized, and aligned with global best practices.

For Policymakers

The DOE gains greater oversight, enabling it to adjust incentive programs, infrastructure planning, and environmental policies based on real‑time industry data.

The Bigger Picture: EV Growth in the Philippines

The timing of this regulation reflects the surging EV market. Between January and July 2025 alone, 29,715 EVs were registered, surpassing the total for all of 2024 (24,286). EVs now account for nearly 5% of new vehicle registrations nationwide.

While BEVs and hybrids dominate current adoption, the recognition of REEVs and FCEVs signals the government’s intent to prepare for advanced technologies. At the same time, LEVs are becoming an increasingly important mode of transport in urban centers, where micromobility solutions can ease congestion and reduce emissions.

Challenges Ahead

• Infrastructure Gap: Despite recognizing FCEVs, the lack of hydrogen fueling infrastructure makes adoption unlikely in the near term.
• Compliance Burden: Smaller importers may struggle to meet reporting obligations without added support.
• Consumer Awareness: Many buyers remain unfamiliar with the differences between HEVs, PHEVs, and REEVs, requiring education campaigns.
• Incentive Alignment: The government will need to ensure that fiscal incentives properly reflect these categories to avoid confusion or disputes.

Looking Ahead

The DOE’s new classification framework is a critical step toward building a mature, transparent EV market in the Philippines. With registrations surging, incentives expanding, and infrastructure slowly improving, the next test will be implementation. How smoothly the industry adapts—and how quickly charging networks expand—will determine whether the Philippines can sustain its EV momentum beyond 2025.