LTFRB reserves 7,500 Metro Manila ride-hailing slots for electric vehicles

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has approved 8,750 new Transport Network Vehicle Service (TNVS) slots across Metro Manila and key Luzon regions. The move aims to increase public transport availability while aligning the ride-hailing sector with national environmental goals.

Of the total allocation, 7,500 slots in Metro Manila are exclusively reserved for electric vehicles, specifically Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs). Under Memorandum Circular 2026-084, conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and standard hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) are ineligible for these Metro Manila permits. Beyond the capital, the LTFRB opened 650 slots in the Ilocos Region and 600 slots in the Bicol Region, with half of the allocations in both regions reserved for EVs.

Addressing Transit Shortfalls

This regulatory shift follows monitoring efforts and studies conducted by the board. Data indicated that existing TNVS allocations were insufficient to meet the rising volume of commuters and expanding economic activity within the National Capital Region. The LTFRB noted that growth in sectors such as tourism has further strained transport capacity in these key Luzon areas. Acting LTFRB Chairman Pua stated that the opening of these slots is intended to support the government’s "aggressive economic push across the country."

A Push for Decarbonization

The decision represents a strategic effort to decarbonize urban transport in the Philippines. By leveraging the ride-hailing market, the government is attempting to accelerate the adoption of cleaner vehicle technology. Restricting new slots to BEVs and PHEVs creates a direct financial and regulatory incentive for transport operators to transition away from traditional internal combustion engines, effectively using the permit system as a tool for environmental policy.

Future Outlook

Industry observers will now watch how quickly operators pivot to electric fleets to secure these limited slots. While the policy provides a clear path for EV integration, the speed of adoption will likely depend on the availability of charging infrastructure and the affordability of electric vehicles for individual operators. It remains to be seen if this model of exclusive EV slots will be expanded to other major metropolitan areas outside of Luzon to further the national goal of sustainable transportation.