Marcos says Tesla's entry in PH can help EV industry

President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr. on Monday expressed hope that Tesla could manufacture their vehicles in the Philippines, noting that this will also help the electric vehicle industry to flourish.

Marcos said this during the launching of Tesla Center Philippines in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig. In his speech, Marcos said Tesla’s decision to invest in Manila is ''a recognition of our nation’s potential, underpinned by forward-thinking policies and a collective determination to innovate.''

''As Tesla lays the groundwork, and as we invest in infrastructure and implement policies supporting the industry, competition will grow. Then, what may seem as aspirational today – half of the vehicles in our streets as EVs – will become attainable tomorrow,'' Marcos said.

''More than helping environmental sustainability, Tesla also empowers our workforce. Every hire represents an investment in the Filipino talent that will drive this transition forward. With plans to expand further, Tesla is building a generation of Filipinos equipped to lead in the global shift towards sustainable technologies such as this,'' he added.

''It is our fervent hope that Tesla might one day choose to manufacture its vehicles in the Philippines,'' the President said. '

Marcos has been vocal in supporting the electric vehicle industry as had tasked concerned agencies to focus on finding ways to lower the cost of production, financing and charging infrastructure to ensure a seamless EV industry.

Marcos emphasized that with a more conducive and empowering environment in the electric vehicle industry, he is confident that more companies will seize the opportunity to drive this very vital sector in the coming years.

He added that Tesla’s entry into the country would encourage local innovation and drive new investments in the EV sector.

''So to Tesla, thank you for believing in the Philippines. Your investment in the country extends beyond transportation and infrastructure; it is in the people and potential of the country,'' Marcos said. —KG, GMA Integrated News