In a new study, the Apl.de.Ap Foundation International (APLFI), along with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the William Davidson Institute (WDI), warns that the Philippines’ electric vehicle (EV) ambitions are at risk due to a lack of skilled workers.
The transition to EVs in the Philippines is expected to impact as many as 138,000 workers currently in jobs related to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. These roles include mechanics, auto parts suppliers, and retail staff.
Currently, EV training in the country mainly covers basic skills such as battery handling and charger installation. However, as the industry grows, there will be a greater need for more advanced skills. The study emphasizes the importance of a national strategy to enhance workforce development and improve coordination among key stakeholders.
To bridge this gap, the APLFI and ADB are proposing a national EV Center of Excellence to bring together the industry, government, and education sectors.
“For us at APLFI, it has always been about people first,” said Apl.de.Ap, founder of the Apl.de.Ap Foundation International. “We wanted to make sure that the shift to e-mobility does not just benefit a few, but truly creates opportunities for workers, communities, and young people across the Philippines.”
APLFI Executive Director Audie Vergara added, “The proposed EV Center of Excellence can help bridge gaps between policy and practice, foster collaboration across the public and private sectors, and accelerate the development of a skilled, inclusive workforce.”
WDI’s Senior Director of Energy and Mobility Diana Páez noted the need for support systems like retraining and social protections to ensure that “no one is left behind” in the EV transition, while ADB’s Transport Sector Office Director James Leather emphasized that workforce development is a key enabler of EV adoption: “This shift is underway, and we are working with relevant stakeholders to support policy development and investments that can help drive the uptake,”
With locations in the United States and the Philippines, APLFI is committed to uplifting communities in both countries through education, healthcare and sustainable innovation. APLFI’s proposed Center of Excellence is a strategic step to align the country’s EV ambitions with long-term, inclusive workforce development.
