A symbol of transformation
Of the more than 200 charging stations in 100 areas eyed to be built all over the Philippines by the end of the year, the recently-opened charging hub at U.P. Town Center in Quezon City, according to ACMobility CEO and president, Jaime Alfonso Zobel de Ayala, is of utmost importance.
During his speech in front of hundreds in attendance during its opening, the top honcho said that they have been working hard to be the catalyst of the transition toward electrified mobility in the country.
“We are focused on building an ecosystem that will support the Philippines’ shift toward this enabling technology,” he shared.
“We see electric vehicle technology as a powerful opportunity to help all Filipinos to live more sustainable and aspirational lives,” he then added.
“Driven by this mission, we’ve made a commitment to strengthen the country’s EV structure.”
One of the biggest
The U.P. Town Center charging hub offers six vehicle slots equipped with both DC fast chargers and AC chargers. Being one of the biggest stations, it caters to a wide range of EVs, including private cars and public utility vehicles.
This project likewise marks a significant milestone in ACMobility’s partnership with Meralco, aiming to expand the EV infrastructure nationwide. The collaboration is crucial in supporting the transition to a sustainable, electrified transportation system.
To further emphasize the message of sustainability, the charging hub is even adorned with a stunning mural by Professor Toym Imao and his students from the University of the Philippines College of Fine Arts.
Symbol of transformation
Moreover, with the countless charging hubs they have already built and are aiming to build, the newly-opened station in Quezon City “lands another mark on their map.”
However, unlike those they have built, the young Zobel de Ayala reiterated that the area is a “really, really important location.”
“It’s really a meaningful and really significant milestone. In many ways we see this location as a symbol of the transformation,” he averred.
“We want this technology, this ecosystem to enable communities.”
According to him, when they select locations for their charging stations, they usually focus on areas with high traffic and a strong commitment to sustainability–like Quezon City.
The prime spot, which is located right at the heart of universities and communities, is just perfect for building an ecosystem for electrified mobility for future generations.
The proximity to key universities like the University of the Philippines, Ateneo de Manila University and Miriam College, per Jaime, makes it a forefront for connecting with students, professionals, faculty and the commuting public which is critical to the EV movement.
“It’s essential that our stakeholders be a part of this.”
Champion for environmental initiatives
Furthermore, another reason why ACMobility chose the area is because of its leader, its city mayor, Hon. Joy Belmonte, who is also recognized by the United Nations as an environmental champion.
In fact, of the 100 QC buses that offer free rides to its citizens, a dozen of the fleet is already electric-powered.
Since 2019, the city has been actively pushing for greener mobility with its goal of having all 25,000 tricycles plying its streets to be 100-percent electric in a 10-year span.
“The city’s dedication to a greener future aligns with ACMobility’s mission to make electrified transportation accessible to all,” Zobel de Ayala continued.
“By placing this at the central area, it ensures easy access to reliable EV infrastructure for both residents and visitors supporting private vehicles and public transportation, as well.”
