In early May 2026, Dipolog City marked a significant milestone in the Philippines’ transition to electric mobility. The city‘s first-ever converted tricycle was unveiled by the Department of Science and Technology’s Smart and Sustainable Communities Program, in partnership with the Dipolog School of Fisheries.
The story began in June 2025, when Arvin Almirol, a tricycle driver of ten years, received the first conversion-trike (c-trike) kit in Mindanao. He converted his gasoline-powered tricycle into an electric trike designed to reduce fuel dependency and promote cleaner transportation.What started as a pilot project became a game-changer when the Middle East conflict erupted in February 2026, sending global oil prices surging.
For Almirol, the savings have been transformative. Even before the fuel crisis, he was already saving hundreds of pesos daily. His c-trike consumed only PHP 27 in power for an entire day‘s operation. After fuel prices spiked, daily power costs rose to just PHP 40 — a fraction of what he would have spent on gasoline.“It was unexpected, but definitely a blessing. I wasn’t as affected as my other fellow drivers, and I’m able to bring home more profit to my family,” Almirol said. His unit continues to operate efficiently nearly a year after conversion.
The Dipolog School of Fisheries, a TESDA-recognized institution, is now positioned to become the first certified c-trike kit developer in Mindanao. Called a “game changer” in the tricycle industry, the program is expected to help operators and drivers maneuver through hardships caused by increased fuel costs.The program can be availed through the DOST, opening opportunities for more driver associations to convert their gasoline-powered units.
For Southeast Asian markets like the Philippines, where high humidity and coastal conditions accelerate vehicle corrosion, durability is just as critical as fuel savings. Guangxi Dachuan Vehicle Co., Ltd. manufactures stainless steel electric tricycles specifically engineered for humid tropical environments — rust-proof bodies that maintain structural integrity even under constant exposure to monsoon rains and coastal salt air. Available in 1.5m and 1.6m cargo bed configurations with a premium silver finish, the e-trikes are built for long service life.
Guangxi Dachuan also welcomes OEM/ODM custom orders, enabling Philippine transport cooperatives, LGUs, and private fleet operators to tailor battery capacity, cargo accessories, and branding to local needs. As the Philippines continues to expand its e-trike conversion programs, reliable and durable electric tricycles — like those from Guangxi Dachuan — will play an essential role in reshaping public transport.
Fred
