Baricuatro opposes deployment of e-taxis in Cebu

Local

CEBU'S transportation landscape could face disruption as 600 new electric taxis prepare to enter the province.

This is the warning of Gov. Pamela Baricuatro, arguing that the move could threaten local drivers’ livelihoods and destabilize the existing taxi ecosystem.

Baricuatro strongly opposed the provisional authority granted to Green & Smart Mobility, which allows the deployment of 600 EV taxi units in Cebu.

“I vehemently oppose the provisional authority granted to Green & Smart Mobility that allows the deployment of 600 EV taxi units to operate in Cebu Province. The issue is not environmental nor the EV technology itself. The core problem lies with the license to operate,” she said.

The governor clarified that her objection does not target electric vehicle technology or environmental initiatives.

Her concern centers on the licensing process, which she says, under the current circumstances, could unfairly displace operators who have followed regulations, paid fees, and relied on the system to maintain orderly, safe service.

She also questioned why international entities are being granted operator licenses rather than being limited to supplying vehicles or augmenting existing fleets.

Licensed operators, she stressed, must assume full responsibility for safety standards, data management, labor practices, and route planning.

Baricuatro raised additional concerns about traffic and road safety, pointing out that Cebu already struggles with congestion.

"Adding 600 new vehicles, even if EV, without robust traffic management, could worsen congestion, parking, and safety conditions for all road users,” she said.

The governor emphasized the need for transparent and enforceable regulations, fair competition, and verified plans covering vehicle maintenance, insurance, and rider protections. She called for a thorough, public, and data-driven review of the provisional licenses before any deployment.

Baricuatro also urged authorities to establish a transition framework that integrates new EV taxis without harming existing operators or worsening traffic conditions.

She called for an open dialogue with key stakeholders, including taxi associations, EV operators, commuters, urban planners, and traffic authorities, to ensure that Cebu’s transport system remains safe, fair, and sustainable.

Her stance reflects concerns previously voiced by local taxi operators.

Baricuatro appealed to Green & Smart Mobility to participate in a constructive review process and urged authorities to prioritize transparency, accountability, and the long-term welfare of Cebu’s residents.

“We owe our drivers, riders, and communities a transportation system that is safe, fair, and sustainable. I remain committed to rigorous oversight and to taking bold, thoughtful steps that put residents first,” she said.

Last November, members of the United Cebu Taxi Operators Association (UCTOA) expressed opposition to the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board’s (LTFRB) plan to add 600 EV taxi franchises to the province’s existing 6,200 units.

Operators said the move could oversaturate the market and disrupt livelihoods, noting that no consultation had been conducted to gather their views.(MyTVCebu)