Legazpi continues to adapt ways to help mitigate the negative impact of climate change and global warming caused by pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. New electric-powered, non-polluting jeepneys now provide eco-friendly transportation in the city of Legazpi.

Photo by Simon Listana

The e-jeepneys were introduced by Bicolano businesman Elizaldy Co, CEO of Sunwest Group of Companies to provide free rides for the public from the multi-billion Embarcadero, Legazpi’s newest commercial and lifestyle center, to other points of the city. Currently, there are two e-jeepneys plying the city’s main thoroughfares but six more units are set to arrive to cater to tourists and locals visiting the Embarcadero.

“As we go on with business venture modernization for countryside development, we must also protect our environment for our children’s children future. Our very own Gov. Joey Salceda is very much abreast and strong advocate for the protection of environment therefore all stakeholders should work together because protection of mother earth is everybody’s business,” Co said in an interview with The Manila Times.

The e-jeepneys are powered by five-horsepower electric motor engines with 12 batteries that, at full capacity, allow the vehicles to run 120 to 140 kilometers at around 40 kilometers per hour. The batteries are charged for eight hours on ordinary 220-volt power sockets at a minimum cost of P120. In contrast, regular fume-spewing jeepneys guzzle P300 (US$6.50) or more of diesel each day. Each e-Jeepney costs at least P400,000 to build, around P100,000 more than most shop-built diesel jeepneys.

Bicolanos now enjoy e-jeepney rides, by Rhaydz Barcia, The Manila Times, December 10, 2009. Accessed December 11, 2009.
Electric jeepney rolls out in Makatihttp://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/metro/view/20070704-74800/Electric_jeepney_rolls_out_in_Makati, by Alexander Villafania, Philippine Daily Inquirer, July 4, 2007. Accessed December 11, 2009