The government is eyeing electric and hybrid ferries to serve sea travelers crossing short and medium-distance routes, respectively.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is planning to pilot-test electric ferries for the Iloilo-Bacolod route and hybrid vessels for the Batangas-Calapan route, according to the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA).
The initiative is in compliance with President Marcos’ thrust to push cleaner and more sustainable transportation.
‘We want to see how we can use this technology and how it would benefit passengers, ship owners and even our health and environment. It can reduce fuel consumption, carbon emissions and operational expenses of shipping companies,’ DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez said.
Ramon Hernandez of the MARINA overseas shipping service division said that pure electric ferries are being considered for shorter routes, while hybrid ships are more practical for medium-distance trips. Hybrid vessels can use dual power sources, the traditional diesel fuel engine and the electric motor with rechargeable batteries.
MARINA said there were around 69 million sea travels recorded in 2025.
Of the estimated 4,000 inter-island ferries, 300 account for about 86 percent of carbon dioxide emissions.
The use of electric and hybrid ferries was part of a study meant to improve the safety and energy efficiency of domestic ferries.
Routes serving at least 500,000 passengers annually are suitable for electric ferry operations.
Existing ferries may be retrofitted to be able to adapt to changes, which may open opportunities for the local shipbuilding industry.