Dapitan City took a significant step toward sustainable transportation with the inauguration of two e-mobility projects, a collaboration between the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the City Government of Dapitan. The launch, held on February 27, marks the deployment of the innovative Charging in Minutes (CharM) technology and the integration of electric tricycles (e-trikes) into the city’s transport system.
Leading the inauguration were DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. and Dapitan City Mayor Seth Frederick P. Jalosjos, joined by key DOST officials, including Undersecretary Sancho A. Mabborang, Regional Director Martin A. Wee, assistant regional directors, and provincial directors. Local government officials and beneficiaries of the e-trike units were also present to witness the milestone event.
Charging in Minutes (CharM) Technology
Through DOST’s Grants-in-Aid (GIA) program, two CharM charging stations were installed in Dapitan City, marking a breakthrough in electric vehicle charging technology. Developed by the University of the Philippines Diliman with funding from DOST’s Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEERD), CharM significantly reduces charging time for e-vehicles. Unlike conventional charging, which takes four to six hours, CharM fully charges an EV in just 30 minutes. Additionally, the deployed CharM units are powered by a 5-KW solar photovoltaic system, supplying at least 70% of the stations’ energy needs, enhancing the sustainability of the initiative.
Deployment of Electric Tricycles
Six e-trike units, funded through DOST’s Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP), were also deployed as part of the city’s transportation modernization. The units were procured from existing suppliers, with major components sourced internationally. During the ceremony, Secretary Solidum announced that the country now has the capability to produce its own e-trikes. He cited the development efforts of Cagayan State University (CSU), which, with DOST’s support, has successfully created two models—one similar to the e-trikes deployed in Dapitan and another, the C-Trike, designed to convert traditional tricycles into electric-powered vehicles.
A Step Towards a Smart and Sustainable Future
These projects fall under DOST’s Smart and Sustainable Communities Program (SSCP), with Dapitan City serving as one of the pilot local government unit (LGU) partners. Highlighting the significance of this collaboration, Secretary Solidum stated, “Our engagement with LGU-Dapitan City is more than just a partnership for project implementation. Our collaboration is anchored on a deeper, more comprehensive goal of transforming Dapitan City into a smart and sustainable community.”
Mayor Jalosjos also emphasized that the SSCP aligns with Dapitan City’s vision of becoming a “Smart Heritage City.” He reiterated the LGU’s commitment to sustaining this partnership to provide better opportunities and improve the quality of life for Dapitanons.
The total assistance provided by DOST for the CharM charging stations and e-trike deployment amounted to P4.8 million. With these advancements, Dapitan City is poised to lead the way in green transportation, setting an example for other LGUs to follow in embracing sustainable and smart urban solutions.
