DOTr, Marina Plan Electric and Hybrid Ferry Pilots on Two Philippine Routes

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) are planning to pilot fully electric and hybrid ferries on selected Philippine routes, aiming to reduce fuel consumption, carbon emissions, and vessel operating costs.

Under the proposal, fully electric ferries could serve the Iloilo–Bacolod route, while hybrid vessels are being considered for Batangas–Calapan. The initiative remains in the planning stage, with a stakeholder consultation scheduled for November 4, 2026, in Iloilo.

Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez said the adoption of cleaner ferry technology could benefit shipowners and passengers by making vessel operations more efficient.

Lower fuel consumption could help operators manage expenses while reducing the environmental impact of domestic ferry services. However, the announcement does not establish a fare reduction or a start date for passenger operations.

Two routes, different technologies

The proposed routes reflect different approaches to reducing emissions from domestic shipping.

For Iloilo–Bacolod, the agencies are exploring fully electric vessels. For Batangas–Calapan, the proposed pilot would use hybrid ships.

These plans follow an International Maritime Organization–World Bank study on improving the safety and energy efficiency of domestic ferries. MARINA previously identified electric propulsion for shorter routes, hybrid technology for selected services, and fuel-efficiency upgrades for longer journeys as possible pathways.

According to the DOTr, around 300 inter-island ferries account for approximately 86% of carbon dioxide emissions from domestic ferries, highlighting the potential value of targeting this segment for improvements.

Consultation to discuss pilot requirements

The November 4 consultation on the Interisland Ferry Decarbonization Pilot Project will bring together government agencies, development partners, shipowners, and other industry stakeholders to discuss requirements for the proposed tests.

The consultation is a preparatory step toward implementation. Details on vessel deployment and the eventual start of testing have yet to be announced.

Learning from Norway’s ferry systems

The initiative also follows a four-day study visit to Norway organized last month by the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Manila for maritime transport representatives.

The visit explored the possible adoption of electric ferry network systems in the Philippines. According to the embassy, cooperation between the two countries supports cleaner fuel use, lower transportation costs, and greater use of inter-island and inland waterways.

For passengers, the proposed pilots represent an early step toward cleaner ferry travel. Their practical benefits will depend on how the vessels perform and how the project moves from planning into operation.

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