MORE Electric and Power Corporation (MORE Power), the sister company of Primelectric Holdings Inc./Negros Electric Power Corporation, is taking another initiative in its commitment to bringing green technology for more eco-friendly transport alternatives.
SM Iloilo Electric Bus, launched on Friday, September 15, was MORE Power’s remarkable step in Iloilo City’s journey toward eco-conscious mobility, in collaboration with SM City Iloilo.
The service will be in line with Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas’ visionary endeavors that will aim to create a more resilient future for the Ilonggos.
The inaugural event was attended by Mayor Treñas; Niel Parcon, MORE Power’s Vice President for Corporate Planning and Regulatory Affairs; and Engineer Gilbert A. Domingo, SM City Iloilo Mall Manager.
During the event, Parcon emphasized the significance of an electric bus service, saying that it represents more than just a mode of transportation — it also symbolizes a new era of mobility characterized by safety, comfort and environmental responsibility.
He added that this milestone reflects MORE Power’s unwavering commitment to embrace green technology as a catalyst for positive change.
Roel Castro, President and Chief Executive Officer of MORE Power, envisioned the introduction of electric buses as a means to support the city’s sustainability goals and address the need for more eco-friendly transport alternatives.
Manufactured by GET Philippines, the electric bus leaves no pollution while plying, and contributes to cleaner air, quieter streets and an overall enhancement of urban living conditions.
The project presents a golden opportunity to foster innovation and accelerate the adoption of sustainable transportation solutions throughout the city.
Furthermore, the forward-looking electric bus has been designed with inclusivity, featuring amenities such as ramps and designated seats to ensure accessibility and comfort for all passengers, including persons with disabilities.
MORE Power expects the arrival of two more electric bus units in October, and seven additional units scheduled by year-end. Each e-bus represents an investment of approximately P4 million to P4.5 million.
This initiative not only showcases MORE Power’s commitment to supplying electricity for Iloilo City, but also underscores their dedication to fostering a cleaner, greener and more sustainable future for the city.
That exemplifies their role as a responsible corporate citizen invested in the city’s progress and well-being.
This partnership with SM City Iloilo aligns perfectly with the vision, marking a harmonious collaboration to benefit Iloilo City.
Meanwhile, Treñas lauded the partnership between SM City and MORE Power as a groundbreaking project that holds significant promise for the city’s future.
He said electric buses are a vital step forward in reducing the carbon footprint, enhancing air quality and mitigating noise pollution, enhancing comfort and efficiency, and contributing to reduced reliance on fossil fuels.
Treñas expressed his anticipation of seeing more electric buses on the city’s streets in the years to come, fostering a cleaner, healthier and more livable environment for everyone.
His enthusiastic support, the inaugural e-bus ride, attended by Parcon, Domingo and other dignitaries, heralded the beginning of a transformative era.
Domingo reinforced the significance of this undertaking, highlighting SM City Iloilo’s commitment to sustainability and its partnership with Iloilo City in the pursuit of an improved quality of life for its residents.
He said the SM Electric Bus initiative would improve transportation in the city by reducing pollution, congestion and overall enhancing the community’s well-being.
To kick-off this eco-friendly initiative, there will be a week of complimentary rides, available until Saturday, September 23.
The membership shuttle service offers an initial route from the city hall to the Ceres North Bound Terminal, making stops at various SM locations from Monday to Saturday.
To enjoy a free ride, commuters simply need to head to designated pick-up points. To continue availing the free ride, passengers can download the GETPASS app on their phones from September 25 to 30, create an account, join the organization “SM ILOILO Electric Bus,” acquire Membership Tokens (available after the free ride period ends on October 1), and generate a QR code for scanning when boarding and disembarking the bus.
SM Supermalls initiated the SM Electric Shuttle Mini Bus in Manila, connecting six SM malls from SM Megamall in Ortigas to SM City Fairview in 2022.
Additionally, CDO introduced its SM Electric Mini Bus, connecting SM CDO uptown and downtown a few months ago./WDJ