Is the PNP-HPG chief unaware of DOE certified hybrid, EV list?

PNP-HPG says hybrids need to secure DOE certification to be exempted from number coding

It's no secret that a green plate is what everyone wants on their vehicle. That signifies it is an officially recognized hybrid or EV, and is exempt from number coding based on the EVIDA Law until about 2028.

There is a bit of a problem though, as it appears the HPG may not have gotten the memo.

The PNP Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) is planning to inspect hybrid vehicles and EVs plying Metro Manila. This comes after HPG Director Col. Hansel Marantan said motorists who were issued green plates by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) for hybrid cars need to secure a certification from the Department of Energy (DOE).

“We will inspect motor vehicles sporting green plates because these must have certification from the DOE before being exempted from the number coding scheme,” said Marantan.

It is possible the office of the HPG Chief may not have been furnished a copy of the DOE's list of recognized hybrids (including plug-in hybrids) and EVs. After the passing of the EVIDA Law, any vehicle that is recognized as a hybrid (HEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV), or EV by the DOE is automatically issued green plates by the LTO. In fact, you can access the DOE website and check out what vehicles are recognized by the DOE as HEVs, PHEVs, and EVs.

It is possible also that the newly-installed HPG Chief just wants to add an extra layer of scrutiny on the use of green plates. There have been images of vehicles plying the roads with faux hybrid badges to try and pass itself off as coding exempt. Many laws and rules are prone to abuse, so perhaps the HPG Chief wants to ensure that the EVs or hybrids on the road are compliant with regulations. 

The HPG has yet to announce when they plan to hold roadside inspections in Metro Manila. Marantan did say the HPG is regularly coordinating with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) in addressing traffic congestion along EDSA.

Should the HPG push through with its plan to inspect hybrids and EVs plying along EDSA or Metro Manila, the roadside inspection could also contribute to traffic congestion. For green plate car owners, it will be a good idea to have a copy of the DOE list (from the link above) and print out the page where it includes your vehicle.