Sailing Into the Future: Manila Launches First Electric Ferry

photo courtesy of MARINA 

Manila’s waterways are about to get a fresh, eco-friendly upgrade. On Monday, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the University of the Philippines Diliman unveiled M/B Dalaray, the country’s first locally developed electric passenger ferry, at Plaza Mexico in Intramuros.

Powered by a combination of battery and solar energy, the sleek e-ferry promises a cleaner, quieter ride along the Pasig River, connecting Manila to Makati, Mandaluyong, Pasig, and Taguig. Operations are set to begin in November, offering commuters a sustainable alternative to the city’s gridlocked roads.

The launch was more than just a showcase of technology—it was a statement of intent. DOST Secretary Renato Solidum highlighted the ferry as part of a broader push to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and cut carbon emissions. “We have prototypes for electric tricycles, e-jeepneys, and buses. Now, we’re bringing electric boats to the Pasig River,” he said, stressing the urgency of addressing climate change before its effects become irreversible.

For city dwellers, the promise is twofold: a smoother commute and a cleaner river. The project aims to ease traffic congestion while protecting waterways, positioning the e-ferry as both a transport solution and an environmental safeguard.

As the country’s first homegrown electric ferry prepares to set sail, M/B Dalaray carries more than passengers—it carries the hope of a greener, more livable Metro Manila.