Apayao:A 66-year-old resident, Freddie Peralta, has transformed his family's idle motorcycle into a vital source of income, thanks to a groundbreaking project funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).

According to Philippines News Agency, the initiative involves converting conventional motorcycles into electric vehicles, a change that Peralta embraced at no personal cost. This transformation was offered to him as part of a pilot program initiated in July, which aims to rejuvenate unserviceable motorcycles.

Peralta's motorcycle, previously unused due to costly repair requirements, was converted to an electric vehicle, allowing him to return to work as a tricycle driver. He highlights significant savings on fuel costs, estimating an additional PHP250 to PHP300 on his monthly electricity bill compared to his previous daily fuel expenses. Peralta's daily earnings of PHP400 to PHP600 now stretch further, bolstered by the provision of a spare battery for the vehicle.

The conversion technology was developed through a DOST-funded research project at Cagayan State College. DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. noted during a visit to Apayao that while the conversion currently costs about PHP120,000, prices may decrease with increased demand and commercialization. The project intends to provide practical technology solutions for everyday challenges faced by ordinary people.

Luna Mayor Januario Garde praised the program's reception among local residents and tricycle drivers, acknowledging the potential for reduced transportation costs and environmental benefits such as quieter roads and lower pollution levels. He affirmed the municipality's openness to initiatives that improve residents' quality of life, particularly those that offer significant savings on fuel.