DOE to Roll Out Vehicle Fuel Economy Labeling Program in Q1 2025

The Department of Energy (DOE) is set to launch the Vehicle Fuel Economy Labeling Program (VFELP) in the first quarter of 2025, aiming to provide Filipino consumers with key information about vehicle fuel efficiency.

What is VFELP?

Under VFELP, all manufacturers, importers, distributors, dealers, and rebuilders of public and private road vehicles must obtain:

• Fuel Economy Label (FEL): A removable label displaying essential fuel performance data.
• Fuel Economy Sticker (FES): A fixed sticker with a QR code linking to detailed vehicle information, including the Fuel Economy Performance Rating (FEPR).

The program is mandated by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act (Republic Act 11285) and aims to:

• Empower consumers to make informed vehicle purchases.
• Promote fuel efficiency to save money and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Why It Matters

DOE-Energy Utilization Management Bureau Director Patrick Aquino emphasized the program’s impact:

“Knowing your vehicle’s fuel efficiency is not just about saving money; it’s about building a sustainable future. Every drop of fuel or kilowatt saved and every gram of greenhouse gas emission reduced will make a real difference in the fight against climate change.”

How It Works

To ensure compliance, the DOE has established a streamlined VFELP system for:

1. Company Registration:
   • Valid for three years for manufacturers, importers, distributors, rebuilders, and dealers.
   • Includes head offices and all branches.
2. Vehicle Registration:
   • Covers each model or type of vehicle offered.
   • Valid for six years.

Processing Time:

• Company and vehicle registrations: Seven working days.
• FEL/FES issuance: Three working days (if submissions are complete).

Accessibility for Consumers

The FEL and FES include the DOE logo and:

• Provide fuel economy performance data at the point of sale.
• Allow access to more comprehensive vehicle information online via the QR code.

Collaborative Effort

The program is implemented with the support of:

• Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
• Department of Transportation (DOTr).

The dual-labeling system ensures consumers have readily accessible and verified information to guide their vehicle choices.

Looking Ahead

The VFELP is part of the government’s broader push for sustainable energy use and environmental conservation. It aligns with ongoing efforts to reduce emissions and achieve long-term energy efficiency goals.