CEBU-BASED Top Line Business Development Corp. has tapped a second electric vehicle (EV) charging partner as it seeks to broaden revenue streams from its growing fuel-station network.
In a statement on Wednesday, the listed fuel retailer said it signed a memorandum of understanding with Japan-based Jigowatts, Inc. for the initial deployment of EV charging stations at select locations by the first half of 2027.
The initiative will be carried out through Top Line subsidiary Light Fuels Corp. and affiliates Vikingland Corp. and Pier Eighty-Eight Ventures, Inc.
The charging stations are planned for select Light Fuels service stations and affiliate properties, including the Pier88 smart port and Bay Mall in Liloan, Cebu.
Specific locations are still subject to further evaluation, Top Line said.
“By integrating EV charging capabilities into Topline Group’s growing network, we are not only future-proofing Light Fuels’ retail platform but also creating opportunities to broaden our revenue streams,” Top Line Chief Operating Officer Brigitte Carmel Lapasaran C. Lim said.
“This supports our long-term strategy of building more versatile service stations that can serve both conventional and electric vehicles across the Visayas,” she added.
Top Line currently operates 23 branded Light Fuels service stations across the Visayas, while 27 additional stations are set for rebranding.
The Jigowatts agreement builds on Top Line’s earlier partnership with V-Green Charging Stations Philippines, Inc. for the deployment of EV charging stations and battery-swapping facilities for VinFast electric scooters in Metro Cebu and northern Cebu.
Top Line said the latest partnership forms part of its broader strategy to prepare its portfolio for the continued growth of electric mobility and changing transportation trends.
“As electric mobility continues to develop, accessible charging infrastructure will play an important role in supporting more motorists who choose electric vehicles,” Top Line President, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer Eugene Erik C. Lim said.
Jigowatts is a Japanese technology company that develops and manufactures EV and plug-in hybrid vehicle chargers, smart locks, and energy management solutions.
“Through our collaboration with Topline Group, we look forward to bringing our electric vehicle charging expertise and solutions to the Philippines, while exploring practical charging options that can complement its existing services and help prepare its stations for the future of mobility,” Jigowatts Chief Executive Officer Tomoki Shibata said.
Top Line shares closed unchanged at P1.75 apiece on Wednesday. — Sheldeen Joy Talavera
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