Toyota trains PH dismantler on EV battery recycling, builds groundwork for safer end-of-life vehicle system

As more electrified vehicles begin to enter Philippine roads, one challenge is quietly moving into focus: what happens to these vehicles—and their batteries—at the end of their life cycle.

Toyota Motor Philippines is taking steps to address that gap, training a local dismantling partner on proper handling and recycling of electrified vehicle (xEV) batteries—an area that will become increasingly critical as EV adoption grows.

The initiative centers on En Tsumugi ELV Dismantler Corporation, a Pampanga-based facility recognized by Toyota as one of the country’s model end-of-life vehicle (ELV) dismantlers. The company recently completed a specialized training program in Japan focused on the safe dismantling and recycling of xEV batteries.

Held from March 17 to 18, 2026 at Toyota Metal Co., Ltd. in Aichi, the training was led by Toyota Motor Corporation and brought together participants from the Philippines and Thailand. It is part of a broader regional push to prepare dismantling facilities for the next phase of mobility—where hybrid and electric vehicles become more common.

For everyday motorists, the issue may not be obvious yet. But as EVs grow in number, battery disposal and recycling will directly impact safety, environmental protection, and even future vehicle costs.

The training covered critical procedures such as safe battery removal, proper storage, emergency response, and recycling workflows, ensuring that dismantlers can handle high-voltage components without risk to workers or the environment. Participants were also introduced to how battery materials are processed, reused, or reintegrated into manufacturing—an essential part of building a circular economy.

The program forms part of Toyota’s global “100 Dismantlers Project,” which aims to establish a network of properly managed ELV facilities worldwide. The goal is to ensure that vehicles—from traditional combustion engines to modern electrified models—are responsibly dismantled, with valuable materials recovered and environmental impact minimized.

In the Philippines, En Tsumugi stands out as a key piece of that future ecosystem. Recognized in 2024, it became one of only two model ELV dismantling facilities in the country and the fourth Toyota-endorsed facility in ASEAN. It operates under the “Garaheco” brand and follows Japanese standards in dismantling, hazardous waste management, and resource recovery.

Another local player, Standard Insurance Co., Inc., also contributes to the ecosystem by handling ELVs within its insured portfolio, highlighting how both private and industry stakeholders are beginning to align around responsible disposal systems.

Toyota Motor Philippines President Masando Hashimoto said the move is part of a broader commitment to sustainability.

“This proactive step reflects our ‘Beyond Zero’ commitment to ensure that as we advance electrified mobility in the country through Toyota and Lexus xEVs, we are equally prepared across the entire vehicle lifecycle,” Hashimoto said.

“Building this capability reflects our commitment in preparing for the future of mobility for everyone. This ensures that as the industry evolves, the supporting ecosystem grows in a way that is sustainable, inclusive, and future-ready.”

The effort aligns with Toyota’s global environmental roadmap, particularly its push toward carbon neutrality and a recycling-based society under its long-term sustainability goals.

The timing is significant. Data from the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. shows that electrified vehicles are steadily gaining traction locally, reaching 11.2 percent market share and 36.2 percent year-on-year growth, with 11,800 units sold in the first quarter of 2026 alone. Toyota and Lexus accounted for 5,252 units, reflecting growing consumer interest in hybrid and electric options.

As this shift accelerates, the spotlight is no longer just on buying EVs—but on building the systems that support them long after they leave the road.

For the average Filipino driver, that means a future where owning an electrified vehicle is not only about fuel savings or lower emissions, but also about knowing that when the time comes, there is a safe, structured, and environmentally responsible way to retire it.