Top Line Partners with Japanese Firm for EV Charging Infrastructure Rollout

MANILA, Philippines —Top Line Business Development Corp. is stepping up its push to penetrate the electric vehicle (EV) market through a planned rollout of charging infrastructure with Japan’s Jigowatts Inc. The listed fuel retailer and distributor of Cebu’s Lim family recently inked a memorandum of understanding with the Japanese firm for this initiative, with initial deployment targeted in the first half of 2027. The strategic partnership, signed through Top Line units Light Fuels Corp., Vikingland Corp. and Pier Eighty-Eight Ventures Inc., is expected to complement the group’s existing mobility services, including its smart port Pier 88 and Bay Mall in Liloan, Cebu. Specific locations for the EV charging hubs are still being evaluated. The planned charging network will enable Top Line to serve not only gas-powered cars but also EVs, positioning the group to capture opportunities in the country’s shift toward greener mobility. “As electric mobility continues to develop, accessible charging infrastructure will play an important role in supporting more motorists who choose electric vehicles,” Top Line chairman, president and CEO Eugene Erik Lim said. As an EV charging solutions provider, Jigowatts will leverage its expertise to support Top Line in deploying the charging network. Jigowatts CEO Tomoki Shibata said the company plans to explore practical solutions to help Top Line prepare its stations for the evolving mobility landscape. At present, Top Line has 23 operational branded Light Fuels service stations across the Visayas, with 27 additional sites set for rebranding. The oil firm also offers fully automated motor wash systems that can clean motorcycles in about three minutes. “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 senior vice president and COO Brigitte Carmel Lim said.