The Department of Energy (DOE) expressed optimism that the Philippines stands to benefit from strengthened regional collaboration in the energy sector, as the country actively participates in the ongoing ASEAN Ministers on Energy Meeting (AMEM) in Malaysia.
Energy Secretary Sharon Garin, representing the country at the high-level event running until Friday, underscored the importance of shared best practices and joint initiatives in smart grids, cross-border electricity trade, and modern energy infrastructure.
“We’re fully committed to working closely with our ASEAN neighbors to tackle energy challenges and unlock new opportunities,” Garin said in a statement. “This meeting is a key moment for all of us to move toward a sustainable and secure energy future.”
The DOE noted that the Philippines is also preparing to chair the ASEAN Energy Meetings in 2026, with bilateral engagements already underway to lay the groundwork.
Energy Undersecretary Felix William Fuentebella is leading senior-level discussions to finalize key regional accords. These include the updated ASEAN Power Grid Memorandum of Understanding, the revised ASEAN Petroleum Security Agreement, a long-term renewable energy roadmap, and a regional renewable energy certification framework. Talks also cover potential nuclear cooperation and new mechanisms to attract energy investments and improve efficiency monitoring.
“We share one goal as ASEAN: a future where energy is clean, secure, and drives economic growth,” Fuentebella said. “By working together, we can turn this vision into concrete, lasting progress.”
Separately, the DOE is conducting a whole-of-government writeshop to refine national strategies on nuclear energy, aligning planned initiatives with international standards and domestic energy goals.
The agency said the activity aims to ensure a “coherent, sustainable, and risk-informed” approach to nuclear development, with clear implementation plans, performance indicators, and budget estimates.
Under the Philippine Energy Plan 2023–2050, the government targets to build up to 4,800 MW of nuclear capacity by mid-century, starting with 1,200 MW by 2032.
