Aboitiz Power Corp. and Japanese energy giant JERA Co. Inc. have officially launched the Global Technical Center of Excellence (GTCOE), a state-of-the-art energy sector training facility located in the LIMA Estate, Batangas.
The facility aims to enhance technical talent development in the Philippines’ energy sector and support broader industry needs in power generation. Initially, the GTCOE will provide operations and maintenance (O&M) training at AboitizPower’s GNPower Mariveles and GNPower Dinginin plants.
The first batch of trainees, composed of six AboitizPower and 12 JERA engineers, will begin next week. The facility integrates advanced technologies such as simulation tools, AI, 3D printing, and drones to offer comprehensive training in technical expertise, leadership, and adaptability.
AboitizPower Thermal Group’s Chief Engineering and Projects Officer Don Paulino said the investment runs into “millions of pesos” and that the companies aim to fund qualified trainees. The program is also being aligned with government-recognized Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements.
The training center stems from a deepening partnership between the two firms, which began in December 2021 when JERA acquired a 27 percent stake in AboitizPower. Their collaboration expanded in July 2023 with a talent exchange program focused on technical skills development.
Beyond technical training, the GTCOE plans to partner with universities, industry associations, government agencies, and global organizations to broaden its impact.
AboitizPower, one of the Philippines’ largest power producers, has earmarked ₱78.1 billion in capex for 2025 and is targeting 9,200 MW of capacity by 2030, including 4,600 MW in renewable energy. JERA, Japan’s largest power generator, is also working with AboitizPower on fuel ammonia substitution and hydrogen supply chain development in the country.
