The Department of Energy (DOE) is confident the power sector will gain as the country leads regional energy discussions under its ASEAN chairmanship. The Philippines will host the ASEAN Special Senior Officials Meeting on Energy (SOME) and related meetings in Bohol from January 20 to 22, 2026.
Energy officials from ASEAN member states will discuss new initiatives, review ongoing programs, and coordinate regional energy cooperation. The meetings will also prepare for the initial rollout of the ASEAN Plan of Action for Energy Cooperation (APAEC) 2026–2030, which sets the bloc’s five-year priorities in areas like renewable energy, power grid integration, nuclear energy, oil and gas, energy efficiency, and sustainability.
DOE Undersecretary Felix William Fuentebella said the discussions aim to turn shared commitments into concrete actions that promote energy security, innovation, inclusive growth, and resilience across ASEAN. Officials are also expected to approve the Philippines’ energy priorities for its chairmanship and strengthen collaboration with ASEAN dialogue partners to boost regional energy resilience.
Fuentebella added that the meetings focus on technical coordination to ensure smoother implementation of regional programs and tangible benefits for households, businesses, and the wider ASEAN community.
