The Philippines and the United States are finalizing the guiding document for regular and structured engagement in the energy sector, focusing on the deployment of renewable energy, carbon emission reduction and nuclear energy.
The Department of Energy said over the weekend the two countries convened the 2nd United States-Philippines Energy Policy Dialogue (EPD) on Dec. 6, 2024 in Manila, reinforcing their shared commitment to advancing energy security, expanding access and accelerating the clean energy transition.
Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla welcomed the delegates from both countries during the event, while U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson delivered the opening remarks.
The DOE said a significant outcome of the dialog was the finalization of the guiding document, which establishes a framework for regular and structured engagement in the energy sector.
The document is designed to facilitate meaningful collaboration and ensure the effective development and implementation of joint programs.
It said that at the core of these discussions is a shared focus on advancing the deployment of renewable energy technologies to reduce carbon emissions, modernizing and expanding energy transmission infrastructure to meet growing demand, and exploring nuclear energy as a potential option for electricity generation.
Both nations also emphasized the importance of reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels to strengthen energy security and resilience.
The dialog also underscored the critical need for access to financing, innovative technologies, and resilient infrastructure to support a just energy transition.
The DOE said these initiatives are essential to ensuring that the shift to cleaner energy is equitable, affordable, and inclusive, promoting sustainable and inclusive economic growth without imposing undue burdens on consumers.
“By prioritizing these objectives, the Philippines and the United States aim to address the dual challenges of fostering sustainable development and mitigating climate change, while paving the way for a cleaner, more resilient, and equitable energy future,” it said.