Raphael Lotilla, Secretary of the Department of Energy (DOE), stated that the agency will be focusing on expanding and harnessing local energy sources as part of its long-term strategy to ensure energy security.
Lotilla stated that the country is still dependent on imports of energy, especially coal and oil, in a virtual press conference.
He stated that the Philippines’ primary energy source in 2021 would be 56.8% from imported and 43.2% from domestic sources. Geothermal, natural gas and hydro are all indigenous sources.
The importable energy supply includes coal at 37.1%. Indonesia supplies 98%. Petroleum accounts for 34.6% of total energy supplies.ย It is also responsible for 89% of the power sources in areas off-grid.
Lotilla stated that this makes the country “energy-insecure” due to the rise in fuel prices and uncertainty in coal supply. Exporting countries have the option of imposing a ban on coal exports.
He said that the DOE will be able to explore and harness indigenous energy sources to help it achieve its energy goals, as set out by President Ferdinand “Bongbong”, Marcos Jr.
The DOE’s goals are to ensure energy security, access to affordable energy, and a transition to a low-carbon, sustainable future.
Lotilla stated that the longer-term solution is to get away from -again, President says– dependence on imported sources and instead seek out more indigenous sources.
He stated that the government doesn’t have to go as far as the West Philippine Sea in order to find energy sources from indigenous peoples, but it can focus its efforts on areas where there is no dispute.
He said, “We are also considering areas that are clearly undisputed” and the area near Malampaya.
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