DOE Partners With Iloilo And Bacolod: MOAs Signed to Promote Solar Energy and Energy Efficiency in Public Buildings

The Department of Energy (DOE) formalized partnerships with the Provincial Government of Iloilo and the City Government of Bacolod through the signing of separate Memoranda of Agreement (MOAs) under the Solar Solutions for Government: Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy in Public Buildings (SSG–ERPB) initiative. The agreements aim to strengthen public-sector energy efficiency, enhance grid resiliency, and promote sustainable government infrastructure.

The MOA signing, led by Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin at the DOE Office in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, signifies Iloilo Province and Bacolod City’s commitment to implement solar photovoltaic (PV) systems alongside energy efficiency (EE) measures in public buildings. The initiative aligns with the Government Energy Management Program (GEMP), targeting at least 10% energy savings in government operations.

“More than a technical undertaking, energy efficiency and clean energy adoption in public buildings is good governance,” Secretary Garin said. “Through these agreements, we are demonstrating practical, measurable pathways for government facilities to cut electricity use, strengthen resiliency, and model responsible energy use for communities and the private sector alike.”

Governor Arthur R. Defensor, Jr. signed on behalf of the Province of Iloilo, while Mayor Greg G. Gasataya signed for Bacolod City. Under the partnerships, the DOE will provide technical assistance in deploying solar PV systems and energy-efficient equipment tailored to local operational needs. Capacity-building programs, including orientation and training for local officials and technical staff, will support planning, implementation, and monitoring.

The Province of Iloilo has a proven track record in clean energy governance. Since passing its Renewable Energy Ordinance (I-PORE) in 2022, the province has institutionalized compliance with GEMP, encouraged barangays and municipalities to identify potential renewable energy sites, and offered incentives under the provincial investment code. Initiatives include solar PV installations in six district hospitals, solar streetlights across barangays, and a solar-powered desalination project. In December 2025, Iloilo was recognized as the pioneer awardee of the DOE’s Sustainable Energy Awards in the LGU category.

Bacolod City, through the MOA, will collaborate with the DOE to identify priority public buildings for solar PV integration and EE upgrades, supported by technical guidance and training.

The DOE emphasized that the SSG–ERPB program is designed to build a pipeline of public-sector projects that demonstrate measurable energy savings, improve facility resiliency, and encourage wider adoption of renewable energy and energy efficiency practices across government.

To date, ten LGUs—including Manila, Quezon City, Pasay, Pasig, Mandaluyong, Navotas, San Juan, Taguig, Valenzuela, and the Province of Siquijor—have signed MOAs under the program. Additionally, the DOE has partnered with the Department of Health to advance energy efficiency and sustainability in government hospitals.

“Local governments are critical champions of the clean energy transition because they are closest to communities and public services,” Secretary Garin added. “When LGUs lead, through policy, investment, and implementation, clean energy becomes real, visible, and beneficial to ordinary Filipinos.”