The Philippines and Japan have teamed up to help each other in their energy transition bid as part of their commitment towards the use of clean energy and to ensure energy resilience.
The Department of Energy (DOE), in a news release on Tuesday, said Energy Secretary Sharon Garin and Japanese Trade Minister Muto Yoji signed a memorandum of cooperation (MoC) on the sidelines of the 3rd Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) Ministerial Meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on Oct. 17.
It said the partnership is “grounded in shared values and a commitment to ambitious climate action” and is aligned with the AZEC principles, which underscores “the need for diverse energy options and tailored transition pathways for each country.”
It explained that “AZEC, a regional initiative promoting cooperation towards achieving net-zero emissions in Asia, recognizes that diverse pathways are necessary to achieve carbon neutrality based on each country’s unique circumstances.”
“By diversifying energy sources and embracing innovative technologies, the Philippines and Japan seek to enhance energy resilience and security, support low-carbon development, and contribute to climate change mitigation efforts under the Paris Agreement,” it said.
Part of the MoC is the “encouraging of exchange of technological expertise and best practices from Japan to the Philippines, encouraging clean-energy investment and support skills development in emerging energy industries, driving economic transformation, and enhancing competitiveness in both nations.”
“Ultimately, this partnership not only addresses critical energy and environmental challenges but also deepens bilateral relations, fostering mutual trust and cooperation,” the DOE said.
Garin called the partnership “a long-term investment in a sustainable future.”
“It reflects our unwavering commitment to addressing climate change and building a resilient energy sector that will power our economies for decades to come. This is not just about reducing emissions; it’s about creating jobs, fostering innovation, and improving the quality of life for our citizens. A sustainable energy sector is a foundation for a thriving economy and a healthy society,” she said. (PNA)