The Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) spearheaded a landmark energy forum at the UP Ayala Technohub on April 30, 2026, convening government leaders, regulators, and private sector representatives to deliberate on the country's energy future. The event underscored the urgency of diversifying the Philippines' energy mix, reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels, and accelerating investments in renewable and emerging technologies such as nuclear power.
ARTA's Role in Streamlining Permits
ARTA Secretary Ernesto V. Perez highlighted ARTA's unique mandate to interconnect government agencies and streamline permitting processes. He stated: "This energy forum intends not to duplicate but to support the ongoing initiatives of the government, especially in light of the energy emergency that the President has declared. So, we must act with urgency to get the support of everybody under the whole-of-nation approach."
DOE's Renewable Energy Programs
DOE Undersecretary Mylene C. Capongcol emphasized the need for strengthened public-private partnerships. She presented key DOE mechanisms: the Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS) requiring distribution utilities to source a minimum portion from renewables; the Green Energy Auction Program (GEAP) for competitive procurement; the Green Energy Option Program (GEOP) allowing end-users to contract renewable energy; and the Net Metering Program for solar panel owners. These aim to diversify the energy mix and reduce fossil fuel dependence.
Nuclear Energy as a Strategic Priority
Pangasinan Representative Mark O. Cojuangco underscored nuclear energy's urgency, noting that reliance on imported coal and LNG exposes the economy to shocks. He cited that nuclear power could save the Philippines approximately USD 380 million annually per 1,000 MW of capacity and reduce foreign exchange volatility. He urged expediting appointments at the Philippine Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (PhilAtom) to finalize rules under the Philippine National Nuclear Energy Safety Act.
DOE-EUMB Director Patrick T. Aquino presented the Philippine Nuclear Energy Plan targeting 1,200 MW by 2032, with strict safety standards. Ongoing site evaluations in Bataan, Pangasinan, Palawan, and Masbate were discussed, emphasizing the need for both technical and social licenses.
Private Sector and Regulatory Challenges
Mr. Ruy Y. Moreno of MAP noted that investors tolerate lengthy processes if predictable and transparent. He cited fragmented mandates and sequential approvals as major deterrents. ARTA's BRO Director Marbida L. Marbida presented ADB study findings on bottlenecks: overlapping processes, slow action, excessive requirements, and lack of transparency. ARTA is working to harmonize procedures, integrate eBOSS with EVOSS, and reform ECC processes.
BOI Director Ernesto C. Delos Reyes Jr. stressed harmonizing national and local permits, noting that LGUs often impose unjustified additional requirements. He called for stronger collaboration among agencies.
Call for Digitalization and Social License
Panelists agreed on the need for digital tools for real-time tracking, end-to-end processing, and evidence-based decisions. Securing social licenses from host communities, especially for nuclear projects, was highlighted to prevent misinformation and opposition.
The forum drew participation from DOE, BOI, Office of the Executive Secretary, DOST-PNRI, DILG, ERC, NGCP, NEA, NPC, MAP, and private firms including Aboitiz Power, First Gen, Meralco, and Huawei Philippines. ARTA officials Undersecretary Lea Grace B. Salcedo and Undersecretary Juabilly P. Racho also attended.
The forum concluded with a unified call to streamline permitting, strengthen inter-agency coordination, and embrace digitalization to accelerate the Philippines' transition to a secure, sustainable energy future. ARTA reaffirmed its commitment to reforms for transparency, accountability, and resilience in Bagong Pilipinas.
