ERC pushes inclusive energy reforms at 2025 forum

The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) underscored its commitment to inclusive and future-ready energy policies during the Energy Smart Forum 2025 hosted by the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) on August 28.

ERC Executive Director Atty. Nancy Aurora Q. Fajardo, speaking on behalf of the Commission, delivered a keynote presentation titled “Policies and Regulations that will Define our Energy Future.”

She emphasized the agency’s ongoing initiatives to modernize regulations, speed up renewable energy adoption, and enhance consumer protections.

“The energy revolution is already underway. But the path we choose today will determine whether it uplifts only a few, or empowers every Filipino household and community,” Fajardo said, highlighting the need for equitable and forward-looking policies.

The forum convened government officials, private sector leaders, and development partners to explore ways to build a more secure, sustainable, and consumer-centric energy sector in the Philippines.

A multi-sectoral panel discussion followed, featuring experts from both public institutions and private firms.

Panelists included Dr. Marco Gemmer, Head of Cooperation of the Delegation of the European Union to the Philippines; Shreetama Choudhary, Senior Investment Officer at the International Finance Corporation; Carlos Aboitiz, Chief Corporate Services Officer at AboitizPower; and Department of Energy (DOE) Undersecretary Mylene C. Capongcol.

The session was moderated by Quintin Pastrana, President of WEnergy Power Pilipinas and Archipelago Renewables, and Head of Business Development at WEnergy Global.

The panel addressed policy frameworks, infrastructure requirements, and market mechanisms necessary to meet the Philippines’ renewable energy goals by 2030.

Panelists emphasized that stronger coordination among government agencies, private stakeholders, and global partners is vital to unlocking investment and creating a resilient energy system.

By taking part in the Energy Smart Forum 2025, the ERC reaffirmed its pledge to collaborate with stakeholders in steering the country’s clean energy transition.