The United States and the Philippines held their second annual Energy Policy Dialogue (EPD) on December 6 in Manila, reaffirming their commitment to enhancing energy security, expanding access to energy, and accelerating the transition to clean energy.
The dialogue was hosted by Philippine Department of Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla and Undersecretary Felix William Fuentebella. The U.S. delegation was led by Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Diplomacy Kimberly Harrington, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Ann Ganzer, and U.S. Ambassador MaryKay Carlson. They were accompanied by representatives from key U.S. agencies, including the Department of Energy, USAID, the Millennium Challenge Corporation, and the U.S. Trade and Development Agency.
Both nations emphasized the significance of ensuring affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy, highlighting the vital role of the private sector in achieving shared economic and environmental goals.
The dialogue also addressed key areas of collaboration, including:
- Renewable energy development and deployment.
- Modernization and planning of power grids.
- Sustainable management and utilization of critical minerals.
- Deployment of nuclear energy in the Philippines, building on the entry into force of the bilateral “123 Agreement” for peaceful nuclear cooperation in July 2024.
Amid rising energy demand and the urgency of climate action, the two sides discussed strategies to enhance energy security, diversify energy sources, and support decarbonization commitments. These efforts align with the broader objectives of fostering sustainable economic growth and deepening the long-term bilateral relationship between the Philippines and the United States.
The delegations concluded the dialogue by reaffirming their intent to continue joint initiatives, advancing shared energy security and clean energy transition goals. This partnership underscores the critical role of international collaboration in addressing global energy challenges.