The Department of Energy (DOE) has opened public consultations on a draft policy that would set the framework for exploring and developing multiple energy resources within a single area — a move seen to streamline project coordination and maximize the country’s diverse energy potential.

In a forum held on October 30 at the F1 Hotel in Bonifacio Global City, the DOE gathered representatives from government, industry, and partner agencies to discuss the proposed Department Circular establishing a policy framework for the exploration, development, and utilization of multiple energy resources.

The draft policy outlines an integrated approach to developing different energy resources—such as renewable, fossil, and other indigenous forms—within the same location. It seeks to promote efficiency, minimize overlaps, and strengthen coordination across DOE bureaus.

Under the proposal, a Multiple Energy Resources Committee (MERC) will be created to harmonize project planning and implementation, uphold prior rights among contract holders, and ensure that developments comply with technical, environmental, and regulatory standards. The MERC will also oversee transparent evaluation processes to enhance the integrity of project assessments and speed up decision-making.

DOE Undersecretary Felix William B. Fuentebella highlighted the importance of stakeholder engagement in shaping policies that are both practical and future-ready.

“Collaboration ensures that our policies are grounded, inclusive, and forward-looking,” Fuentebella said. “The insights shared will help the DOE strike a balance between development, sustainability, and the responsible use of our resources.”

DOE officials, including Energy Resource Development Bureau Director Nenito C. Jariel, Jr., Renewable Energy Management Bureau Director Marissa P. Cerezo, and Legal Services OIC-Director Rowena Joyce Delos Santos, led discussions and responded to questions from participants during the open forum.

Stakeholders provided feedback on implementation timelines and strategies for harmonizing development activities across multiple resource types. The DOE said all inputs would be reviewed and considered before finalizing the circular.

The initiative supports the goals of the Philippine Energy Plan 2023–2050, which aims to ensure energy resiliency, security, and sustainability through a diversified and coordinated energy mix.

The DOE is accepting written comments on the draft circular until November 20, 2025, via email at [email protected] or through the online submission link at https://bit.ly/CommentsOnDraftDC-PolicyEDU.

How do you see this policy shaping future energy projects in the Philippines? Share your thoughts on whether a unified framework can truly accelerate multi-resource development while balancing sustainability goals.  

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