The Department of Energy (DOE) and the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) have entered into a Data-Sharing Agreement, in a pivotal effort to promote transparency and evidence-based policymaking in the energy sector. The accord was signed in the DOE headquarters in Taguig City and is expected to improve policy formulation, regulatory oversight, and public service delivery by enabling access to critical energy data.

Energy Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla and ERC Chairperson and CEO Atty. Monalisa C. Dimalanta led the signing of the agreement, which institutionalizes a structured and secure mechanism for the exchange of energy-related data between the two agencies.

“This data-sharing agreement would enable better data exchange to address the complex and evolving challenges in the energy sector,” said Secretary Lotilla. “Through this partnership, we are laying the foundation for a more responsive, efficient, and inclusive energy sector—one that is grounded in evidence, guided by transparency, and committed to delivering affordable, sustainable, and reliable energy for all Filipinos.”

The initiative covers a wide range of segments within the energy sector. These range from power generation, grid integration, transmission development, distribution systems, market operations, off-grid electrification, and the implementation of the ER 1-94 program benefit-sharing mechanisms.

Designated personnel from each agency will handle the collaborated effort to transfer the data in an efficient manner. The agreement also mandates strict data security protocols to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and proper utilization of the shared information throughout its lifecycle.

ERC Chairperson Dimalanta emphasized the regulatory benefits of the partnership. “Data is at the core of responsive regulation,” she said. “This Agreement allows the ERC to better assess system performance, anticipate emerging issues, and design regulatory interventions that truly reflect conditions on the ground.”

She also pointed out that the agreement streamlines administrative processes and reduces the burden on stakeholders by minimizing duplicative reporting requirements across agencies. “More importantly, this institutionalizes a culture of openness and cooperation that is essential to achieving our shared goal of delivering reliable and affordable electricity to all Filipinos,” she added.

All data transmissions are promised with clear operational protocols and will highlight the government’s continued commitment to transparency and accountability. With this partnership, the DOE and ERC aim to set a precedent for inter-agency collaboration that can drive sectoral reforms and sustainable development through data-driven decision-making.

Do you agree with this step toward more government transparency and accountability? What should be the first collaborated project between the two?

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