President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reaffirmed the Philippines’ push for renewable energy expansion and nuclear safety as he highlighted policy reforms and major foreign-backed investments during the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW).

In his keynote address at the ADSW dialogue “Next Leap: Global South Infrastructure,” Marcos cited measures aimed at accelerating renewable energy development. These include fiscal incentives, streamlined regulations, and financing tools such as Green Bonds and the Renewable Energy Trust Fund.

The President also pointed to the signing of the Philippine National Nuclear Energy Safety Act, which establishes the country’s first comprehensive framework governing the safe and peaceful use of nuclear technology. “This provides a stable and predictable environment for scientists and industries to innovate safely and responsibly,” Marcos said, adding that it signals the country’s readiness to deepen science-driven cooperation with global partners.

Marcos said the Philippines has been taking a more active role in science-based energy and sustainability initiatives, including hosting the first International Atomic Energy Agency High-Level Forum on Nuclear Technology for Controlling Plastic Pollution. The forum focused on advancing innovation and public-private partnerships for sustainable technologies.

He also recalled the country’s participation in the International Renewable Energy Agency Assembly in January 2025, where the administration reaffirmed its commitment to clean energy and sustainable technology development.

On investment commitments, Marcos said the Philippines and the United Arab Emirates strengthened their energy partnership during last year’s ADSW through agreements with Masdar. This includes plans to develop up to 10 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity in the Philippines, backed by USD 15 billion in investments. The projects are expected to diversify the country’s energy mix and strengthen energy security.

Looking ahead, Marcos said technology and sustainability will be central to the Philippines’ upcoming chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) under the theme “Navigating Our Future, Together.” 

“We will promote a people-centered and future-ready ASEAN, with strengthened cooperation on climate resilience, digital transformation, and the responsible use of emerging technologies,” he stated.

How could large-scale renewable investments and clearer nuclear safety rules reshape the Philippines’ long-term energy security and power mix?

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Photo Credit: PCO Website