The Department of Energy (DOE) of the Philippines and Indonesia’s Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (MEMR) have convened the first Joint Energy Working Group Meeting, marking a milestone in bilateral energy cooperation between the two countries.

The inaugural meeting, held on September 17 in Jakarta, follows the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed in January 2024 during the state visit of then Indonesian President Joko Widodo to Manila. The agreement aims to deepen collaboration in energy security, sustainability, and innovation.

Undersecretary Alessandro O. Sales led the Philippine delegation, while Secretary General Dadan O. Kusdiana represented the Indonesian side. The working group is tasked with exploring cooperation across key areas such as upstream and downstream oil and gas, renewable energy, energy efficiency, power generation, alternative fuels, electric vehicles, human resource development, critical minerals, and energy transition strategies.

Sales highlighted the long-standing ties between the two countries, recalling Indonesia’s support during the early years of the Philippine National Oil Company. “This enduring partnership serves as a solid foundation for ongoing energy cooperation,” he said.

During the meeting, both sides exchanged insights on aligning policies, capacity-building programs, and sharing best practices in regulatory frameworks. Discussions also covered market assessments, resource potential, and possible trade and investment opportunities.

The working teams will identify and finalize priority projects during the MOU’s initial three-year term, with the goal of delivering measurable outcomes. The next Joint Energy Working Group Meeting is scheduled to be hosted in Manila in 2026.

What do you think are the most promising areas for Philippines-Indonesia energy collaboration—LNG, renewables, or critical minerals? Join the discussion.

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