DBM to bankroll P2.2-B energy programs

By Chino S. Leyco – September 13, 2022, 3:31 PM
from Manila Bulletin

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) on Tuesday, Sept. 12, said it will help bankroll various programs of the Department of Energy (DOE) next year.

In a statement, Budget Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman said the DBM earmarked P2.2 billion for the DOE in 2023 in line with the government’s bid to ensure affordable and clean energy supply in the country.

Pangandaman said the funding will support the government’s energy programs, such as Total Electrification Project, Renewable Energy Development Program, Energy Efficiency and Conservation Program and Alternative Fuels and Technologies Program.

Under the 2023 National Expenditure Program (NEP), P500 million was allocated to help DOE fulfill its mandate of energizing around 10,000 households nationwide through the Total Electrification Project (TEP).

The project aims to address the need for reliable power supply for remaining undeserved and unserved Filipino households with no access to electricity.

“This is good news, especially for far-flung areas where electricity is scarce. The Total Electrification Project of the DOE shall help improve and modernize industries in different provinces across the country, which will lead to the expansion of our economy,” Pangandaman said.

Meanwhile, P476 million shall be allocated to fund DOE’s Renewable Energy Development Program, Energy Efficiency and Conservation Program, and Alternative Fuels and Technologies Program.

“These initiatives are part of the administration’s commitment to provide reasonably priced, sustainable, and sufficient electricity,” the budget chief added.

Consistent with President Marcos’ directive to ensure the availability of reliable energy in various regions of the country, the DOE has been preparing for the implementation of viable electrification programs that will address the pressing issues faced by the energy sector.