The Stratbase ADR Institute in partnership with CitizenWatch Philippines held a round table discussion on “Energizing Economic Growth: The Role of Energy in the Philippine Economy” at the F1 Hotel Manila, Bonifacio Global City.

Department of Energy (DOE) Undersecretary Felix William Fuentebella presented the current power supply situation and the DOE’s outlook in anticipation of growing energy demand in the context of the governments ambitious development agenda.

Mr. Jose Alejandro of the Energy Committee of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) discussed the need for reliable and affordable power that would expand industries and encourage investments that would translate to more jobs and growth.

Dr. Raul Fabella presented the highlights of their paper emphasizing the need for the manufacturing sector to grow and the strategic impact of adequate baseload capacity and recommendations on how to lower the cost of electricity.

Nonoy Oplas, President of Minimal Government Thinkers, as reactor, gave interesting insights on the presentations while Atty. Francis Saturnino Juan, former Executive Director of the Energy Regulatory Commission, moderated the Open Forum.

Among the participants were representatives from the government, academe, business groups, consumer groups, think tanks and energy sector.

Presentations of the speakers may be accessed in our Scribd library; photos of the event may be viewed here.