The Department of Energy (DOE) highlighted key initiatives to advance waste-to-energy development in the Philippines, including a dedicated renewable energy auction and measures to clarify project requirements, during the third Japan-Philippines Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) Meeting on Solid Waste Management held last October 15.

The Japan-Philippines Joint Coordination Committee Meeting is an inter-organizational steering body formed for specific technical cooperation and development projects between Philippine government agencies and the Japan International Cooperation Agency.

The meeting brought together representatives from the DOE, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Ministry of the Environment of Japan, Public-Private Partnership Center and local governments to discuss regulatory, financial and institutional changes affected waste-to-energy development.

Renewable Energy Management Bureau Assistant Director Ruby de Guzman presented the country's waste-to-energy policies and development initiatives, including the Special Green Energy Auction for waste-to-energy, which held its auction on October 13.

The auction aims to encourage investments in electricity generation from municipal solid waste while supporting the country's renewable energy objectives.

Under the auction timeline, the notice of award for the potential winning bidders is scheduled for posting on November 5.

Japanese representatives shared their experience in ash management, environmental monitoring and community engagement, highlighting the importance of environmental safeguards and public confidence in waste-to-energy development.

The PPP Center also discussed opportunities to strengthen private sector participation and support the preparation of viable projects. Department of Energy