DOE Secretary Speaks at PNBC Event

After a high-level speaker graced PNBC’s Networking Luncheon on 15 February 2017 in the person of Secretary Ernesto M. Pernia of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), who gave an update on the state of the Philippine economy and the socio-economic agenda of the current administration, the Council’s recent networking event held last 07 April 2017 has once again featured another high-level speaker, this time in the person of Secretary Alfonso Cusi of the Department of Energy (DOE).

Sec. Cusi presented, among others, the installed and dependable power capacity mix of the country to show that our current supply is above the peak demand in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. However, investments in the power sector needs to continue to meet the steadily growing demand for power in the near future. The Secretary of Energy also gave an update on rural electrification, wherein he cited that the national household electrification level is now at 90.7%. He also presented the various challenges in the power industry, and where the country stands compared to its ASEAN neighbors. The Action Plan of the current administration was also unveiled, to address the current challenges of the sector.

The event was held at the Peninsula Manila, with almost 60 members and guests in attendance. PNBC President Ivar Thomasli, who introduced the guest speaker, also moderated the Q&A forum after the presentation. The event was also attended by Norwegian Ambassador H.E. Erik Forner, who led a very robust interaction with the DOE Secretary.