Philippine President Urges Local Governments to Support Energy Conservation Program

Strategic Insights -

Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has called on local government units (LGUs) to support the government's energy conservation program by taking initiatives to reduce the use of imported oil. She made the appeal at the 14th anniversary of the Local Government Code and the launching of the "Kilos Lokal, Asenso Nasyonal" movement, which aims to build prosperity from community to community. The President also urged LGUs to help develop alternative fuels and allow oil and gas exploration within their jurisdictions. She emphasized the importance of strengthening energy conservation efforts and called on Congress to pass the Indigenous Fuel Bill to achieve energy self-sufficiency.

Key Takeaways:

  • President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo urged local government units (LGUs) to support the government's energy conservation program by reducing the use of imported oil.
  • The President called on LGUs to help develop alternative fuels such as ethanol, biomass, wind power, hydropower, geothermal power, and to allow oil and gas exploration within their jurisdictions.
  • The government aims to achieve energy self-sufficiency through the implementation of the Indigenous Fuel Bill, which is currently pending in Congress.
  • The Philippines is one of 26 countries worldwide with the lowest fuel price increases, despite being heavily dependent on imported crude oil.
  • The country has escaped the financial crisis thanks to the successful implementation of the first phase of President Arroyo's economic reform program.
  • The Expanded Value Added Tax (EVAT) law, which is part of the revenue buildup measure, requires increased participation from LGUs to explain its importance to their constituents.

Statistics:

  • The Philippines is one of 26 countries out of 200 countries worldwide with the lowest fuel price increases.
  • The country has a heavy dependence on imported crude oil.
  • 14 years have passed since the implementation of the Local Government Code.
  • 2 phases of President Arroyo's economic reform program have been implemented so far.
  • The EVAT law aims to improve social services and create livelihood opportunities for the people.

Sources:

  • Asia Pulse, October 11
  • (PNA), 11-10 1222