Philippines, Saudi Arabia to release energy roadmap in 2025

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines and Saudi Arabia are set to develop a roadmap implementing their recently signed energy cooperation agreement that is expected to be finalized early next year.

The two countries will engage in a series of bilateral meetings to craft the roadmap, with Energy Undersecretary Alessandro Sales leading representatives from the Philippines.

This followed the signing of a memorandum of understanding last month that outlines key areas of collaboration, including energy efficiency, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), native hydrogen exploration and digital technology.

In a statement, Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla said Saudi Arabia is specifically interested in native and naturally occurring hydrogen resources in the Philippines.

“Given Saudi Arabia’s extensive expertise in the exploration and development of upstream sectors, this cooperation holds promising benefits for both countries,” Lotilla said.

Earlier this year, the Department of Energy (DOE) offered two prospect areas for hydrogen exploration in Zambales, with several foreign companies keen on joining the bidding.

On SAF, or an environmentally friendly alternative to fossil-based jet fuel, the International Civil Aviation Organization has set global targets for its usage in commercial and civilian aviation.

Among approved pathways for SAF production is the utilization of cracked coconuts as a feedstock.

As the world’s second-largest coconut producer, the Philippines could leverage these coconuts to support SAF production, the DOE said.

Further, Lotilla expects the Philippines and Saudi Arabia to explore the adoption of digital technology and artificial intelligence to improve the management of electrical systems and broader energy infrastructure.

“This collaboration aims to strengthen the country’s energy network by enabling smarter grids, automated control systems and data-driven decision-making that can reduce waste, enhance resource utilization and bolster energy security,” the DOE chief added.

With a well-defined roadmap, the DOE also envisions this strategic cooperation with Saudi Arabia to drive economic growth and sustainable development.