Clean energy movers hail new DENR chief
The reassignment of Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Raphael Lotilla as the new environment chief could be a “unique opportunity” for clean power to gain stronger momentum, an industry leader said.
MGen is the power generation arm of Manila Electric Co., which is backed by business titan Manuel V. Pangilinan. It has a diverse portfolio of power generation facilities, including a 4,953-megawatt capacity from both traditional and renewable sources. MGen is also behind a massive solar farm in Luzon, touted to become the world’s largest solar facility.
“His leadership and policy insight will definitely be missed,” Rubio told Inquirer.
But he believes Lotilla shifting to the DENR was a smart play that could still benefit the power sector.
“It’s a chance to bridge energy and environmental goals even more closely—something we really need as we push forward with the energy transition,” he said.
“Regulatory alignment is key, and I’m hopeful that under his leadership, we’ll see stronger synergies across the board,” the executive added.
Lotilla will replace Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga.
Oliver Tan, Citicore Renewable Energy Corp. (CREC) president and CEO, also reiterated in a message the group’s commitment to supporting the DOE’s renewable energy initiatives.
CREC is targeting five gigawatts of renewables capacity by 2028. Currently, the company’s installed capacity is 285 megawatts coming from 10 solar power facilities.
Tan said his company would work closely with DOE undersecretary Sharon Garin, who has been designated as officer-in-charge of the agency.
In a separate interview, Energy Regulatory Commission Chair Monalisa Dimalanta said Garin’s appointment was one of cohesion, “[ensuring] continuity in policy implementation in the energy sector where decisions have long-term implications. We remain hopeful and will fully support efforts to make sure that this is realized.”
