Energy security for a self-reliant PH amid oil volatility
The relentless surge in pump prices, driven by the escalating conflict in the Middle East, is no longer just an economic burden. It serves as one of the greatest scientific wake-up calls in our history. President Marcos recently stated that the government is seeking other countries to supply oil and is considering emergency powers to provide subsidies.
While these measures offer temporary relief, they are mere breadcrumbs. We must realize that our nation needs long-term solutions, not just a continuous search for new imports to meet energy demands.
Tensions in the Middle East are not likely to stop soon, even if the United States and its allies suggest otherwise. A recent Inquirer editorial pointed out that the oil shock of the 1970s pushed the government to develop geothermal energy. Today, we need a similar, aggressive push toward indigenous alternative energy.
Beyond the usual solar and wind farms, the physics of our geography offers vast, untapped potential. As an archipelago, we are surrounded by the ocean, allowing us to harness tidal energy and install wave generators for a consistent power supply.
What truly matters is how we effectively store this energy for our nation to use when demand is high or when the weather is not favorable. We can utilize gravitational potential energy through pumped-storage hydroelectric stations.
By pumping water uphill during periods of low energy demand and releasing it through turbines when demand peaks, we can stabilize our grid without relying on imported coal or gas.
However, generating electricity is only half the battle. We must also address our transportation issues and help Filipinos who currently own vehicles that rely on gas to function. We need to implement alternative ways to get from one point to another. This includes the widespread implementation of e-bikes and innovative vehicles that do not require fossil fuels or petroleum. For those who already own gas-reliant cars, the government should support local engineering initiatives to develop affordable electric conversion kits or offer substantial programs to help them transition to sustainable mobility.
None of these solutions can materialize without proper funding. Our country severely lacks financial support for research and development. We need to firmly allocate at least one percent of our gross domestic product to research and development.
We must provide a clear pathway so there can be a way for Filipinos to contribute and help the nation solve problems like this.
If we keep importing and relying on other nations, how can we Filipinos maintain the consistency of thriving? Our country needs to adapt to these changes. By funding our scientists and trusting our own capabilities, we can secure lasting solutions for oil volatility and build a self-reliant Philippines.
Marciano L. Legarde,
marcianolegarde@gmail.com
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