RE to shield Phl from global trade shocks

A stronger renewable energy (RE) push could provide the Philippines with a critical buffer against global trade shocks sparked by US President Donald Trump's sweeping tariffs, according to experts.

- By BRIX LELIS

Gerry Arances, executive director at the Center for Energy, Ecology and Development (CEED), said the Philippines could capitalize on its "over 300 GW (gigawatts)" of untapped RE potential to support its supply chain.

"This vast potential positions the country to attract significant debt-free investments from global partners seeking stable and expanding clean energy markets," he said.

Policy shifts under the Trump administration, Arances said, highlight the urgent need for the Philippines and the rest of Asia to speed up their RE transition and cut reliance on volatile imported gas.

In its latest report, London-based energy think tank Ember said Asia is the "most exposed" to fossil import risks, with the continent's import dependency expected to rise further.