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The province of Iloilo is emerging as a leading force in the Philippines’ renewable energy (RE) movement, earning recognition for innovative initiatives that promote sustainability, energy efficiency, and local resilience. From pioneering legislation to hosting high-profile industry events, Iloilo is setting a benchmark for other provinces seeking to accelerate the nation’s clean energy transition.
Through a combination of proactive local governance, strategic partnerships, and community-focused programs, Iloilo has demonstrated how local government units (LGUs) can play a pivotal role in achieving national RE goals. In doing so, the province highlights the crucial link between sustainable energy adoption and socio-economic development.
Award-winning leadership in RE
The Visayas Field Office of the Department of Energy (DOE) recently recognized Iloilo as an “Energy Champion” under its Energy Champions, Leaders, Achievers, and Pioneers (ECLAP) Awards. Chief Science Research Specialist Lourdes Arciaga emphasized the significance of the awards: “We want to recognize government entities, individuals, and other institutions that have contributed to the promotion of our goal on renewable energy and energy efficiency.”
Iloilo’s provincial government has made remarkable strides under the Government Energy Management Program (GEMP). Every local government unit in the province has adopted a Local Efficiency and Conservation Plan, which earmarks funds for energy efficiency projects. This comprehensive approach not only encourages the adoption of clean energy solutions but also positions Iloilo as a model for replication across the country.
The province has also seen innovative policy measures championed by leaders such as Board Member Rolando Distura, who authored the Iloilo Provincial Ordinance for Renewable Energy (I-PORE). The ordinance mandates that half a percent of the provincial budget is allocated specifically for RE initiatives. “We want to highlight this to also encourage other provinces,” Arciaga added, underscoring the replicable impact of Iloilo’s approach.
Further advancing these efforts, Distura is now pushing the Iloilo Schools Having Access to Renewable Energy ordinance, which prioritizes electrification for remote schools and underserved communities. These initiatives aim to extend the benefits of RE to students and communities that previously lacked access to electricity.
(Also read: Northern Samar Celebrated for Outstanding Sustainability Efforts)
Catalyzing a local energy revolution
Iloilo’s leadership in clean power was showcased during the 8th Renewable Energy Congress and Exhibit, held at the Iloilo Convention Center on December 11 to 12, 2025.
Organized in partnership with the Center for Empowerment, Innovation, and Training on Renewable Energy (CentRE), the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities, and Central Philippine University, the event drew over 200 participants, including national agencies, LGU executives, investors, and development partners.
A major highlight was the launch of the Iloilo Declaration for 5R 4 JET — Renewable, Resilience, Reliability, Resource Efficiency, and Responsibility for a Just Energy Transition. This
outlined five key agenda areas for accelerating RE adoption.
Secretary of Energy Sharon Garin, in her keynote address, discussed progress and challenges in reaching the country’s 2030 RE targets.
“LGUs must move beyond being passive recipients of national policy and become active energy entrepreneurs,” explained CentRE Executive Director Maris Cardenas. When a mayor champions renewable energy, they are effectively championing economic resilience and climate justice for their constituents.”
The event also highlighted the economic and social benefits of RE deployment at the local level. Solar and wind energy installations, particularly rooftop solar PV systems and LGU-backed wind farms, can stabilize grids, reduce electricity costs, and create new revenue streams for local governments. These funds can then be reinvested into community services, reinforcing a cycle of sustainable growth.
“LGUs must actively coordinate with the DOE to streamline the Net Metering process and participate in the Green Energy Option Program (GEOP),” Cardenas added, stressing the importance of regulatory support in facilitating local RE projects.
Stakeholder engagement emerged as a core theme, with experts stressing the need to involve Indigenous peoples, fishing sectors, environmental groups, and local leaders from the outset. “We have seen that successful RE projects are built on trust. LGUs must champion comprehensive stakeholder engagement…from the earliest planning stages,” Cardenas said, highlighting the connection between community buy-in and long-term project success.
(Also read: Pepsi Philippines Lights the Way with Solar-Powered Christmas Tree in Bacolod)
Driving a greener, resilient future
Iloilo’s concerted push toward RE reflects a broader vision of local empowerment, climate resilience, and economic innovation. By combining legislative foresight, community-centered programs, and strategic partnerships with national and international agencies, the province is forging a path toward a sustainable and inclusive energy future.
“The future of energy security and economic prosperity in the Philippines rests on the willingness of our local leaders to seize the immense, reliable power of the sun and the wind,” Cardenas concluded.
Sources:
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1264692
https://www.iloilo.gov.ph/en/environment-news/2025-renewable-energy-congress-and-exhibit-day-1
https://businessmirror.com.ph/2025/12/11/garin-addresses-renewable-energy-congress-2025-in-iloilo