ILOILO CITY — The Department of Energy (DOE) has selected Iloilo province as the pilot area in the country for its proposed energy infrastructure ordinance.

THE Department of Energy (DOE) led by Undersecretary Sharon Garin meets Iloilo provincial government officials led by Gov. Arthur 'Toto' Defensor Jr. to discuss the proposed energy infrastructure ordinance. (Iloilo Capitol PIO)
The proposal aims to enhance energy security by streamlining processes of integrating permit requirements from various government agencies into a more efficient and investment-friendly framework.
DOE Undersecretary Sharon Garin presented their proposal in a recent meeting with the provincial government led by Gov. Arthur “Toto” Defensor Jr., her sister Vice Gov. Christine “Ting-Ting” Garin, and Provincial Administrator Raul Banias.
Undersecretary Garin said the proposed ordinance can simplify approval processes while ensuring compliance with national and local policies.
The proposal is seen to boost local governance over energy investments as there are numerous key energy projects already in Iloilo.
The governor urged balance on energy investment.
Defensor reiterated that Iloilo will continue its role in the agricultural industry as they are committed to the directive of the Marcos administration in increasing rice production for food sustainability.
Undersecretary Garin was accompanied by officials of the Visayas field offices of the DOE Renewable Energy Management Bureau and Biomass Energy Management Division.