The United Kingdom and the Philippines have strengthened their climate partnership with the official launch of the Philippines Country Fund under the UK Partnering for Accelerated Climate Transitions (UK PACT) programme in Manila. The initiative aims to accelerate the country’s low-carbon transition through technical assistance, capacity-building, and targeted interventions in the energy sector.
In its first year, the Philippines-UK PACT Country Fund has prioritized clean energy, aligning with the Philippines’ goal to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 75% by 2030 and meet renewable energy targets of 35% in the power generation mix by 2030, 50% by 2040, and eventually a majority share by 2050. Key interventions include updating offshore wind pricing models to strengthen green energy auctions, conducting offshore wind infrastructure assessments, advancing marine spatial planning for sustainable development, developing a cost simulation tool for the electric power system, and accelerating micro-grid deployment in underserved areas to expand energy access and support inclusive growth.
The launch event brought together government agencies, development partners, academia, civil society, and private sector stakeholders to share insights, align objectives, and explore collaboration opportunities. British Ambassador to the Philippines Sarah Hulton OBE emphasized that a diversified, renewables-driven power sector not only reduces emissions but also creates opportunities for cost savings, resilience, and sustainable jobs.
Philippine Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Raphael Perpetuo Lotilla highlighted the programme’s value in integrating biodiversity and social considerations into marine spatial planning, ensuring that energy security and environmental protection go hand in hand. ERC Chairperson Francis Saturnino C. Juan underscored the benefit of UK expertise in offshore wind, noting that the programme bridges local ambition with global knowledge to equip young Filipino engineers with practical skills and institutional know-how.
Paolo G. Fondevilla, representing the Department of Energy, stressed the strategic importance of joint national energy security and the commitment to sourcing it from sustainable energy. The Philippines-UK PACT Country Fund is expected to strengthen institutions, accelerate renewable energy deployment, and lay the technical foundations for a reliable, future-ready energy system, delivering a cleaner, more resilient, and inclusive energy future for the Philippines.
