Human Rights Online Philippines

Photos from PMCJ FB Page

Cagayan de Oro City — May 3, 2024— The Philippine Movement for Climate Justice (PMCJ), the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP), and the Institute of Power Sector Economics (IPSEc) have officially entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to advance renewable energy initiatives in Misamis Oriental, Philippines.

This MOA signifies a collaborative effort among PMCJ, USTP, and IPSEc to address the pressing need for sustainable energy solutions in the region. By leveraging their respective expertise and resources, the parties aim to:

1. Produce a province-wide Renewable Energy Roadmap and Investment Plan for Misamis Oriental.
2. Capacitate localities towards renewable energy readiness, complementing plans with potential energy sources and environmental factors.
3. Develop guidelines to advise concerned officials in local government units on investment for renewable energy projects and compliance with energy efficiency and conservation laws.

“This partnership of PMCJ, USTP, Agropolis and IPSEC, will make available not less than 1 GW of renewables for the province. This will be realized with the RE Roadmap and the support of the Provincial Government of Misamis Oriental,” Ian Rivera, National Coordinator of PMCJ declared. “This is Misamis Oriental’s answer to the global call of climate emergency and the phasing out fossil fuels. Misamis Oriental will trigger the similar efforts in the region to tap into the vast RE potentials the whole region can offer,” he added. “Watch this partnership, as a Renewable Energy and Investment Summit will be held before the end of this year,” Rivera concluded.

The parties to this agreement, through their respective functions and responsibilities, have committed to work towards these objectives in support of environmental sustainability and energy sufficiency.

“The signing of this Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) underscores our unwavering commitment to fostering collaborative research and innovative solutions in pursuit of sustainable energy development,” said Dionel O. Albina, Chancellor, USTP CDO Campus. “USTP’s Power Institute is dedicated to leveraging our expertise and resources to drive positive change in our community and beyond,” Albina added. “Through this partnership, we now have a chance to empower localities to embrace renewable energy sources and strengthen environmental resilience. We can harness the power of research, education, and technology to build a brighter, greener future for Misamis Oriental. We are now given the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on our environment and pave the way for a more sustainable tomorrow.”

Key roles and responsibilities outlined in the MOA include:

1. PMCJ will provide logistical support for scoping activities, coordinate research efforts, and ensure the participation of relevant personnel.
2. USTP will designate engineers and personnel for collaborative research, provide access to facilities, and support the implementation of the Renewable Energy Investment Plan.
3. IPSEc will assign industry experts, collaborate on research efforts, and provide technical guidance for the Local Energy Plan.

“Today marks a pivotal moment in our collective pursuit of sustainable energy solutions for Misamis Oriental,” said Clint Django G. Pacana, Manager, Agropolis S & T Park. “The University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP) is proud to stand alongside the Philippine Movement for Climate Justice (PMCJ) and the Institute of Power Sector Economics (IPSEc) as we formalize our commitment to advance renewable energy initiatives in the region,” he added. “USTP recognizes the critical importance of collaboration in tackling the climate crisis. Through this MOA, we affirm our dedication to working hand in hand with our partners to create a more resilient and sustainable future for Misamis Oriental and beyond,” he further stated. “I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all those involved in making this collaboration possible. Together, we are taking a significant step forward in promoting renewable energy development and environmental sustainability in our region. The effective date of the MOA is upon signing by the authorized representatives of the parties and will remain in effect until modified or terminated by mutual consent.”

Present to the MOA signing were the following:

Ian Rivera, National Coordinator, PMCJ

Teresa O. Fajardo, Head, USTP CDO Extension, Community & Research Division

Stanley B. Uriarte, Board member, IPSEc

Christopher O. Dolino, Head, USTP Power Institute

Clint Django G. Pacana, Manager, Agropolis S & T Park

This collaboration marks a significant step forward in promoting renewable energy development and sustainability in Misamis Oriental, demonstrating a shared commitment to environmental stewardship and community resilience.

PMCJ was formed to advance the notion of climate justice as a solution to the climate crisis the world is facing today. It was formed to lead the joint struggles, campaigns, and actions that would put forward the urgent demands for climate and comprehensive social, economic, and political transformation in the country.

The movement consists of 150 national networks, alliances, and local organizations representing basic sectors, grassroot communities, the marginalized and the most vulnerable.