A public consultation towards advancing renewable energy in Bohol took place on November 05, 2024, at JJ’s Seafood Village in Tagbilaran City. The activity, organized by the Bohol Association of Non-Government Organization, Inc., the Provincial Government of Bohol, and the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities under the Advancing Sustainable Provincial Investments for Renewable Energy (ASPIRE) project, aimed to engage various sectors including members of the Bohol Renewable Energy Code (BREB), Provincial Legal Office, Clean Energy Advocates, Distribution Utilities representatives BOHECO I, BOHECO II, and BLCI, Academic Institutions, Renewable Energy Developers and Installers and varied Civil Society Organizations.
Vice-chair of BANGON, Inc., Mr. Aurelio Salgados, opened the activity with a warm welcome and a brief orientation about BANGON and the ASPIRE Project. Project Manager Jerrey Aguilar acknowledged the significant representation from various sectors, underscoring the collaborative spirit essential for advancing renewable energy initiatives. The consultation was facilitated by Ms. Gaynor Tanyang of Lumina Ventures, who articulated the session’s primary objectives, focusing on gathering stakeholder input on the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the Bohol Renewable Energy Code, assessing Bohol’s current energy situation and exploring pathways for renewable energy integration, and strengthening partnerships for public awareness on sustainable energy initiatives in Bohol. Mr. Jhun Escobar and Mr. Mel Matthew Doctor from the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities also attended the activity, they guided the discussions and shared critical insights into the renewable energy landscape.
One of the discussion points during the consultation is the Provincial Ordinance 2023-18 also known as the Bohol Renewable Energy Code. Atty. Neil Ochoco from the Provincial Legal Office presented the Salient Features of the ordinance, emphasizing the ordinance’s role in fostering renewable energy development in the province. Sangguniang Panlalawigan Member Hon. Jisselle Rae A. Villamor, a notable author of the Bohol Renewable Energy Code, delivers a message acknowledging the importance of broad participation, inclusive discussions, and collective action in promoting sustainable renewable energy initiatives. Hon. Villamor expressed her gratitude for the gathering.
Engr. Dave Pojadas then delved into the discussion on the Potential of Renewable Energy in Bohol, discussing various aspects focusing on the province’s energy landscape, power system, energy demands, and the current state of renewable energy sources. Engr. Pojadas also shared the barriers to renewable energy integration and weighed the advantages and disadvantages of these technologies. Adding to the discussions, Miss Lou Arciaga from the Department of Energy-Visayas Field Office outlined the national renewable energy plans, providing context and direction for local initiatives.
The activity included an open forum and a workshop, where participants shared vital insights and collaborated on crucial aspects of crafting the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the Bohol Renewable Energy Code. The feedback collected during these sessions is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping Bohol’s energy future.
Concluding the activity, a commitment signing took place, reinforcing a dedication to sustainable energy initiatives. Mr. Francis Bernard Batoy, President of BANGON, Inc. delivered a closing remark, urging continued commitment to integrating renewable energy as part of Bohol’s growth and development.
With a shared commitment among various stakeholders, this consultation marks a significant step toward realizing Bohol’s renewable energy potential, paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future for the province.
-BANGON
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