Philippines can achieve energy independence through local governments leading the way

The ongoing 2026 energy crisis highlighted once again the Philippines’ vulnerability to external shocks due to its dependence on imported fossil fuels. While efforts were made to fast-track crisis-related measures, long-term energy reforms such as increased accountability and transparency, fuel pass-through management, and grid modernization to enable higher indigenous energy share and consumer participation—all to lower electricity tariffs—are urgently needed.