"Pathways to Sustainability: Empowering Leaders to Champion Just Energy Transition" commences, strengthening efforts for a low-carbon future

In a significant stride towards fostering sustainable energy practices, the Ateneo School of Government (ASOG), in collaboration with the Philippine Legislators' Committee on Population and Development (PLCPD), officially launched the "Pathways to Sustainability: Empowering Leaders to Champion Just Energy Transition" program. The capacity-building initiative, held from 29 August to 12 September 2024, aims to equip legislators, legislative staff, and civil society organizations (CSOs) with the knowledge and skills to advance the country’s shift to a low-carbon economy.

The program, anchored in the objectives of the historic Paris Agreement, emphasizes the critical role that modern, reliable, and sustainable energy plays in the Philippines' economic resilience and its efforts to mitigate climate change. Over a series of online and in-person sessions, participants explored the complexities of energy policy, behavior economics, and the legislative frameworks necessary for a just energy transition (JET).

Throughout the course, participants gained a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted dimensions of JET, including its implications for economic growth, environmental sustainability, and social equity. Key discussions revolved around the pivotal role of energy in shaping the Philippine economy, strategies for achieving energy security, and the need for stronger investments in clean energy technologies.

Highlights of the Program:

• Week 1: Sessions delved into the overarching goals of a low-carbon economy and the role of energy in driving economic development, emphasizing the interconnections between energy systems, climate change, and sustainability.
• Week 2: Participants explored the influence of behavior economics on energy consumption, as well as policy formulation and legislative frameworks essential for promoting renewable energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
• Week 3: A focus on energy financing and stakeholder engagement provided insights into securing funding for renewable projects and ensuring that the energy transition is inclusive, equitable, and sustainable for all.

The culminating session, held in person at the Ateneo School of Government featured capstone presentations from participants, showcasing innovative strategies to engage various stakeholders in advancing a just energy transition. These presentations highlighted practical approaches for addressing the financial, social, and environmental challenges posed by the energy transition.

As the world moves toward renewable energy and intelligent energy systems, this program underscores the importance of equipping legislators and policymakers with the expertise to lead the way. The partnership between ASOG and PLCPD demonstrates the commitment of the Philippines to both national and global climate goals, ensuring that the transition to a low-carbon economy prioritizes both environmental and social justice.

We are grateful to our esteemed resource persons Mr. Joel Chester Pagulayan (Climate Justice Portfolio Manager of Oxfam Pilipinas), Atty. Pedro Maniego Jr. (Chairman of Institute of Corporate Directors), Dr. Teodoro Lloydon Bautista (Project Lead of Tara ASoG Project and Faculty of Ateneo School of Government), Atty. Ryan Jay Roset (Senior Legal Fellow of the Development and Social Change of Legal Rights and Natural Resources Center-Friends of the Earth), and Mr. Janssen Martinez (Climate Policy Manager of Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities) and our guests during the culminating session, Mr. Romeo Dongeto (Executive Director of PLCPD, Mr. Reginald Rex Barrer (Faculty of Ateneo School of Government), Ms. Angel Chan (Senior Climate Policy Analyst of  Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities) and Ateneo Policy Center Senior Fellow, Dr. Josef Yap.

To see the upcoming short courses offered to the public by the Executive Education Program, please Please stay updated through our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ateneosog

Interested in knowing more? Contact us and learn about ASoG-ExecEd’s course and training offerings: execed.asog@ateneo.edu