Bonifacio Global City, Taguig — The Philippine National Oil Company (PNOC) and the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to jointly explore the development of a Self-Generating Industrial Park (SGIP). Signed today, October 14, 2024, at PNOC’s Networking Hall, the MOU solidifies a strategic partnership focused on strengthening the energy sector within PEZA-managed economic zones while identifying new energy projects and business opportunities.

As part of the agreement, PEZA will provide crucial information, conduct studies, and offer logistical support to evaluate the feasibility of developing the SGIP. Additionally, PEZA will collaborate with PNOC on a range of energy initiatives, including the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) rooftops on government buildings, retail electricity supply projects, the promotion of clean and renewable energy technologies, small-scale natural gas initiatives for local communities, and the development of oil and gas depots and storage facilities. The partnership remains open to further energy-related ventures as opportunities arise.

The primary objective of the MOU is to foster cooperation between PNOC and PEZA in advancing energy projects while exploring broader opportunities for collaboration. Both organizations are committed to coordinating their efforts in energy resource development, conducting scoping activities, pre-feasibility and feasibility studies, and promoting energy programs within PEZA zones.

The MOU was signed by PNOC President and CEO Oliver B. Butalid and PEZA Director General Tereso O. Panga. During the signing, Butalid expressed, “In previous agreements, we concentrated on solar rooftops as the initial deliverable of our collaboration. Today, we are excited to formalize a broader partnership with PEZA as a strategic ally. Our aim is to address energy challenges in off-grid islands through Self-Generating Industrial Parks, offering not just solar rooftops for new buildings but also sustainable, long-term energy solutions.”

PEZA, the government agency responsible for operating, administering, and developing economic zones, shares PNOC’s vision of sustainable energy development. Together, they seek to promote investment, stimulate regional growth, and revolutionize industrial development across the Philippines.

“A common resolve has emerged to develop embedded energy resources, promoting clean and green production as well as ensuring energy sufficiency through an agency-to-agency collaboration aimed at deploying energy facilities in the ecozones throughout the country. This is all for our pursuit of attracting energy-intensive and green investments such as those in the semiconductor and EV manufacturing industry, which are seen as the most promising, strategic, and high-impact sectors across ASEAN,” said Panga.

Both PNOC and PEZA will leverage their expertise and resources to achieve the MOU’s objectives. This landmark agreement represents a pivotal step in their shared mission to drive energy innovation and transform the industrial landscape of the Philippines.