.png)
DOE Shifts Remaining 2026 ASEAN Energy Meetings Virtually Under Philippine Chairship
Date published: Apr 12 2026 08:50 PM
MEDIA RELEASE
12 April 2026
DOE Shifts Remaining 2026 ASEAN Energy Meetings Virtually Under Philippine Chairship
The Department of Energy (DOE) will conduct its remaining ASEAN energy meetings for 2026 in a virtual format, in line with the President’s directive to recalibrate the Philippines’ hosting of ASEAN-related activities toward more cost-efficient and energy-conscious approaches while keeping key sectoral deliverables on track. The broader recalibration of ASEAN 2026 hosting was announced by the Philippine government on 27 March 2026, with a sharper focus on urgent priorities including energy security.
The shift covers the succeeding meetings under the Philippines’ 2026 chairship of the ASEAN energy sector, following the successful hosting of the ASEAN Special Senior Officials Meeting on Energy in Bohol from 20 to 22 January 2026.
“Even as we adjust the format of our meetings, the Philippines remains fully committed to delivering a productive and results-oriented ASEAN energy chairship,” said Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin. “By moving the meetings online, we can use resources more prudently, remain responsive to current realities, and sustain close coordination with our fellow ASEAN Member States and partners.”
Under the Philippine chairship, the DOE will continue to lead a full calendar of ASEAN energy engagements in the months ahead, including sub-sector meetings in April and May, the Senior Officials Meeting on Energy in June, and the ASEAN Ministers on Energy Meeting in September.
The DOE emphasized that the virtual format will not diminish the Philippines’ role in advancing ASEAN’s energy agenda. During its chairship, the Philippines will continue to advance regional priorities that strengthen energy security, enhance resilience, and support a more connected and future-ready ASEAN energy landscape. Key initiatives include the ASEAN Power Grid, the ASEAN Framework Agreement on Petroleum Security, and the Trans-ASEAN Gas Pipeline.
The Department likewise affirmed its commitment to sustained engagement with ASEAN Member States, the ASEAN Secretariat, the ASEAN Centre for Energy, and dialogue partners throughout the chairship period to ensure that discussions remain substantive, coordinated, and outcome-driven.