TAGUIG CITY – Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi today assured the public that the Department of Energy (DOE) will continue to monitor the energy services and supply levels nationwide and ensure that the public will be able to fully enjoy the holiday season without any energy services interruption.

“We will continue to monitor and will act accordingly to ensure that our homes and businesses will be lit up and energized so we can celebrate Christmas safely and remain healthy amidst this pandemic," Secretary Cusi said. 

As the country remains on various stages of quarantine, certain travel and community restrictions have been eased to allow the country to observe holiday traditions. 

The DOE is confident that the nation's power and fuel supply remains stable and reliable. "We have a healthy and robust supply mix in place, where energy players are well aware of the increasing demand during this season," Secretary Cusi assured the public, despite the impending closure of Petron's Bataan refinery and the recent spike in oil prices worldwide. 

At the same time, Secretary Cusi said the energy sector will continue to take an active role as the country reopens the economy.

“We continue to review our policies to make sure they are responsive to our current needs, as we strive to encourage foreign investors to consider the Philippines as their next destination,” he said.

Secretary Cusi also said the energy sector remains committed and one with the nation in containing the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Since the outbreak of the pandemic early this year, the DOE has remitted some P4.15 billion from the Energy Regulations No. 1-94 (ER1-94) Funds to the host local government units (LGUs) nationwide in the fight against the global health crisis.

The DOE is likewise looking forward to providing more support to the national government in its pandemic and disaster response by encouraging energy players to provide relief to their customers with the extension of the non-payment deadline as pushed by House Speaker and former Chairman of the House Committee on Energy Lord Allan Velasco; the restoration of power in areas devastated by the recent typhoons; and the assurance of power for blended learners and people who stay and work from home. 

"We are looking forward to a better and safer year ahead. Let us remain prudent in our celebrations at home so we can enjoy the blessing of good health and the promise of future reunions," Secretary Cusi concluded. 

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