TAGUIG CITY—The Department of Energy (DOE) on Wednesday (1 December) virtually kicked off the month-long celebration of the National Energy Consciousness Month (NECM) for 2021.

With the theme, "Committed to Serve: Building a Better Normal by Forging Ahead through Energy Ability, Security, and Sustainability,” the NECM's annual observance seeks to instill a strong foundation of energy literacy and awareness among Filipinos, while highlighting their crucial role in defining the energy future of the country. 

In his inspirational message, Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi emphasized that this year's NECM captures the Department's objective to "uphold and enhance the well-being of Filipino energy consumers.”

"The past several years have been riddled with challenges, and yet the DOE and the entire Philippine Energy Family continue to forge on. We are here to serve the public, and they, just like you and I, deserve nothing but the very best in everything that we do here in the agency," Secretary Cusi said. 

The Energy chief, ensuring that the country's current energy needs are met, and while constantly working toward providing an even brighter energy future, is a tall order. ”Mas lalo na po sa panahon ngayon, we need to be even more determined and innovative in our approach toward defining and realizing our energy goals," he stressed. 

He also expressed his appreciation to all the members of the DOE and the Energy Family for their continued support and untiring dedication. 

”Sa inyong lahat na bumubuo sa Energy family—maraming salamat po sa inyong patuloy at walang takot na pagsusumikap para ating matugunan ang pangangailangang pang-enerhiya ng mamamayang Pilipino. The past couple of years have not been easy for any of us, but the DOE wouldn’t have made it this far without each and every one of you," the Secretary stated.

This year’s celebration features several energy-related campaigns, including:

- Information, Education and Communication (IEC) virtual seminars by the DOE (including those on dam safety operations, especially life-saving spilling operations during typhoons; and measures to maximize the use of water resources), which will be rolled out in the coming days;

- Energy Investment Forum (IEF), which will focus on energy finance to mobilize resources toward energy security, clean and renewable source development, and climate change issues; and 

- Energy Efficiency and Conservation (EE&C) seminars for government offices and entities in different regions;

—among other activities.

The DOE will also host several internal programs—such as bloodletting programs, virtual seminar on health and wellness, and the virtual chorale singing contest—to celebrate its 49th anniversary.

In 2007, then-President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo signed Proclamation No. 1427, declaring December of every year as NECM, to coincide with the DOE's anniversary.

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