TAGUIG CITY — The BARMM Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Energy (MENRE) and the Philippine National Oil Company (PNOC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on September 19 in Taguig City, marking the beginning of a long-term strategic partnership that will facilitate the realization of energy projects.

Minister Akmad A. Brahim, along with Director General for Energy Nasiri B. Abas, represented the MENRE during the signing. PNOC, on the other hand, was led by its President and CEO, Oliver B. Butalid, signifying the company’s commitment to contributing to the Bangsamoro region’s energy aspirations.

Under the MOU, PNOC will significantly contribute to supporting MENRE in several important initiatives aimed at driving clean energy development, promoting new and emerging Renewable Energy technologies, and improving the energy infrastructure in the Bangsamoro region.

This partnership underscores PNOC and MENRE’s shared commitment to enhancing the Bangsamoro region’s energy landscape, which is expected to drive both regional development and national energy security.

Minister Brahim emphasized the importance of the MOU in realizing the Bangsamoro region’s energy potential, saying that “this MOU is a critical step in unlocking the potential renewable energy resources of BARMM, which will not only power the region but also open up new opportunities for economic growth and job creation.”

PNOC President and CEO Butalid added that they are “excited to work closely with BARMM-MENRE to turn these initiatives into reality. Our collaboration reflects our mutual dedication to sustainable energy development and nation-building.”

The signing was also witnessed by BTA Member of Parliament and Energy Sub-Committee Chairman Mohammad Kelie U. Antao and PNOC Member of the Board Director Joel R. Caminade.

The energy projects that will be realized through this partnership are anticipated to benefit the Bangsamoro region and the country as a whole.