MANILA - The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has given the Department of Energy (DOE) a total of PHP2.2 billion for the implementation of energy projects in 2023. The allocation of about PHP2.2 billion was in line with the Marcos administration's bid to ensure an affordable and clean energy supply in the country, the DBM said in a press statement. It said the proposed funding would be used for energy programs, including the Total Electrification Project (TEP), Renewable Energy Development Program, Energy Efficiency and Conservation Program, and Alternative Fuels and Technologies Program. In a statement, Budget Secretary Amehan Pangandaman said the proposed budget for DOE's key programs would help the government achieve its goal to provide a reliable and affordable power supply in the country. "These initiatives are part of the administration's commitment to providing reasonably priced, sustainable, and sufficient electricity," Pangandaman said. Under the proposed 2023 National Expenditure Program, about PHP500 million of the PHP2.2 billion would be earmarked for the TEP implementation. The TEP aims to make electricity available to a minimum of 10,000 households nationwide. It is expected to address the need for reliable energy sources for remaining underserved and unserved Filipino households with no access to electricity. Pangandaman said the project is vital in revitalizing the country's economy. "This is good news, especially for far-flung areas where electricity is scarce. The Total Electrification Project of the DOE shall help improve and modernize industries in different provinces across the country, which will lead to the expansion of our economy," she said. The DBM also noted that about PHP476 million would be allocated to fund DOE's Renewable Energy Development Program, Energy Efficiency and Conservation Program, and Alternative Fuels and Technologies Program. The National Renewable Energy Program lays down the foundation for developing the country's renewable energy (RE) resources, stimulating investments in the RE sector, developing technologies, and providing the impetus for national and local RE planning that will help identify the most feasible and least-cost RE development. The DOE also intends to adopt energy efficiency and conservation methods, and implement the alternative fuels and energy technology program to promote sustainable development and use of the country's natural resources. Building new power plants, the use of renewable energy, and reducing the price of electricity for consumers are among the top priorities of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Consistent with Marcos' directive to ensure the availability of reliable energy, the DOE has been preparing for the implementation of viable electrification programs that would address the pressing issues faced by the energy sector. (PNA) }