PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, PHILIPPINES—The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has concluded its two-year initiative titled “Mainstreaming Energy Efficiency in MSMEs Buildings in the Philippines” with the Investors’ Roadshow held on May 21 in Palawan.

This event aimed to translate the technical groundwork of the project into actionable opportunities for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) interested in reducing energy costs and enhancing competitiveness.

The project was implemented from July 2023 to July 2025, funded by the BIMP-EAGA Korea Cooperation Fund and executed in collaboration with the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI).

During the roadshow, DTI and its partners highlighted the project's major achievements, sharing insights from detailed energy audits and technical assessments completed during the duration of the project.

DTI Assistant Secretary Kristian R. Ablan emphasized the significance of the initiative.

“Over the past months, we have conducted in-depth energy audits, engaged with MSMEs on the ground, and developed investment-ready proposals,” he stated, noting the opportunity for MSMEs to markedly reduce energy consumption and operational costs while enhancing sustainability and profitability.

A noteworthy achievement of the project was the completion of energy audits for ten MSMEs, including three in Palawan and seven in Mindanao.

The results revealed potential annual savings of 121,311 kWh in energy consumption, PHP 10.04 million in cost reductions, and a decrease of 80.2 tCO₂e in emissions, similar to the environmental impact of planting over 3,600 trees.

The total investment required for these energy-saving measures is estimated at PHP 26.7 million, with a projected payback period of two to three years.

Recommendations from the audits included transitioning to energy-efficient appliances, installing solar photovoltaic and water heating systems, insulating kilns and piping, employing Phase Change Materials for cold storage, implementing LED and daylighting systems, and using energy monitoring tools along with internal efficiency policies.

To assist MSMEs in adopting these measures, the DTI is facilitating business plan development to aid in securing financing from development institutions and private investors.

This initiative aligns with GGGI’s earlier policy mapping and gap analysis, which identified existing laws—such as RA 7638, RA 9513, RA 11285, and the National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Program—as supportive of energy efficiency (EE).

However, it also highlighted a lack of provisions specifically addressing MSMEs within the Philippine Energy Plan and AmBisyon Natin 2040.

As part of the roadshow’s activities, the DTI organized a Technology Showcase and a panel discussion, aimed at broadening the appeal of EE practices among a wider range of MSMEs and stimulating interest in sustainable business solutions.

The initiative further aims to mobilize support from key stakeholders within the government, private sector, and technology providers, reinforcing a coordinated push for green transformation.

The roadshow reflects the DTI’s commitment to advancing inclusive and sustainable economies in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s “Bagong Pilipinas” vision.

Through the integration of policy development, technical expertise, and investment mobilization, this effort aspires to accelerate the energy transition across the MSME sector throughout the nation.