Bill creating PH energy think tank gets Senate nod

MANILA, Philippines — The Senate approved Wednesday on third and final reading a bill seeking to create a government think tank for the energy sector.

Under Senate Bill No. 1296, the proposed Philippine Energy Research and Policy Institute (PERPI) will perform critical research and policy development for needed reforms in the energy sector.

Senator Win Gatchalian, chair of the Senate committee on energy, said he envisions PERPI to “stand at the forefront of Philippine energy research and policy development, as an institution solely devoted to these pursuits.”

The PERPI will be established at the University of the Philippines (UP) and will operate under the Office of the UP President.

It will be steered by an executive board composed of scholars and energy sector professionals. Its executive director, a recognized expert in energy research and policy development, will be appointed by the UP president.

PERPI will also establish “linkages” with government and private institutions on existing energy research and policy studies, and shall likewise link with foreign entities for energy research and development and serve as the repository of all energy-related researches and studies.

As an independent, multidisciplinary institution, the body should ensure that its research endeavors will not be influenced or constrained by political affiliations, technological bias or other presuppositions.

The bill appropriates P200 million for the initial funding of the think tank. A special account for energy research will also be established and managed by the Bureau of Treasury which will recognize and accept grants, contributions, and donations.

Edited by MUF