Sen. Loren Legarda lauded the now coal-free province of Masbate for banning the development and operation of coal-fired power plants.
Legarda said Masbate Provincial Board Resolution No. 096-18 would reduce harmful emissions, promote renewable energy and safeguard the environment and people’s health.
“I commend these enlightened local government units,” Legarda said.
“I urge all other provinces to follow suit,” said Legarda, chair of the Senate committee on climate change.
Masbate has joined an elite club of provinces that is ditching coal in favor or renewable energy like solar, wind and hydropower.
The other four provinces that banned the use of coal-powered energy projects were Ilocos Norte, Negros Oriental, Sorsogon and Guimaras.
Masbate relies on diesel generators, which are breakdown-prone and being subsidized by the national government.
But plans are afoot to connect the province to a solar battery micro grid, which provides clean, reliable and cheaper power.
By shunning coal-fired power plants and shifting to renewable, clean energy sources, “Masbate…is choosing energy sources that are more reliable, efficient and cheaper,” said Legarda.