Manila: The Department of Energy (DOE) has received PHP57.4 million from the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), marking PCSO's 2023 contribution to the Renewable Energy Trust Fund (RETF). This allocation aligns with the Renewable Energy Act of 2008, which mandates that 1.5 percent of PCSO's net annual income be dedicated to the RETF to foster projects promoting clean energy technologies.

According to Philippines News Agency, DOE Undersecretary Rowena Guevara formally accepted the check on behalf of the department and expressed gratitude for PCSO's sustained support. 'This contribution is not just a financial boost -it's a step forward in expanding energy access, innovation, and sustainability,' she stated in a news release on Tuesday.

The DOE, through the RETF Committee, has been diligently collecting and managing these funds as per Department Circular No. DC2022-06-0018, which outlines guidelines for fund sourcing, accounting, and auditing. To ensure effective utilization of the RETF, the DOE has signed a memorandum of agreement with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), in collaboration with the Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD). This partnership aims to support research and development initiatives, including sustainable aviation fuel production, renewable energy mapping systems, and solar photovoltaic (PV) market assessments.

This milestone underscores the government's ongoing commitment to a cleaner, more secure energy future through collaboration, innovation, and strategic investments.