Makati: Slovenia is looking to develop its energy cooperation with the Philippines through a framework that helps translate research into cost-effective and resilient energy infrastructure. Under its 2030 strategy for scientific research, Slovenia seeks to accelerate cooperation with states through knowledge transfer and innovation by introducing the 'science-to-business' model.
According to Philippines News Agency, speaking at a forum in Makati, Slovenian Ambassador to the Philippines Smiljana Knez said Ljubljana aims to push for increased science-focused investments and 'better connection between academia and private business,' citing energy efficiency as a national security priority. "Slovenia stands ready to cooperate closely with the Philippines through technology sharing, academic collaboration, and public-private partnerships (PPP)," she said.
At the same forum, Slovenia's Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Igor Papic, shared how they invest in science and research with the belief that energy resilience 'in the face of geopolitical disruption is a crucial aspect of our security and sustainable development.' "The transfer of this knowledge into practice, especially into the economy, is essential for the development and prosperity of our country. This government is fully aware of that. That is why we have made significant investment in both knowledge and its application," he said.
Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum, for his part, echoed the call for deeper collaboration, noting it was now 'more urgent than ever' to diversify and strengthen the country's energy needs to ensure national security. Since 2011, he said, the Department of Science and Technology has supported 71 projects worth PHP652 million to advance solar, wind, ocean and waste-to-energy technologies. "Reinforcing our resilience to climate and disaster threats is no longer optional. It is a necessity. We anticipate collaboration and solutions for both countries to prosper," he said.
The conference was organized by the Stratbase Institute in partnership with the Slovenian Embassy in the Philippines. In his remarks, Stratbase chief operating officer Rupert Paul Manhit said Slovenia's cooperation framework could provide huge opportunity for the Philippines as it positions itself as a hub for green metals and renewable energy. "We are entering this period with important advantages. We have in place the right policy direction, with stronger support for renewable energy, infrastructure development and digital transformation," he said.
