The Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities (ICSC) is helping the Municipality of Guiuan shift to renewable energy. The two groups held a four-day workshop from April 14 to 17.
This project is part of a new agreement with local leaders in Eastern Visayas. The town aims to create local energy ordinances. They also want to find new ways to fund solar panels and island microgrids.
Councilor Kinna Mae Kwan-Mabansag spoke for Mayor Annaliza Gonzales-Kwan during the event.
“Renewable energy is a no-regrets solution,” Kwan-Mabansag said. “Beyond reducing electricity costs, it enhances public services, supports livelihoods, improves public health, and strengthens local infrastructure. Decentralized solutions like rooftop solar and mini-grids can bridge energy access gaps, particularly in rural and underserved areas, ensuring that no community is left behind.”
The workshop taught local officials about energy policy and grid modernization. Experts from the ICSC and the Development Bank of the Philippines led the training. They covered project financing and how to build sustainable energy systems.
Arturo Tahup is the ICSC Director for Community Resilience. He noted the importance of local action during his opening remarks.
“We are at a point where we must transform crises into opportunities,” Tahup said. “The current energy situation presents real challenges, but it also opens pathways for local governments to lead.”
The workshop focused on providing 24/7 power to off-grid areas like Homonhon and Suluan. Officials explored solar, wind, and battery systems to reduce reliance on expensive diesel fuel.
Kwan-Mabansag explained why these changes matter for the local economy.
“Reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy is essential to local development,” Kwan-Mabansag said. “High power costs and frequent outages have already affected fisheries, water distribution, investment, and economic opportunities in Guiuan, and a Local Energy Plan will help the municipality identify priority RE projects, craft enabling policies and ordinances, and direct investments where they are needed most.”
This session was the first pilot program for the ICSC. The group plans to conduct similar workshops in Eastern Visayas, Northern Mindanao, and the Bicol Region soon.
