President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. welcomed on Thursday a significant new proposal from Japan—the USD10‑billion Partnership on Wide Energy and Resources Resilience, also known as POWERR Asia. Consequently, this initiative aims to strengthen regional energy security and resilience, especially in light of ongoing global supply uncertainties fueled by rising tensions in the Middle East.
Marcos discussed this energy plan during a meeting with former Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. Currently, Kishida serves as the Supreme Adviser to the Parliamentary Association of the Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC). Notably, the discussion took place on the sidelines of Marcos’ state visit to Japan.
According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), the meeting primarily focused on enhancing Philippines-Japan cooperation in several key areas. These include renewable energy, low-carbon technologies, and long-term energy security—all under the broader AZEC framework.
Furthermore, the President expressed strong support for Japan’s POWERR Asia initiative. In particular, this program seeks to improve regional energy procurement, promote diversification, expand stockpiling capacity, and drive investments in energy efficiency across Asia.
The launch of this initiative comes at a critical time. Specifically, heightened concerns over global energy supply disruptions have emerged due to escalating tensions in the Middle East—a region that remains vital to worldwide oil supply chains.
In response to these challenges, Marcos has repeatedly called for greater international cooperation. As a result, he hopes to cushion the impact of geopolitical conflicts on energy prices, supply stability, and overall economic growth.
Moreover, the President also confirmed the Philippines’ readiness to co-chair the AZEC Leaders’ Summit. This event is scheduled to take place in Manila in November 2026. Furthermore, Marcos will co-chair the summit alongside Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi as part of the country’s ASEAN chairmanship.
