Marcos hopes Singapore can aid in diversifying PH energy sector

President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr. on Wednesday expressed hope that Singapore could help the Philippines in ''diversifying'' its energy sector. 

During a joint press statement with Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Marcos said the Philippines seeks further achievements in its renewable energy sector.

''Acknowledging how Singapore will remain a major partner in our aspiration to diversify our energy sources, I encouraged Singapore to increase its investments in the renewable energy sector as part of our forward-looking bilateral agenda,'' he said. 

Marcos emphasized that Singapore remains one of the Philippines' most important investors. 

''I expressed my hope that we will remain an important destination for these investments, and that the collaboration of our private sectors, both in the Philippines and in the region, will further deepen and adapt to global developments,'' he said. 

When it comes to climate change mitigation, the two nations reaffirmed their commitment to collaborate on a carbon credits mechanism in line with Article 6.2 of the Paris Agreement through commencing negotiations on an implementing arrangement.

''It is hoped that the early completion of the negotiations will result in climate-friendly actions and increased investments in related sectors, thereby creating meaningful and sustainable livelihood and business opportunities for both Filipinos and Singaporeans alike, while producing good sustainability outcomes  for our local communities,'' Marcos said. 

In the health sector, Marcos is also hoping to have a health cooperation agreement with Singapore, aside from the facilitation of training and exchanges between their health experts.

Meanwhile, through the Digital Leadership Program between the Civil Service Commission and the National University of Singapore, Marcos is optimistic in accelerating digital leadership and transformation across the civil service.

Wong is in the Philippines for an official visit until tomorrow, June 5. — BM, GMA Integrated News