Press Statement on Prioritizing Renewable Energy Transition over Fossil Fuel Extraction
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Marshes
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Peatlands
On the Declaration of a State of National Energy Emergency Under Executive Order 110
Wetlands International Philippines expresses deep solidarity with the millions of Filipino families now bearing the brunt of the ongoing energy crisis. The surging prices of electricity, fuel, transportation, food, and other basic commodities have placed an immense burden on households, especially those already living in precarious economic conditions. We recognize the anxiety and hardship this crisis has created, and we stand with communities in calling for urgent, long-term, and sustainable solutions that ensure energy security without compromising the country’s natural heritage.
Prioritizing and Fast-tracking a Just and Sustainable Energy Transition
In light of the declaration of a State of National Energy Emergency under Executive Order 110, we urge the Philippine government to prioritize and fast-track its decisive shift toward renewable energy. While we acknowledge the need for immediate action to stabilize the energy sector, any exploration or exploitation of natural resources must proceed only after thorough environmental assessment and meaningful consultation with scientific and environmental experts. Our natural ecosystems—particularly our wetlands, forests, and coastal habitats—should never be sacrificed in the pursuit of short-term development gains.
We express deep concern over renewed efforts to pursue oil and gas exploration in the Liguasan Marsh, the largest swamp and marsh area in south-central Mindanao, Philippines, and one of the country’s most important and biodiverse wetland systems. While addressing the energy emergency is vital, the marsh’s ecological sensitivity requires the highest level of environmental scrutiny.
Wetlands International Philippines stresses that the Liguasan Marsh is an irreplaceable ecological system, and unregulated extraction risks irreversible damage: contamination of water sources, heightened flooding, loss of biodiversity, carbon emissions from ecosystem disturbance, and threats to the livelihoods and cultural heritage of surrounding communities.
“The Liguasan Marsh is not just a wetland—it is a lifeline for communities, wildlife, and our climate resilience. We cannot afford to damage an ecosystem that safeguards us from floods, supports fisheries, and stores vast amounts of carbon. A truly secure energy future is one that strengthens, not sacrifices, the natural systems that protect Filipino lives,” said Dr. Annadel Cabanban, Country Manager of Wetlands International Philippines.
The risks of unregulated resource extraction extend far beyond any single site—threatening the full breadth of the Philippines’ wetlands, forests, and coastal ecosystems. Degrading these systems erodes the essential services they provide to communities—including essential services such as clean water supply, food security, coastal protection, and biodiversity support. Equally urgent is the climate dimension: destroying natural ecosystems releases stored carbon into the atmosphere, further intensifying climate impacts and undermining the Philippines’ own commitments to resilience and emissions reduction. These are not abstract or distant concerns; they translate directly into threats to Filipino lives, livelihoods, and long-term safety.
Filipinos deserve a development path that is both responsible and sustainable—one that safeguards our ecosystems, honors our climate obligations, and secures the well-being of present and future generations.
In this moment of national urgency, we call on the Philippine government to prioritize a just and rapid transition to renewable energy. Fossil-fuel extraction in fragile ecosystems is not a sustainable or climate-resilient solution. The Philippines can draw from the success of neighboring Southeast Asian countries—such as Vietnam’s rapid solar expansion, Indonesia’s renewable microgrids, Thailand’s community-based biomass systems, and Malaysia’s competitive solar auctions—which demonstrate that energy security and environmental protection can advance together.
“Moving away from fossil fuels is not only an energy decision—it is a wetlands decision. Every wetland we protect strengthens our resilience against floods, droughts, and climate impacts that fossil fuels continue to worsen. By reducing our reliance on oil and investing in renewable energy, we allow vital wetlands like the Liguasan Marsh to keep doing what they do best: protect communities, sustain biodiversity, and stabilize our climate,” said Cabanban.
Guided by a long-term, future-oriented energy strategy—one that safeguards our wetlands, upholds scientific and community consultation, and aligns with our climate commitments— Wetlands International Philippines stands ready to work with government agencies such as the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR),[MK1] civil society partners, and scientific institutions to help shape a resilient and sustainable energy transition rooted in sound science and community welfare—one that protects both people and nature.
Let this moment be an opportunity to forge a future where energy security goes hand-in-hand with environmental protection, climate resilience, and the dignity and well-being of all Filipinos.