The Philippines has secured Indonesia’s assurance that coal exports to the country will remain stable despite Jakarta’s planned changes to its export governance framework, the Department of Energy (DOE) said on Friday.
The assurance came after Energy Secretary Sharon Garin held high-level meetings with Indonesian officials in Jakarta to discuss the Southeast Asian nation’s new export policies covering coal and other strategic natural resources.
During talks with Indonesia’s Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs, the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (MEMR), and state-owned PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (PT DSI), Philippine officials underscored Indonesia’s importance as the country’s largest supplier of imported coal, which fuels a significant portion of the Philippines’ power generation.
Indonesian officials clarified that the proposed export regulations are intended to strengthen transparency and traceability in the coal trade, not restrict exports. PT DSI also assured the Philippine delegation that existing commercial contracts would remain in effect, provided no irregularities are found, with initial implementation focusing on documentation and data consolidation.
The DOE welcomed the clarification, saying it provides greater certainty as the country continues to manage its fuel procurement strategies.
“Every partnership we build is about protecting the everyday lives of Filipinos. This commitment from Indonesia strengthens our efforts to keep our energy supply secure—helping hospitals care for patients, schools stay open, businesses create jobs, and families keep the lights on at home,” Garin said.
Aside from coal, the Philippines and Indonesia agreed to pursue broader energy cooperation, including the development of liquefied natural gas (LNG) solutions for off-grid islands and renewable energy projects. The two countries also reviewed the progress of the ASEAN Power Grid initiative in preparation for the 44th ASEAN Ministers on Energy Meeting scheduled for October.
