Ateneo holds first round table discussion for Evidence-Based Research Project at the House of Representatives

Last February 7, the first round table discussion under the partnership of Philippine House of Representatives and Ateneo de Manila University on the Evidence-based Research Project was conducted after the signing of the memorandum of agreement.

The round table discussed the high electricity prices in the country and was moderated by the Hon. Stella Luz A. Quimbo of Marikina’s 2 nd Congressional District. Dr. Majah- Leah Ravago of the Ateneo Department of Economics gave her presentation on “Why are electricity prices high in the Philippines?” The panel of reactors were Sec. Raphael P. M. Lotilla of the Department of Energy, Rowaldo del Mundo of UP Diliman College of Engineering, Mr. Emmanuel V. Rubio of Aboitiz Power, and Peter U of the University of Asia and the Pacific. Dr. Romulo Emmanuel Miral, Jr. – the Deputy Secretary General of CPBRD synthesized the discussion.

An exchange of discussion in finding a solution to the root cause of the problem with the height of electricity prices in the Philippines. It surfaces the takeaway on demand and supply, administrative constraints, interconnection, nuances in the electricity sector, procurement and contract management, and to set reasonable prices and accessibility on reliable electricity and clean energy.

Moreover, the Congresspersons in attendance foresee the effectiveness of the round table discussion and look forward to the upcoming sessions.

Watch Dr. Ravago’s presentation here.