In a recent meeting at the Department of Energy in the Philippines, Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla welcomed a delegation led by Secretary-General Toshimitsu Motegi of Japan's Liberal Democratic Party to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two nations in the energy sector. The partnership is built on mutual respect, shared values, and common goals, focusing on enhancing collaboration in areas like the Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) to combat climate change and promote sustainable development. Both countries recognize the importance of AZEC in advancing decarbonization efforts and discussing solutions. Japan's expertise in cleaner technologies, including hydrogen, is seen as beneficial for the Philippines, which aims to transition from coal power. The collaboration involves various initiatives like infrastructure enhancements, capacity-building efforts, transition financing, access to clean technologies, and renewable energy development. The partnership also extends to projects like the Gas Policy Development Project and the approval of a hydropower potential site inventory proposal. Japan's involvement in the Philippine energy sector through investments and support from agencies like the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) further strengthens the collaboration. This meeting signifies a significant step in the enduring partnership between the Philippines and Japan as they work together towards a sustainable and energy-secure future.