To help the Philippines address the climate crisis and promote sustainable practices, three Filipino scholars are headed to Japan under the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Knowledge Co-Creation Program (KCCP), it was learned recently.
In a news release, JICA Philippines said these scholars will enhance their expertise in sustainable resource engineering, business administration, and public policy, specifically in the fields of energy and mining. It said their training aligns with the Philippines’ commitment to transitioning to clean energy and responsibly managing mineral resources.
JICA, a long-time partner of the Philippines, is empowering Filipino researchers, educators, and government officials by offering scholarships to deepen their knowledge in sustainability and innovation.
Through programs like KCCP, JICA not only supports the Philippines’ green transformation efforts but also contributes to global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in advancing clean energy and sustainable mining.
Equipping the energy sector for a greener future
Two of the scholars, Jordan Ballaran from the Department of Energy (DOE) and Archibald Echano from the National Transmission Corporation (TransCo), will participate in JICA’s GX Human Resources Development for Energy Sector Program.
Like the four GX scholars who participated in the long-term KCCP by JICA before them, Ballaran and Echano aim to apply the insights from their research and contribute to the strengthening of the energy sector in the country.
Ballaran, who will pursue a Master’s in Public Policy at the National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS), expressed his desire to close the gap in data-driven policy analysis and decision-making within the DOE.
“As the energy sector evolves and becomes more complex than before…I want to contribute to the Department by advancing the needed skills to fill the gap with what I can learn from this program,” Ballaran said.
Echano, who will study Business Administration with a GX concentration at the International University of Japan, echoed this sentiment.
He said, “Data-driven policy changes that support the adoption of appropriate innovations, practices, and methodologies” are needed to enable his employer, TransCo, to more effectively carry out its mandate in support of the government’s energy goals.
Both scholars are set to play vital roles in the Philippine Energy Plan (PEP) 2023-2050, which prioritizes clean energy technologies and higher energy efficiency.
Championing sustainable mining
Meanwhile, Aeron Elvin C. Dela Cruz from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Mines and Geosciences Bureau (DENR-MGB) will study Sustainable Resource Engineering at Hokkaido University under JICA’s KIZUNA Program for Human Resources Development in the Mining Sector.
With plans to assess and mitigate groundwater pollution in small-scale mining (SSM), Dela Cruz is optimistic about the impact of his research.
“By applying advanced technologies, I aim to improve groundwater monitoring and management, creating a comprehensive groundwater quality database for SSM operations across the country,” Dela Cruz said.
Bridging cultures, advancing solutions
Beyond the technical skills, all three scholars are eager to immerse themselves in Japanese culture and strengthen ties between the two nations. They hope their newfound knowledge will not only transform their respective sectors but also inspire broader reforms that will benefit communities across the Philippines.
As the world faces mounting environmental challenges, the Philippines continues to invest in its future leaders. By equipping them with the skills and knowledge to tackle these issues head-on, the nation is making strides in green transformation and sustainable resource management.
