October 22, 2025 — The Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) and the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) are exploring the development of a pioneering academic program that aims to strengthen the country’s leadership and technical capacity in energy governance, regulation, and finance.

In a recent exploratory meeting, the DAP delegation met with UPLB officials to discuss the design of a specialized learning program intended to enhance the competencies of policymakers, regulators, executives, and researchers in the energy sector.

The proposed program is envisioned to build on the framework of the Master in Public Management (MPM) and introduce a dedicated specialization that responds to emerging challenges in the energy landscape. DAP Graduate School Dean Dr. Lizan E. Perante-Calina noted that this initiative could also reinvigorate ongoing discussions with the Department of Energy (DOE) toward developing a full-fledged MPM track focused on energy governance.

DAP Acting President Dr. Leocadio S. Sebastian emphasized the importance of designing flexible learning pathways to make the program accessible to a wider range of professionals.

“By offering modular and micro-credential formats, we can reach both public and private sector professionals who play key roles in shaping the country’s energy future,” Dr. Sebastian said.

As discussions progress, DAP will continue to work closely with UPLB and key institutional partners to shape a program that bridges academic excellence and practical application—advancing DAP’s mandate as a national think tank committed to public sector innovation and sustainable development.

The initiative also aligns with the government’s efforts under the Philippine Development Plan 2023–2028 to promote reliable, affordable, and clean energy—a vital enabler of inclusive economic growth and national resilience.