The Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) focuses its new recommendations to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on enhancing energy affordability and securing a reliable water supply across the country. In line with its mission to support the government in fostering sustainable growth, PSAC outlined a series of initiatives designed to improve infrastructure and, ultimately, the quality of life for every Filipino family.
During the meeting, PSAC highlighted the urgent need to re-evaluate the Philippine Energy Plan, placing a primary focus on affordability while also considering energy autarky, or self-sufficiency, as a supporting strategy. PSAC also recommended revising capacity auctions, including the Green Energy Auction Program (GEAP), and aligning Power Supply Procurement Plans to drive down electricity costs for consumers.
On the matter of water security, PSAC emphasized the importance of implementing flood control basins as part of the government’s Infrastructure Flagship Projects, particularly concentrating on the 88 rivers identified by the Integrated Water Resources Management Office (IWRMO). The Council also urged the government to expedite the privatization of water utilities in other metropolitan centers facing water supply challenges, following the successful model in Metro Manila. This move would improve water distribution systems, reduce non-revenue water losses, and streamline permit processing.
“These initiatives are crucial to driving progress and uplifting communities. By focusing on affordable energy and reliable water supply, we aim to create a foundation for long-term development that benefits every Filipino. The private sector stands ready to collaborate with the government by sharing expertise, resources, and innovative solutions to make these goals a reality,” said Sabin Aboitiz, PSAC lead convenor and Aboitiz Group president and CEO.
PSAC called for the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System Regulatory Office (MWSS-RO) to closely monitor the Enhanced Lifeline Program to provide greater discounts to low-income consumers, particularly those who are marginalized or beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). Further, PSAC proposed that the IWRMO study the feasibility of improving water service levels in the provinces, balancing investment needs with efforts to expand coverage and enhance service quality.
President Marcos expressed his gratitude for PSAC’s commitment and insights, recognizing the importance of these recommendations in achieving the administration’s goals of accessible, affordable, and reliable essential services.
“I sat down with the Private Sector Advisory Council [PSAC] to discuss opportunities to improve the lives of every Filipino family through critical infrastructure that will lower electricity rates, ensure a reliable water supply, and enhance flood protection,” said President Marcos on his Instagram post. “I am grateful to our private sector partners who are committed to helping us achieve these goals.”
PSAC remains committed to partnering with the government to deliver on its promise of sustainable and inclusive development, reinforcing its role as a catalyst for positive change in the Philippines.
About Private Sector Advisory Council
The Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) has been established strategically by President Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr to create and strengthen innovative new synergies between the private and public sectors. PSAC comprises business leaders and experts across six main sectoral groups — Agriculture, Digital Infrastructure, Jobs, Healthcare, Build-Build-Build, and Tourism.
The Council helps the government deliver on its commitment to transform the Philippine economy by implementing robust infrastructure programs, creating more jobs and attracting more investors, digitizing processes, and improving agricultural productivity through the recalibration of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), jumpstart Philippine Tourism and ensuring an equitable, sustainable, and inclusive business landscape for Filipinos.
PSAC will continuously recommend modern policy development to the government and report regularly to the President to provide feedback and adjust recommendations based on what is happening on the ground.
Follow PSAC on Twitter to get the latest news as it breaks: https://twitter.com/PSAC_PH.
