Sharon Garin Appointed as Secretary of the Department of Energy

MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang announced on July 10, 2025, the appointment of Sharon Garin as the new Secretary of the Department of Energy (DOE), succeeding Raphael Lotilla. The announcement was made by Palace Press Officer Claire Castro during a press briefing, highlighting Garin's extensive background in energy policy and legislative experience.

Garin, a lawyer and Certified Public Accountant (CPA), previously served as a multi-term representative for Iloilo and held the position of undersecretary at the DOE. Castro emphasized that Garin's appointment aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s initiative to enhance the accessibility, reliability, and sustainability of energy resources for the Filipino populace.

The leadership transition within the DOE follows a broader directive from President Marcos, which requested all Cabinet members to submit courtesy resignations. Lotilla’s new role will be at the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), marking a significant shift in the administration’s approach to resource management.

Experts in energy policy have lauded Garin's appointment. Dr. James L. Tan, a professor at the University of the Philippines School of Economics, stated, "Garin's experience in legislative processes will be crucial for advancing energy reforms necessary for the country’s sustainable development." Meanwhile, Dr. Maria Santos, a leading energy analyst at the Philippine Institute for Development Studies, remarked, "Her deep understanding of the energy sector will aid in addressing the pressing challenges faced by our energy infrastructure."

The Philippine energy sector has been experiencing significant challenges, including power shortages and rising energy costs. The country’s energy consumption is projected to increase by 5% annually, according to the International Energy Agency's 2023 report, necessitating urgent reforms in energy policy and infrastructure.

In light of these developments, Garin’s immediate priorities are expected to involve enhancing renewable energy initiatives, improving energy efficiency, and ensuring equitable access to energy across the archipelago. The urgency of these issues has been underscored by the Department of Energy’s recent findings, which indicate that approximately 20% of Filipino households still lack access to reliable electricity.

As Garin takes the helm of the DOE, her previous legislative experience and her commitment to public service will be crucial in navigating the complexities of the energy landscape in the Philippines. The success of her tenure will likely hinge on her ability to collaborate effectively with stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector partners, and international organizations, in crafting policies that promote sustainable energy growth while addressing the immediate needs of the population.

In conclusion, the appointment of Sharon Garin as Secretary of the Department of Energy represents a pivotal moment for the Philippines as it seeks to modernize its energy sector and meet the demands of a growing economy. Her leadership will be closely monitored as the nation embarks on this critical journey towards energy sustainability and resilience.