Manila will once again take the spotlight in the global energy dialogue as it hosts POWERTRENDS 2025: The Energy Transition Showdown – Decrypting Risks, Rivalries and Opportunities in the Shifting Power Map on October 2–3, 2025 at the New World Makati Hotel.

Organized by Leverage International (Consultants), Inc., in cooperation with the Department of Energy, local and international supporting organizations,  the two-day conference brings together a distinguished lineup of policymakers, regulators, business executives, and innovators to address the urgent challenges facing the power sector amid geopolitical shifts, economic disruptions, and the accelerating push for clean energy.

“This year’s forum could not come at a more critical moment,” organizers noted, pointing to rising global energy demand, volatile fossil fuel markets, and the Philippines’ own transition to cleaner and more secure energy sources. “POWERTRENDS has always been about foresight and solutions, and this year’s discussions are more urgent than ever.”

The opening day will feature special messages from the Secretary of Energy, Swedish Ambassador to the Philippines Anna Ferry and keynote insights from Ms. Agamoni Ghosh , Managing Editor for Carbon Markets Pricing of S&amp;P Global Commodity Insights, who will discuss carbon pricing in APAC and its impact on decarbonization. Atty. Nancy Aurora Q. Fajardo, Executive Director of the Energy Regulatory Commission, will follow with ERC's vision for regulatory reform under the theme “Rules, Risks, and the Road Ahead.”

Sessions will confront pressing issues under the banner “In a New Era of Unpredictability: Critical Issues We Must Address.” Topics include rising and expanding energy demand—led by Mr. Michael O. Sinocruz, Director of the Department of Energy Policy and Planning Bureau— environmental risks, fossil fuel reliance, and legal challenges that could disrupt transition progress.

Later, Ms. Ruth Yu-Owen from the Management Association of the Philippines will moderate a panel on the multifaceted nature of energy transition, with participation from organizations including the Asian PV Industry Association, Philippine Solar and Storage Energy Alliance, Wind Energy Developers Association, Renewable Energy Association of the Philippines, and Center for Renewable Energy and Sustainable Energy.

A forward-looking session on the driving forces of energy transition will also take place, featuring Undersecretary Mylene C. Capongcol of the Department of Energy, Mr. Ronald Acio of GHD, Mr. Alexander Ablaza of PE2, Mr. Marc Louis L. Olap of DOE, and Mr. Edmund Araga of the Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines.

Day 2: Finance, Innovation, and Energy 4.0

The second day will pivot to future-focused themes, beginning with Mr. J.V. Emmanuel “Jocot” De Dios, President of Manila Water Company Inc., who will tackle the water-energy nexus—a critical but often overlooked dimension of sustainability.

A high-level Presidents and CEOs Panel will bring together leaders from BDO Capital, BPI Capital, the Securities and Exchange Commission, ING, and Green Tiger Markets to explore how green finance can accelerate the transition.

Discussions will also highlight Energy 4.0, where digitalization, emerging technologies, and new business models are reshaping the sector. The program will culminate in a showcase of cutting-edge Philippine innovations, including the Retail Aggregation Program, floating solar developments, and the country’s largest wind turbine generator project to date.

A Premier Forum for Energy Decision-Makers

Over the years, POWERTRENDS has earned its reputation as the premier energy conference in the Philippines, providing a vital platform for dialogue between government, industry, and academia. This year’s edition promises to be no exception, offering participants a chance to engage with key decision-makers, forge strategic partnerships, and gain insights into the future of global and local energy.

POWERTRENDS 2025 is expected to attract policymakers, investors, regulators, academics, and private sector leaders who share a stake in shaping a secure, sustainable, and forward-looking energy sector.

For participation inquiries, interested parties may contact the Secretariat at leverage@leverageinternational.com.

Manila will once again take the spotlight in the global energy dialogue as it hosts POWERTRENDS 2025: The Energy Transition Showdown – Decrypting Risks, Rivalries and Opportunities in the Shifting Power Map on October 2–3, 2025 at the New World Makati Hotel.Organized by Leverage International (Consultants), Inc., in cooperation with the Department of Energy, local and international supporting organizations, the two-day conference brings together a distinguished lineup of policymakers, regulators, business executives, and innovators to address the urgent challenges facing the power sector amid geopolitical shifts, economic disruptions, and the accelerating push for clean energy.A Pivotal Gathering“This year’s forum could not come at a more critical moment,” organizers noted, pointing to rising global energy demand, volatile fossil fuel markets, and the Philippines’ own transition to cleaner and more secure energy sources. “POWERTRENDS has always been about foresight and solutions, and this year’s discussions are more urgent than ever.”Day 1: Addressing Critical RisksThe opening day will feature special messages from the Secretary of Energy, Swedish Ambassador to the Philippines Anna Ferry and keynote insights from Ms. Agamoni Ghosh , Managing Editor for Carbon Markets Pricing of S&amp;P Global Commodity Insights, who will discuss carbon pricing in APAC and its impact on decarbonization. Atty. Nancy Aurora Q. Fajardo, Executive Director of the Energy Regulatory Commission, will follow with ERC's vision for regulatory reform under the theme “Rules, Risks, and the Road Ahead.”Sessions will confront pressing issues under the banner “In a New Era of Unpredictability: Critical Issues We Must Address.” Topics include rising and expanding energy demand—led by Mr. Michael O. Sinocruz, Director of the Department of Energy Policy and Planning Bureau— environmental risks, fossil fuel reliance, and legal challenges that could disrupt transition progress.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/9a857b44-2333-49f8-bb31-c31aaa890200/public" alt="Image" /> Later, Ms. Ruth Yu-Owen from the Management Association of the Philippines will moderate a panel on the multifaceted nature of energy transition, with participation from organizations including the Asian PV Industry Association, Philippine Solar and Storage Energy Alliance, Wind Energy Developers Association, Renewable Energy Association of the Philippines, and Center for Renewable Energy and Sustainable Energy.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/3959c21c-b61e-4e91-52c8-e78a49809300/public" alt="Image" /> A forward-looking session on the driving forces of energy transition will also take place, featuring Undersecretary Mylene C. Capongcol of the Department of Energy, Mr. Ronald Acio of GHD, Mr. Alexander Ablaza of PE2, Mr. Marc Louis L. Olap of DOE, and Mr. Edmund Araga of the Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/8f69c7ea-190d-4c76-0317-cacdb095d100/public" alt="Image" />Day 2: Finance, Innovation, and Energy 4.0The second day will pivot to future-focused themes, beginning with Mr. J.V. Emmanuel “Jocot” De Dios, President of Manila Water Company Inc., who will tackle the water-energy nexus—a critical but often overlooked dimension of sustainability.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/9008ce96-6d68-4742-457b-3e873bfa0600/public" alt="Image" />A high-level Presidents and CEOs Panel will bring together leaders from BDO Capital, BPI Capital, the Securities and Exchange Commission, ING, and Green Tiger Markets to explore how green finance can accelerate the transition.Discussions will also highlight Energy 4.0, where digitalization, emerging technologies, and new business models are reshaping the sector. The program will culminate in a showcase of cutting-edge Philippine innovations, including the Retail Aggregation Program, floating solar developments, and the country’s largest wind turbine generator project to date.A Premier Forum for Energy Decision-MakersOver the years, POWERTRENDS has earned its reputation as the premier energy conference in the Philippines, providing a vital platform for dialogue between government, industry, and academia. This year’s edition promises to be no exception, offering participants a chance to engage with key decision-makers, forge strategic partnerships, and gain insights into the future of global and local energy.POWERTRENDS 2025 is expected to attract policymakers, investors, regulators, academics, and private sector leaders who share a stake in shaping a secure, sustainable, and forward-looking energy sector.For participation inquiries, interested parties may contact the Secretariat at leverage@leverageinternational.com.

Electronic components / Semiconductors / Electrical equipment

Think tank

Electricity / Gas / Resources / Energy

STEM (Science, Tech, Engineering, Math)

Green technology

Global and Local Energy Leaders to Convene at POWERTRENDS 2025 in Manila

The international community is facing an evolving different threat to global peace and security. While the global security risk and threat in 2024 may be described as “unprecedented", 2025 may be described as “unconventional”. We see this in geopolitical tensions, gray zone warfare actions, AI arms race, rising insider threats, fragmented extremism and other developments. PROTECT 2025 conference on Doing Business Amidst New Threats will deep dive into these security challenges.

On March 14, 2025, the PROTECT International Conference Series on "Doing Business Amidst New Threats" will take place at the New World Makati Hotel. 

The event will feature prominent speakers, distinguished panelists, and thought leaders from various sectors as they discuss key issues affecting businesses today. From cyber threats and health security to climate change and cross-border crimes, the conference will address how these complex issues intersect and how businesses can navigate these volatile landscapes.

For more information on the forum, contact the Secretariat: leverage@leverageinternational.com

The Opening Address will be delivered by Secretary Eduardo Año, National Security Adviser to the National Security Council. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner, Jr. PA, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines will deliver the Keynote Address.

Digitalization And Cyber Threats will be featured in three panel discussions on Digital Identity, Cyber Threats, and The Legal Aspects of Cybercrime.

Digital technology has been changing the ways businesses are done and will continue to do so each year. Meantime, cyber threat actors are applying more advanced and sophisticated technologies to challenge cybersecurity. Understanding what is happening in the world now is therefore no longer an option but is an absolute necessity. The future is rapidly developing whether we like it or not. Adapting to change, if not done strategically can be disastrous. 

A Session on Human and Health Issues aims to provide an awareness of human health security and the interactions of key issues and events. Moderated by Dr. Kenneth Hartigan-Go, discussions will cross cut through health, education, and security.

Environmental/Climate Issues will be the subject of one session. The changing environment affects the business world. They impact on business practices from resources, to supply chain, to logistics, to energy sources, to customer behavior and demographics.

Cross-border phenomena concern both international and domestic security. Heightened concerns about transnational crimes are a consequence of advances in transportation and telecommunication. Many times, businesses become instruments or victims of such crimes.

A session on Transnational Issues will start with a presentation on Crime- Terror Nexus by Global Security Expert Prof. Rohan Gunaratna of the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. This will be followed by a Panel Discussion on cross-border phenomena.

The National Issues session will discuss two major security challenges confronting the Philippines today: state-sponsored cyber challenges and the country's relations with the US and China.

On March 14, 2025, the PROTECT International Conference Series on "Doing Business Amidst New Threats" will take place at the New World Makati Hotel. <img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/0b523cf6-8717-4604-982f-db7972ed8800/public" alt="Image" />The international community is facing an evolving different threat to global peace and security. While the global security risk and threat in 2024 may be described as “unprecedented", 2025 may be described as “unconventional”. We see this in geopolitical tensions, gray zone warfare actions, AI arms race, rising insider threats, fragmented extremism and other developments. PROTECT 2025 conference on Doing Business Amidst New Threats will deep dive into these security challenges.On March 14, 2025, the PROTECT International Conference Series on "Doing Business Amidst New Threats" will take place at the New World Makati Hotel. The event will feature prominent speakers, distinguished panelists, and thought leaders from various sectors as they discuss key issues affecting businesses today. From cyber threats and health security to climate change and cross-border crimes, the conference will address how these complex issues intersect and how businesses can navigate these volatile landscapes.For more information on the forum, contact the Secretariat: leverage@leverageinternational.comThe Opening Address will be delivered by Secretary Eduardo Año, National Security Adviser to the National Security Council. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner, Jr. PA, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines will deliver the Keynote Address.Digitalization And Cyber Threats will be featured in three panel discussions on Digital Identity, Cyber Threats, and The Legal Aspects of Cybercrime.Digital technology has been changing the ways businesses are done and will continue to do so each year. Meantime, cyber threat actors are applying more advanced and sophisticated technologies to challenge cybersecurity. Understanding what is happening in the world now is therefore no longer an option but is an absolute necessity. The future is rapidly developing whether we like it or not. Adapting to change, if not done strategically can be disastrous. A Session on Human and Health Issues aims to provide an awareness of human health security and the interactions of key issues and events. Moderated by Dr. Kenneth Hartigan-Go, discussions will cross cut through health, education, and security. Environmental/Climate Issues will be the subject of one session. The changing environment affects the business world. They impact on business practices from resources, to supply chain, to logistics, to energy sources, to customer behavior and demographics.Cross-border phenomena concern both international and domestic security. Heightened concerns about transnational crimes are a consequence of advances in transportation and telecommunication. Many times, businesses become instruments or victims of such crimes.A session on Transnational Issues will start with a presentation on Crime- Terror Nexus by Global Security Expert Prof. Rohan Gunaratna of the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. This will be followed by a Panel Discussion on cross-border phenomena.The National Issues session will discuss two major security challenges confronting the Philippines today: state-sponsored cyber challenges and the country's relations with the US and China.

Security

Event

Government offices / organizations

PROTECT 2025: Doing Business Amidst New Threats 

On September 28-29, the 15th PROTECT Conference series on "Doing Business Amidst New Threats" is set to convene local and global security  leaders for 2 days to discuss the most critical security issues facing both businesses and the nation. The conference will provide a platform for dialogue and collaboration on multifaceted challenges. National Security Advisor Eduardo Año is the Keynote Speaker.

The agenda of the conference encompasses an array of pressing concerns that demand collective action. Chief among these is the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, with  spotlight on how it impacts businesses across various industries. Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo will keynote this session entitled “Cyberspace - The New Battleground;                         Economic warfare is now a threat to National Security”.

The conference will also delve into the persistent biological threats amplified by recent global health crises, exploring strategies to fortify our preparedness. DOH Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa will keynote this session.

A key focus of the PROTECT 2023 conference is cross-border crimes. Criminal elements, empowered by sophisticated technologies, are increasingly targeting businesses. A panel of discussants will engage in comprehensive discussions and strategize on how to safeguard businesses from these evolving threats.

A session will dissect the intricate developments in the South China Sea region, offering insightful perspectives on their implications and potential consequences.

The final session on "Looking Ahead"  is a look at the very fast - developing future, in terms of technological developments, climate change and socio- geopolitical developments— inflexion points that may require unexpected changes in strategic planning for security and for business. All sectors of industry are encouraged to actively engage in this enlightening session, as it promises valuable insights into future challenges and opportunities.

In today's interconnected world, security is a paramount concern for individuals, businesses, and governments alike. For registration and additional information, please visit https://protect.leverageinternational.com or contact the PROTECT 2023 Secretariat at leverage@leverageinternational.com or call +(632) 8810-1389 or +(632) 8519-7578.

<h1>Security Leaders Convene for the 15th PROTECT Conference: "Doing Business Amidst New Threats"</h1>On September 28-29, the 15th PROTECT Conference series on "Doing Business Amidst New Threats" is set to convene local and global security leaders for 2 days to discuss the most critical security issues facing both businesses and the nation. The conference will provide a platform for dialogue and collaboration on multifaceted challenges. National Security Advisor Eduardo Año is the Keynote Speaker.The agenda of the conference encompasses an array of pressing concerns that demand collective action. Chief among these is the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, with spotlight on how it impacts businesses across various industries. Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo will keynote this session entitled “Cyberspace - The New Battleground; Economic warfare is now a threat to National Security”.The conference will also delve into the persistent biological threats amplified by recent global health crises, exploring strategies to fortify our preparedness. DOH Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa will keynote this session.A key focus of the PROTECT 2023 conference is cross-border crimes. Criminal elements, empowered by sophisticated technologies, are increasingly targeting businesses. A panel of discussants will engage in comprehensive discussions and strategize on how to safeguard businesses from these evolving threats.A session will dissect the intricate developments in the South China Sea region, offering insightful perspectives on their implications and potential consequences.The final session on "Looking Ahead" is a look at the very fast - developing future, in terms of technological developments, climate change and socio- geopolitical developments— inflexion points that may require unexpected changes in strategic planning for security and for business. All sectors of industry are encouraged to actively engage in this enlightening session, as it promises valuable insights into future challenges and opportunities.In today's interconnected world, security is a paramount concern for individuals, businesses, and governments alike. For registration and additional information, please visit https://protect.leverageinternational.com or contact the PROTECT 2023 Secretariat at leverage@leverageinternational.com or call +(632) 8810-1389 or +(632) 8519-7578.Leverage International (Consultants) Inc. is a Philippine company organized in 1975. It provides a comprehensive range of research, planning, technical and management services to public and private organizations. Recognizing that trade fairs and exhibitions are effective conduits for international trade, investments and technology transfer, Leverage organizes specialized trade exhibitions and business fora and conferences.

 Leverage collaborates with other international organizers for international exhibitions in Europe the Middle East and South Africa. It is the Philippine representative of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council for major shows in Hong Kong. Leverage also represents various international shows in Asia. 

Leverage is the organizer of major energy events. It has been organizing the ASEAN Energy Business Forum in the countries of ASEAN (Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, and Vietnam) in collaboration with the ASEAN Centre for Energy. This international conference and exhibition is held in conjunction with the annual ASEAN Ministers of Energy summit. In the Philippines, Leverage organizes the regular POWERTRENDS series and other important energy and energy-related events in cooperation with the Department of Energy, among which have been the POWERTRENDS Business Forum, the Natural Gas Summit, the Coal Business and Policy Forum and others.