ENERGY POLICY AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM (EPOP) QUARTERLY PERFORMANCE REPORT YEAR 2 Q2 (Janu.ary- March 2016)

Established in 2014, EPOP is a collaborative effort between the University of the Philippines School of Economics (UPSE) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The program's primary objective is to support the Philippine government's efforts in developing a robust and sustainable energy policy framework. EPOP's research component is a key aspect of the program, focusing on generating evidence-based research studies to inform policy decisions. The program has conducted several research studies, including an analysis of the impact of higher-blended biodiesel on the Philippine coconut industry. This study aims to provide the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and the Department of Energy (DOE) with evidence on the economic and environmental implications of increasing the biodiesel blend from 2% to 5% and 10%, as mandated by the Biofuels Act of 2006 (RA 9367). EPOP's policy development component is another critical area of focus, with the program engaging in policy dialogues with key stakeholders, including NEDA and DOE. The program has organized a Coordinative Planning Workshop among DOE, the Department of Industry (DTI), and NEDA to assess and align the Philippine Energy Plan (PEP) with the DTI's Industry Roadmap and NEDA's Philippine Development Plan (PDP). Capacity building is also a significant aspect of EPOP, with the program providing training and capacity-building activities for students and faculty. The program has organized training courses on research tools and sessions with renowned experts, such as Prof. J.G. Williamson. Additionally, the program has launched the EPDP Lecture Series, which aims to build short- and long-term capacities by discussing issues and concerns in the country's electric power industry. EPOP's communications component is also noteworthy, with the program enhancing its webpage and resource center to provide stakeholders with easy access to information. The program has also established a strong social media presence, with updates on its platforms reaching a wider audience. The program's media relations efforts have resulted in the release of various media features, including print, online, and television stories, during and after the Conference. The program's gender component is also being addressed, with a gender learning session conducted for EPDP staff in March 2016. The program has also engaged a researcher on "Gender, Energy, and Weather Shocks" to provide specific suggestions on how to fully implement the plan. In terms of program management, EPOP has updated its Performance Monitoring and Evaluation Plan (PMEP) to capture additional and fine-tuned measures of progress. The program has also reaffirmed partnerships with newly appointed high officials of NEDA and DOE to ensure a smoother transition. The program management team has expanded from 18 members in FY2 Q1 to 23 members as of 31 March 2016, with 20 staff members, 20 fellows and experts, and 15 research assistants. EPOP has also completed the transfer to a new office located at Suite B2-003, Centennial Building, Concordia Albarracin Hall, E. Jacinto St. corner C.P. Garcia Avenue, UP Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines 1101. The program's new office space is equipped with modern facilities and amenities, providing a conducive environment for program activities. Overall, EPOP's second quarter performance report highlights the program's continued efforts in promoting sustainable energy development in the Philippines. The program's research, policy development, capacity building, communications, and gender components are all contributing to the achievement of its objectives.