The United Kingdom (UK) has a big message for the Philippines:
“You need more clean energy—before it’s too late!”
Right now, the world is feeling the heat from two major conflicts:
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The war in Ukraine
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The fight between Israel and Iran
And because of those fights, the price of oil is going way up — making electricity and gas more expensive in many countries, including the Philippines.
That’s why George Freeman, a UK official who works with the Philippines, came to Manila with a clear warning:
“If you rely too much on oil and coal, you’ll always be in danger when global problems happen.”
💡 Why the Philippines Needs More Energy Choices
Most of the electricity in the Philippines today comes from oil and coal. But here’s the problem:
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Oil is mostly imported from other countries.
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When war or crisis happens—like now—oil prices go crazy.
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This means electricity bills go up, businesses struggle, and people suffer.
Freeman said:
“If the Philippines had more renewables like solar, wind, geothermal, or ocean power, it would be safer, cheaper, and cleaner.”
🌱 What Are Renewables, and Why Do They Matter?
Renewable energy means using nature—like sunlight, wind, and heat from the Earth—to make electricity. These don’t run out and don’t pollute the planet.
Freeman explained that going green can:
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Make energy more stable and affordable.
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Help fight global warming.
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Create new jobs for Filipinos in safe, clean industries.
“Instead of working in dirty coal mines,” he said,
“Filipinos can work in clean energy jobs, building a better future.”
💰 Big Investments Coming From the UK
Freeman said the UK is ready to invest big money in helping the Philippines grow its green energy sector.
Here’s what’s already happening:
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UK just approved £5 billion (that’s over ₱360 billion) to support big infrastructure projects in the Philippines.
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They are also giving extra support for defense and security, showing their strong friendship with the Philippines.
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The UK also promised to keep 99% of Philippine exports tariff-free, meaning Filipino products can be sold in Britain without big taxes.
“We are committed. We’re serious. And we’re here to help,” Freeman said.
🤔 What About Trump’s Tariffs?
When asked about U.S. President Donald Trump’s big taxes on goods from China and its allies, Freeman said:
“It’s too early to tell how this will affect everyone.”
But he made one thing clear:
The UK won’t copy that move — they’ll keep trading fairly with the Philippines.
🛑 Bottom Line: The Clock Is Ticking
The world is changing fast.
🌍 Conflicts can raise prices.
🔥 Pollution is heating the planet.
💡 But the Philippines has a chance to be stronger, safer, and cleaner if it switches to renewable energy now.
Will the Philippines take the leap toward a greener future? Or will it wait until prices and problems get even worse?
Stay tuned. 🌿
