A high-level delegation from the Department of Energy (DOE), led by Undersecretary Alessandro Sales, participated in the prestigious South East Asia Petroleum Exploration (SEAPEX) Regional Convention 2026.
The event serves as the premier gathering for industry titans, geoscientists, and energy stakeholders across the Asia-Pacific to chart the future of regional energy security and resource exploration.
During the convention, Undersecretary Sales emphasized the Philippines’ commitment to revitalizing its upstream oil and gas sector. The delegation engaged in a series of strategic dialogues focused on:
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Modernizing Exploration: Leveraging advanced seismic imaging and AI-driven data analytics to de-risk high-potential basins.
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Regional Synergy: Strengthening bilateral partnerships to ensure a stable and interconnected energy market in Southeast Asia.
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Responsible Development: Integrating ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) frameworks into the lifecycle of resource extraction. “Our participation in SEAPEX 2026 underscores the Department’s proactive stance in attracting world-class developers,” said Undersecretary Alessandro Sales. “By bridging the gap between cutting-edge geoscience and investor-friendly policies, we are positioning the Philippines as a competitive hub for energy exploration in the region.”
The DOE delegation participated in several technical sessions and ministerial panels, focusing on three core pillars:
| Pillar | Focus Area |
| Technological Innovation | Exploring Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) integration within existing petroleum frameworks. |
| Geoscience Excellence | Presenting updated regional geological surveys to highlight untapped offshore opportunities. |
| Regulatory Reform | Showcasing streamlined permitting processes designed to accelerate the exploration-to-production timeline. |
The SEAPEX Convention provided a critical platform for the DOE to exchange knowledge with its ASEAN counterparts. The discussions highlighted the necessity of a unified approach to energy transitions, acknowledging that traditional petroleum resources remain a vital “bridge” toward a more diversified energy mix.
The DOE remains committed to fostering an environment where innovation thrives, ensuring that the nation’s energy resources are developed efficiently, sustainably, and for the maximum benefit of the Filipino people.
