Last September 26. Samahan ng Mamamayan Zone One Tondo Inc. – Sm Zoto Inc. launched #RenewableEnergyForAll in Navotas – a project that seeks to strengthen the capacity of and collaboration within and among urban poor communities to advance renewable energy, including through the installation of a rooftop solar PV system in Tanza and the creation of a training center for people’s renewable energy.

Amid skyrocketing power rates, this assertion to move forward affordable and reliable people’s RE is extremely timely. The launch was also held on the anniversary of Typhoon Ondoy and in the aftermath of Typhoon Karding – sending the message of resistance against continued dependence on fossil fuel power as we confront the climate crisis.

Tanza will also be the site of a proposed 6,492 megawatt (MW) Navotas LNG Power Plant backed by San Miguel Electric Corporation. If the project is approved, the communities in nearby areas will be severely impacted by pollution and destruction, while consumers are forced to confront higher prices of electricity from LNG.

This project is made possible by the generosity of the New Zealand Embassy – Manila, Philippines, who joined SM ZOTO, CEED, and community members in celebrating the start of this meaningful effort.