PRESS STATEMENT

The global issue on climate change and its impact to the environment has played in the fore. It cuts   across all sectors of the society and impacts on the most vulnerable and poor sector of our society particularly in the developing countries, like the Philippines. Countries dependent on imported fossil fuel for energy has already taken its toll in their respective economy. Renewable and alternative sources of energy have become viable and environment friendly technology. Lately, growing awareness on climate change mitigation and adaptation has begun to bring into the consciousness of many people.

For the past ten years or so, Yamog has ventured into promotion, development, and dissemination of environment-friendly, alternative and socially accepted community-based renewable energy systems such as micro hydro, solar pumping and solar power systems in remote, off-grid and isolated upland communities in Mindanao. All of these projects are engaged in environmental protection measures through watershed management and rehabilitation.

In this opportune time, Yamog Renewable Energy Development Group, Inc together with the Mindanao Renewable Energy Network will hold a Mindanao-wide Conference on Community –based Renewable Energy Systems on March 12-13, 2009 at the Mindanao Training Resource Center (MTRC), Circumferential Road, Bajada, Davao City. The conference will gather fifty participants from the NGO’s, PO’s, ( coming from the provinces of Bukidnon, Lanao del Norte, Agusan del Norte, Dinagat Islands, North Cotabato, South Cotabato, Davao Oriental, Davao City), LGU’s, academe, funding institutions and private sector involved in renewable energy systems in Mindanao. The conference objectives are as follows:

1. to share community experiences, success stories and best practices on community-based renewable energy systems,

2. to learn more about impacts on climate change and be updated on adaptation and mitigation measures to achieve greater community sustainable development,

3. to formulate and develop sustainability measures among the different partner organizations,

4. to promote and enhance linkages and networking among the different stakeholders.

The conference is made possible through the financial support from MISEREOR, UNDP-GEF Small Grants Programme and New Zealand Aid.