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Electrify: Key takeaways from a panel discussion on renewable energy and social justice

On November 29, the “Electrify: Powering the Future with Good Energy” forum brought together youth leaders, climate advocates, and renewable energy experts in a crucial conversation about the Philippines’ energy transition. Here are the key takeaways from the event, with insights from each speaker and moderator.

Hya Bendaña – The livelihoods behind renewable energy

Hya Bendaña, a solar advocate, reminded the audience that the discussion around renewable energy should not just focus on environmental benefits but also the livelihoods of those involved. She emphasized that any energy transition must ensure that the people driving and benefiting from renewable energy are also considered in the conversation. This perspective highlights the need for solutions that not only support the planet but also empower local communities and workers.

Krishna Ariola – A critical window for change

Krishna Ariola, a passionate climate activist, framed the current moment as a pivotal one in history. "We are at a critical window where the whole world is saying there's something wrong with the systems that we have," she said.

We have a crisis now, we have a window, we can see where to go, but do we have the courage to go there?

Krishna’s words sparked a call for courage and decisive action in the fight for a just energy transition and a more sustainable future.

Cheng Pagulayan – The intersectionality of climate justice

Cheng Pagulayan, climate justice portfolio manager at Oxfam Pilipinas, highlighted the deep connection between climate action and social justice. Cheng often says, "What is equality on a dead planet?" urging the audience to see that the fight for a better environment cannot be separated from the fight for labor rights, LGBTQ+ rights, women’s rights, and more. Cheng also pointed out that for countries like the Philippines, the climate crisis is no longer a distant threat—it is an ongoing reality, and addressing it requires systemic, intersectional solutions.

Aya Tamayo of Good Energy and Jen Horn of Pagbubuo– Reconnecting to values and community

Aya Tamayo and Jen Horn, co-moderators of the discussion, offered a reflective view on the root causes of today’s societal challenges. Aya emphasized the importance of sharing personal stories when discussing environmental issues. "When you share the stories of real people, you’re showing that this fight isn’t just for you or your group of friends, but for real communities and many more individuals out there who are affected by it," she explained.

Jen expanded on this point by highlighting the disconnection many people feel from both each other and the planet.

It’s important that we see people as 'community' or 'connection' and not an 'other.' When we’re disconnected, we’ll always just have money or economic growth on our mind, and forget what’s needed for a meaningful life.

Together, Aya and Jen emphasized the need to foster connection and understanding in the pursuit of meaningful, systemic change.

The real impact of solar energy

A panel discussion also touched on the tangible benefits of solar energy, with one speaker highlighting how solar panels can generate enough power to not only meet household needs but also provide excess energy that can be sold back to the grid. This practical demonstration of solar power’s benefits helps paint a clear picture of how renewable energy can positively impact people’s lives, both environmentally and economically.

As the forum came to a close, the speakers and moderators left the audience with a powerful call to action. The transition to renewable energy, along with a commitment to social justice, is not just a dream—it is a tangible opportunity. The event reinforced the importance of collaboration, courage, and shared responsibility in ensuring that the energy transition is fair, inclusive, and beneficial to all.

About the Organizers: Good Energy

Good Energy is a youth-driven organization championing a just energy transition in the Philippines. They empower young people to lead the way towards a cleaner, more equitable energy future, with initiatives aimed at driving change through renewable energy and climate justice advocacy.

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