JETRO and the Net Zero Carbon Alliance discuss how both organizations can help in decarbonizing the Philippine private sectorThe Japan External Trade Organization ( JETRO) recently led a high-impact business mission aimed at accelerating decarbonization efforts in the Philippines.

As part of this initiative, JETRO brought Japanese companies to engage in dialogues, explore investment opportunities and introduce cutting-edge decarbonization technologies and services tailored to the Philippine market.

Themed “Philippines’ Decarbonization: Initiatives, Challenges & Needs Faced by the Private Sector,” the forum brought together industry leaders, sustainability experts and key stakeholders to discuss the challenges and opportunities in the country’s transition to a net-zero future.

The Net Zero Carbon Alliance (NZCA), established by Energy Development Corporation (EDC), took center stage during the event. NZCA served as a collaborative platform to help businesses in the Philippines transition to a netzero future by providing guidance, technical expertise and a shared commitment to reducing carbon footprints. During the forum, NZCA highlighted corporate decarbonization strategies and the role of crosssector collaboration in accelerating climate action.

Drink Communications, Holcim Philippines and EDC presented their sustainability journeys, sharing their key challenges, innovations and opportunities for collaboration, notably where Japanese decarbonization technologies and solutions could support their path toward net zero.

“Achieving net zero is not just about reducing carbon emissions—it requires a fundamental shift in how businesses operate and collaborate,” said Atty. Allan Barcena, NZCA executive director and concurrent head of EDC’s corporate support functions. “Through partnerships like this with JETRO and its network of Japanese innovators, we can equip Philippine companies with the knowledge, technology and support they need to accelerate their decarbonization efforts.”

JETRO reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening trade and investment ties between Japan and the Philippines, particularly in sustainabilitydriven industries.

“Japan has long been at the forefront of innovation in decarbonization technologies, and we see great potential in collaborating with Philippine businesses to drive impactful climate action,” said Kazuo Nakamura, executive director of JETRO Manila. “This mission is an excellent opportunity to exchange insights, explore partnerships and bring real solutions to the table that can help accelerate the country’s transition to a low-carbon economy.”

Following the forum, JETRO hosted a networking reception, welcoming representatives from the Philippine private sector and key stakeholders.

(Story by:Frances Ariola)