THE Department of Energy (DoE) on Friday signed a memorandum of agreement (MoA) with the University of the Philippines Statistical Center Research Foundation Inc. (UPSCRFI) for the third phase of the Gas Policy Development Project (GPDP3).

The MoA was signed by DoE Secretary Raphael Lotilla and UPSCRFI Executive Director Joseph Ryan Lansangan.

The GPDP aims to provide technical assistance to the DoE in implementing Department Circular 2024-01-0007, which sets the codes of standard, rules and regulations governing the country's downstream natural gas industry.

"As we enter the third phase, I am optimistic that we will achieve more sustained programs. The DoE stands ready to provide all necessary support to ensure its successful implementation," said Lotilla.

The agreement states both parties will focus on the development of codes of standard practice for liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities, specifically in the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of the facilities for the following — LNG storage and regasification; terminal transmission and distribution system; and third-party access.

The MoA also involves the conduct of research to facilitate LNG market development and technology and strengthen the capacity of agency regulators.

Both the DoE and UP said the collaboration underscores the government's thrust of establishing a regulatory framework, building the capacity of regulators, and providing evidence-based data and technical inputs for policy-making and sectoral planning related to downstream natural gas industry.