NAPOCOR Signs Agreement with ClientEarth to Enhance Watershed Governance in the Philippines

The National Power Corporation (NAPOCOR) has signed a memorandum of understanding with environmental law charity ClientEarth to strengthen watershed governance and enhance the sustainability of hydropower resources in the Philippines. The agreement was formalized as part of a broader effort to improve natural resource management and support the country’s energy and environmental goals.

Under the partnership, NAPOCOR and ClientEarth will collaborate to develop guidelines, policies, and capacity‑building initiatives that promote effective watershed management—a critical factor for the long‑term viability of hydropower operations. Watersheds play a pivotal role in maintaining water availability and ecosystem health, which directly affects hydropower generation and energy security.

The joint initiative aims to create a framework that enhances transparency, accountability, and stakeholder engagement in watershed governance. This includes supporting local communities, government agencies, and energy stakeholders to adopt best practices in watershed protection, climate resilience planning, and sustainable land use. By embedding these principles into hydropower planning and operations, both organizations believe that future energy infrastructure will be more resilient to environmental and climatic pressures.

ClientEarth’s legal and policy expertise will assist NAPOCOR in strengthening regulatory compliance and aligning local watershed governance strategies with international environmental standards. The collaboration is expected to help address longstanding challenges such as deforestation, soil erosion, and water contamination, which can undermine hydropower performance and community well‑being.

For NAPOCOR, the partnership reflects a growing recognition that sustainable energy systems must account for environmental stewardship, particularly when managing natural assets like river basins. Hydropower remains a key component of the Philippines’ renewable energy mix, and improving watershed resilience is seen as essential to securing long‑term energy supplies while preserving ecosystems.

The agreement also includes knowledge exchange activities, technical workshops, and capacity‑building programs designed to empower local authorities and stakeholders. By fostering shared ownership over watershed governance, the initiative seeks to balance energy needs with environmental protection, community livelihoods, and climate adaptation.

Overall, the NAPOCOR–ClientEarth partnership highlights how collaboration between energy providers and environmental organizations can strengthen governance frameworks, enhance sustainability outcomes, and contribute to resilient renewable energy systems.