Manila:The Philippines is advocating for increased energy cooperation among Southeast Asian nations due to the disruptions associated with the Strait of Hormuz crisis, which are affecting global energy supplies and prices.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Philippines is hosting the 44th ASEAN Ministers on Energy Meeting and related gatherings in Manila from October 5 to 9. These events aim to address regional energy challenges.

Preparatory sessions for senior energy officials are scheduled for Monday and Tuesday, while ASEAN energy ministers and their counterparts from partner countries will convene on October 7 and 8.

Philippine Energy Secretary Sharon Garin emphasized that "energy security is a shared challenge," noting that global energy market disruptions could impact fuel availability, industries, and households. Manila aims to enhance petroleum supply preparedness, regional electricity connectivity, diversify energy sources, and improve energy efficiency.

These discussions occur as the Philippines holds the rotating ASEAN chairmanship and readies to host the bloc's annual leaders' summit in Manila later this month. The 48th ASEAN Summit and associated summits are set for October 27 to 29, gathering leaders from the 11-member bloc and their dialogue partners.