AMBASSADOR SIGNS MOU ON EARTH SCIENCE COOPERATION

UNCLAS MANILA 000783

SIPDIS

SIPDIS

DEPT FOR OES
DEPT FOR DINT/USGS/RESTON/BENTSI-ENCHILL

REF:SECSTATE 191837

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: ECON TPHY KSCA SENV RP
SUBJECT: AMBASSADOR SIGNS MOU ON EARTH SCIENCE COOPERATION



1. The Ambassador and Department of Energy Secretary Rafael Lotilla
signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on March 7, 2007 at the
Philippine Department of Energy. The U.S. Geological Survey
negotiated this MOU which provides the legal framework for
scientific and technical cooperation in earth sciences. (Reftel)


2. The MOU allows for cooperation and investigation in biology,
geography, water resources, and information systems. The MOU
formalizes ongoing technical consultations to capture methane gas
from Philippine coal mines and deliver it to the marketplace as
natural gas. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas which can lead to
global warming and mine explosions. Converting it to an energy
source diminishes dependence on petroleum, enhances mine safety, and
decreases a major source of climate change.


3. The Ambassador lauded the scientific cooperation between the
U.S. and the Philippines as an important aspect of our strong
partnership. Signing this MOU punctuates our joint commitment in
the U.S. and the Philippines to develop clean energy sources and
continue exchanges in other scientific and technical fields.

Kenney