The Philippine Independent Power Producers Association, Inc. (PIPPA) said that it expects the comeback of Raphael Perpetuo “Popo” Lotilla as secretary of the Department of Energy (DoE) to bring much-need reforms in the power sector.,“We recognize his invaluable leadership and decades-long contribution to the Philippine energy industry. PIPPA believes that his experience and in-depth knowledge of the energy sector makes him the best candidate in this crucial time,” the group said in a statement on Wednesday.,“Our member companies extend our hand in cooperation to Mr. Lotilla, in our joint objective to build greater energy security, affordability, and sustainability for the Filipino people.”,PIPPA is a professional organization composed of independent power producers (IPPs).,Senator Sherwin Gatchalian also pointed out that Lotilla has proven legal and technical knowledge in addressing pressing issues in the sector.,“Most importantly, he has unquestionable integrity that is required of a leader of a vital government department. He is a good choice and I am confident that he will be able to cascade the benefits of the energy sector to all Filipinos – cheap electricity rates, stable power supply, and a clean future,” he said in a separate statement on Tuesday.,Meanwhile, former energy secretary Vince Pérez and current chairman of Alternergy Group of Companies, said Lotilla “is an excellent choice.”,“He is most qualified, is very familiar with the challenges facing the energy sector. Furthermore, he is a man of integrity and and a true professional. We look forward to working with him during this challenging period of energy transition,” Pérez said.,Lotilla was picked by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to replace former energy secretary Alfonso G. Cusi. Other names — including former Energy Regulatory Commission chairperson Agnes Devanadera, former congressman Juan Miguel Arroyo, Sagip party-list Representative Rodante Marcoleta, and Energy Undersecretary Benito Ranque — previously floated for the position.,Lotilla served as energy secretary from 2005 to 2007 under the Arroyo administration.,He is highly knowledgeable about the energy sector because he also served as president of the Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management (PSALM) Corporation and chairman of Philippine National Oil Co., ,