Mandy Romero Joins DOE as the Youngest Assistant Secretary
MANDY ROMERO — The 25-year-old solar energy entrepreneur and policy advocate was recognized as the youngest appointed Assistant Secretary in the Philippines after being selected to serve at the Department of Energy (DOE).
Her oath-taking, led by Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin on Tuesday, December 2, marks an important step in the country’s efforts to expand clean and sustainable energy solutions. Her appointment reflects the government’s growing focus on addressing climate change, strengthening the nation’s energy security, and supporting economic development.
Romero expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity, describing public service as the greatest honor of her life. She shared that she is inspired to work with the DOE’s dedicated workforce to help create long-term, responsible solutions to the country’s energy needs.
Before joining the DOE, Romero built an impressive background in both academics and community service. She graduated magna cum laude from Georgetown University with a degree in Health Care Management and Policy, and a minor in Justice and Peace Studies. Her passion for service began early—according to her interviews, she was exposed to community work in Payatas when she was only nine years old. That experience shaped her desire to help Filipinos and encouraged her to pursue a career centered on public service.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Romero collaborated with various groups to organize mental health workshops for displaced jeepney drivers and farmers. She also helped lead relief operations for communities affected by Typhoon Ulysses. Her humanitarian and advocacy work later led to her being appointed as an official youth representative at the 68th Session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women, where she discussed issues such as education, poverty, access to electricity in remote areas, and food security.
Romero is also the founder of Captil1 Solar Energy, a company focused on building solar power plants across the country to promote clean and sustainable energy. Beyond her advocacy work, she maintains an active lifestyle. Her team, the Capital1 Power Spikers, currently competes in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL). She also shared that she once trained as part of the Philippine Muay Thai national team, crediting her sports-oriented family for her dedication, discipline, and competitive spirit.