Joey Ocon is a scientist, educator, entrepreneur, and sustainability practitioner bridging science, policy, and innovation to advance a just and regenerative energy future in Southeast Asia. Joey’s portfolio spans multiple domains. He currently serves as Principal Strategist for Energy Transition (Southeast Asia) at the global sustainability organization Forum for the Future, contributing to the Responsible Energy Initiative–Philippines (REI-Philippines) and other energy programs.

REI convenes energy stakeholders to co-create strategies for a future that is inclusive, locally grounded, and environmentally responsible. Joey co-founded Nascent Batteries, the ASEAN region’s first sodium-ion battery start-up, where he serves as President and CTO. Nascent pioneers advanced battery R&D and locally manufactured battery packs for mobility and stationary storage, offering a rare deep-tech story in the Philippine innovation ecosystem.

A scholar and multi-awarded scientist with over 150 international publications, Joey maintains an academic role as Professor and Research Fellow at De La Salle University Manila, where he teaches part-time and continues to mentor future Filipino scientists. He also co-convenes the independent think tank Center for Energy Research and Policy (CERP), which advances a resilient energy sector through inclusive governance practices. His previous consultancy work spans battery manufacturing strategy, hybrid renewable energy systems, energy access, decarbonization, and policy innovation, with engagements involving local and international organizations.

Joey earned his PhD in Environmental Science and Engineering from GIST (South Korea), and BS and MS degrees in Chemical Engineering from UP Diliman, where he previously served as a Full Professor.