MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Department of Energy (DOE) is currently awaiting final approval from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for the nation's inaugural native hydrogen service contracts. This critical step will greenlight exploration activities in two significant predetermined areas, marking a substantial stride towards diversifying the country's energy portfolio with clean alternative fuels.

Demujin Antiporda, Assistant Director at the DOE-Energy Resource Development Bureau, confirmed ongoing coordination with the Office of the President to finalize the necessary requirements. While DOE Officer-in-Charge Sharon Garin could not provide a specific timeline for the President's signature, she emphasized the Palace's thorough review process, underscoring the strategic importance of these pioneering agreements.

The contracts pertain to two distinct locations identified during the 2024 Philippine Bid Round, held last year. These areas, situated in Zambales and Pangasinan, encompass approximately 134,096 hectares and 96,439 hectares, respectively. The scale of these concessions highlights the government's ambition to unlock substantial domestic hydrogen potential.

Hydogen, recognized by the DOE as a clean alternative fuel, serves as a versatile energy carrier capable of storing, moving, and delivering energy from various sources. Its development is central to global decarbonization efforts and the Philippines' long-term energy security.

In preparation for the impending exploration, the DOE has already undertaken initial geological surveys in both provinces. These preliminary studies are designed to furnish developers with essential baseline geological and environmental data, thereby mitigating early-stage exploration risks. Antiporda stated that this screening process will guide service contractors in prioritizing specific locations for more comprehensive and focused exploration activities.

“In essence, it lays the groundwork for work-focused efforts and what approaches to take in the pursuit of developing clean and sustainable energy resources,” Antiporda elaborated. This proactive approach by the DOE is integral to its broader objective of reducing exploration uncertainties, streamlining technical studies, and ensuring strict adherence to safety and environmental standards throughout the development process. The move is expected to attract significant foreign interest, positioning the Philippines as an emerging player in the global hydrogen economy.