Palace okay for Philippines’ first hydrogen deals keenly awaited
President Marcos at the 46th Association of Southeast Asian Nations Summit in Kuala Lumpur on May 26, 2025. (Photo by Jam STA ROSA / AFP)
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Energy (DOE) is still awaiting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s green light for the country’s first native hydrogen service contracts, an official said.
Demujin Antiporda, assistant director at the DOE-Energy Resource Development Bureau, said they were still coordinating with the Office of the President regarding the requirements.
Asked when they expect to receive the signed contracts, DOE officer-in-charge Sharon Garin could not provide a timeline, noting that the Palace was “very thorough with the review.”
These contracts cover two predetermined areas in Zambales and Pangasinan that were part of the 2024 Philippine Bid Round held last year.
The two locations cover an estimated 134,096 hectares and 96,439 hectares, respectively.
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Alternative fuel
According to the DOE, hydrogen is a “clean alternative fuel that can be used as an energy carrier to store, move and deliver energy from other sources.”
As this develops, the DOE conducted an initial survey in the two provinces, meant to provide developers with baseline geological and environmental data for their exploration activities.
“By screening these areas, the survey will help guide service contractors in prioritizing locations for more comprehensive exploration,” Antiporda said.
“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,” the official added.
Antiporda said this is part of the agency’s target to “reduce exploration risks, streamline technical studies and ensure alignment with safety and environmental standards.”
