Marcos: PH to turn to Malampaya, hydrogen, nuclear in energy push
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is looking at natural gas, hydrogen and possibly nuclear power as part of the country's wider energy mix, citing the need for more sources of electricity amid continuing concerns over supply and power costs.
In his fifth State of the Nation Address on Monday, July 27, Marcos said drilling operations at the Malampaya gas field have resumed for the first time in eight years after its service contract was extended until 2039.
The renewed drilling confirmed an untapped reserve of 222 billion cubic feet of natural gas, which Marcos described as a "national treasure" that could keep the country's premier gas field producing until 2034.
The volume is enough to power 1.6 million households for the next eight years, according to Marcos.
The president also said the government has awarded 14 petroleum service contracts across Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, the most ever awarded under a single president, according to him.
Four of these contracts are for hydrogen, which Marcos said could serve as backup fuel for power plants, particularly in off-grid areas.
Two of the new petroleum service contracts are also co-managed with the Bangsamoro government, a first in Philippine history, Marcos said.
Marcos said the country has started building hydrogen power plants, with several projects in pre-development in Marinduque, Masbate, Zamboanga Sibugay, Basilan and other sites.
The president presented hydrogen as one of the government's emerging options to support power generation, especially in areas that are not connected to the main grid.
Revisiting nuclear power
Marcos also said it may be time for the Philippines to revisit nuclear energy production.
"We will ensure it is safe. We will ensure the good benefits of nuclear energy will be explained properly to the public," Marcos said.
He noted that the country already uses nuclear technology in medicine, agriculture, water filtration and plastic upcycling.
The president said he is confident that nuclear energy can help shore up the country's energy security and bring down electricity costs.
His remarks on revisiting nuclear energy production drew louder-than-usual applause from lawmakers and government officials. — with Cristina Chi, Hannah Santos
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