The Philippine Geothermal Production Company, Inc. (PGPC) has begun drilling operations at Mt. Malinao in Albay through its newly commissioned Pioneer 1 rig, signifying a major step forward in its expansion of geothermal energy exploration across Luzon.
Mt. Malinao is one of several new concession areas being developed by PGPC, with the potential to deliver up to 300 megawatts (MW) of additional baseload renewable energy to the Luzon grid in the coming years. PGPC currently operates two geothermal steam fields in Tiwi, Albay and Mak-Ban in the provinces of Batangas and Laguna, collectively supplying up to 300 MW.
“This project represents the type of innovation that our energy market needs in its ability to make meaningful contributions to our renewable energy supply,” said Department of Energy Undersecretary Rowena Guevarra during the opening ceremony marking the start of operations.
Guevarra highlighted the importance of PGPC’s continued expansion beyond its long-serving Tiwi geothermal field. “PGPC’s … expanding beyond the long-serving Tiwi geothermal field shows your determination and forward-thinking approach,” she said, urging “power developers to… emulate PGPC’s lead in exploring new geothermal resources across the country.” She concluded: “The Department of Energy congratulates PGPC on this momentous occasion … may this rig blessing mark the beginning of a successful exploration campaign and a new chapter in Philippine geothermal development.”
A blessing ceremony was held on site, attended by representatives from the Department of Energy, the Board of Investments, the local government of Malinao, and top executives from PGPC and SM Investments Corporation. Notable attendees included PGPC Chairman and SM Investments President and CEO Frederic C. DyBuncio, PGPC President Napoleon L. Saporsantos, Jr., SM Investments Independent Director and former Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon M. Lopez, and Malinao Mayor Sheryl Capus-Bilo.
Pioneer 1 is the company’s designated drilling and exploration rig for its Mt. Malinao project, which is envisioned as a key contributor to the country’s renewable energy transition.
PGPC has been a pioneer in geothermal energy in Southeast Asia, supplying geothermal steam to client power plants all the way back from 1979.
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