Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin led a site visit to Semirara Island in Caluya, Antique, highlighting how energy development is directly shaping community welfare alongside national power supply.

Garin, joined by Undersecretary Alessandro O. Sales, Assistant Director Demujin F. Antiporda, and Atty. Rowena Joyce A. Delos Santos, inspected the operations of Semirara Mining and Power Corporation (SMPC), the country’s largest coal producer. The delegation underwent safety induction before visiting the coal production area and key facilities.

In meetings with local officials, discussions focused on SMPC’s education, healthcare, and livelihood programs for Caluya residents, along with potential new initiatives to generate long-term opportunities.

“Every policy we pursue must translate into tangible benefits for our people,” Garin said. “Our goal is to build an energy sector that not only fuels the economy but also nurtures communities.”

The Department of Energy (DOE) said the visit reflects ongoing efforts to balance national energy priorities with grassroots needs, working with stakeholders to secure a reliable, sustainable, and inclusive energy future.

What do you think of DOE’s approach—should community impact carry more weight in energy development projects? 

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Photo credit: DOE