The Department of Energy (DOE) has conducted an initial survey in Zambales and Pangasinan to support the country’s first steps into native hydrogen exploration. This is aligned with the anticipation of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s signing of the Philippines’ first service contracts for this emerging energy resource.

The surveyed areas fall within the predetermined contract sites offered under the 2024 Philippine Energy Bid Round. According to the DOE, the survey aims to provide baseline geological and environmental data to guide future service contractors in identifying potential sources of naturally occurring hydrogen, also known as native hydrogen.

The DOE’s technical team focused on sites with strong geological potential for hydrogen generation, which comes in the form of hot springs and ophiolitic rock formations. Field assessments were conducted at Mangatarem Hot Spring in Pangasinan, at Botolan Hot Spring and the Nagsasa Seeps in Zambales. These activities were carried out in collaboration with the Mines and Geosciences Bureau Regional Office No. 3, local government units, as well as the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Offices.

“By screening these areas, the survey will help guide service contractors in prioritizing locations for more comprehensive exploration. In essence, it lays the groundwork for where to focus efforts and what approaches to take in the pursuit of developing clean and sustainable energy sources,” said Energy Undersecretary Alessandro O. Sales.

The move is also part of the DOE’s preparations for the country’s first-ever training program on native hydrogen exploration. The course, which is scheduled later this year, is designed for both local and international technical participants.

“We also want to build the country’s technical capacity to explore and develop its own clean energy resources,” Sales added. “This means equipping our scientists, engineers, and technical personnel with the skills, tools, and training needed to conduct advanced research and fieldwork in emerging energy frontiers such as native hydrogen.”

The survey further supports ongoing research by the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI), which previously identified the town of San Antonio in Zambales as having the highest natural hydrogen gas seep ever recorded in the country. The Nagsasa seep alone emits over 800 tonnes of natural hydrogen annually, with indications of even larger reserves beneath the surface.

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