The Department of Energy (DOE) said Wednesday it conducted a reconnaissance survey for hydrogen exploration and development in Zambales and Pangasinan, areas included in the 2024 Philippine Energy Bid Round.
The DOE’s technical team focused on sites with strong geological potential, conducting field assessments at the Mangatarem Hot Spring in Pangasinan, and the Botolan Hot Spring and Nagsasa Seeps in Zambales.
These two areas, endorsed to the Office of the President for award to service contractors, are among nine identified for potential hydrogen development.
The nine areas pinpointed by the DOE are Zambales; Casiguran in Aurora province; Angat in Bulacan; Bicol-Eastern Mindanao; Western Bicol; Palawan; Antique; Zamboanga-Sulu; and Central Mindanao.
“By screening these areas, the survey will help guide service contractors in prioritizing locations for more comprehensive exploration,” said DOE Undersecretary Alessandro Sales.
“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,” Sales said.
The initial survey provides baseline geological and environmental data to help service contractors with their exploration activities.
By identifying surface indicators such as hot springs and ophiolitic rock formations linked to natural hydrogen generation, the DOE aims to lower exploration risks, streamline technical studies and ensure adherence to safety and environmental standards.
The proactive approach aims for a more informed, efficient and science-based method to native hydrogen exploration once service contracts are finalized.
These efforts were carried out in close coordination with the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Regional Office No. 3, the respective Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Offices (MENROs), and concerned Local Government Units (LGUs).
The reconnaissance survey also forms part of the DOE’s preparations for the country’s first-ever training on native hydrogen exploration, a specialized course for local and international technical participants scheduled for later this year.
“We also want to build the country’s technical capacity to explore and develop its own clean energy resources,” Sales said.
“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,” Sales said.
The survey supports ongoing research by the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI), which identified San Antonio in Zambales as having the highest natural hydrogen gas seep ever recorded. The PNRI study found that the Nagsasa seep in San Antonio, Zambales, emits over 800 tonnes of natural hydrogen annually, with the potential for even greater subsurface reserves.
