The Department of Energy (DOE) is pushing forward with its hydrogen exploration efforts, conducting a survey in two Luzon provinces to gather geological and environmental data that will guide service contractors in their exploration activities.

In a briefing, DOE Energy Resource Development Bureau Director Demujin F. Antiporda said the agency had completed a reconnaissance survey in Zambales and Pangasinan that fall within predetermined contract areas offered in the 2024 Philippine Energy Bid Round.

The DOE's technical team also conducted field assessments at the Mangatarem Hot Spring in Pangasinan, and the Botolan Hot Spring and Nagsasa Seeps in Zambales.

“By identifying surface indicators such as hot springs and ophiolitic rock formations associated with natural hydrogen generation, the DOE aims to reduce exploration risks, streamline technical studies, and ensure alignment with safety and environmental standards,” Antiporda said.

The assessments will also help service contractors prioritize areas for hydrogen exploration.

Energy Officer-in-Charge Sharon S. Garin, meanwhile, explained that current hydrogen service contracts are awaiting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s approval before they can be awarded to contractors.

“They're very thorough with the review because they have requested a lot of additional documents,” Garin told reporters.

Antiporda added that they expect two contracts to be awarded, emphasizing the importance of this exploration as it is a new endeavor for the country.

“It’s the president who’s going to sign the contract, that’s why we have to check for everything. It’s a little critical because it’s a new contract,” Antiporda said.

According to Antiporda, contractors must conduct geological and geophysical studies to identify initial potential sites (sub-phase 1). This initial stage of exploration is estimated to cost nearly $6 million.

“Estimated for the sub-phase 1 for the two contracts is $5.7 million; succeeding, it depends on the results of the sub-phase 1 if they're going to pursue or not the exploration,” he explained.

Antiporda also shared that the United States and Singapore have expressed interest in the exploration. The DOE previously disclosed that several firms had submitted proposals for hydrogen exploration activities in Central Luzon.

This reconnaissance survey aligns with the DOE’s preparations for the first-ever training on native hydrogen exploration for local and international technical participants, set to begin this year.