The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has intensified its monitoring patrols at the Malampaya gas field in Palawan to secure the country’s energy lifeline after the discovery of a new source of natural gas in the area.

No less than General Romeo Brawner Jr., AFP Chief of Staff, personally led an aerial patrol at the Malampaya gas field, which is being secured by the Joint Task Force Malampaya, on Friday, Jan. 23.

The AFP said that Brawner assessed the security posture and operational readiness of forces tasked to protect the Malampaya Natural Gas Power Project, one of the country’s most critical energy infrastructures in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

“The visit underscored the AFP’s unwavering commitment to protecting strategic national assets that are vital to the Philippines’ energy security and economic stability,” Col. Xerxes Trinidad, AFP public affairs office chief, said.

Military officials briefed Brawner on existing security measures at Malampaya included ongoing maritime and air patrol operations, as well as inter-agency coordination to ensure the uninterrupted and safe operation of the facility.

During the inspection, Brawner stressed the need for sustained vigilance and professionalism among personnel securing offshore resources.

He also commended the members of Joint Task Force Malampaya for their “dedication and readiness in carrying out their mission.”

The AFP said it will continue to intensify its presence and monitoring operations in key strategic areas as part of its broader mandate to defend national sovereignty, uphold maritime rights, and protect critical infrastructure essential to national development.

Earlier this week, President Marcos announced the discovery of a new gas reservoir at Malampaya East 1, marking the first major find in more than ten years.

The reservoir lies around five kilometers east of the existing Malampaya field and is estimated to contain about 98 billion cubic feet of gas.

The government said the new reserve could produce nearly 14 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity each year which is enough to power about 5.7 million homes annually.

Initial well tests recorded gas flow of 60 million cubic feet per day, showing production potential similar to the original Malampaya wells.

Marcos had said that the discovery is expected to boost the country’s domestic gas supply and improve long-term energy security. He added that condensate was also found during drilling, which could help stabilize the national power supply.

Malampaya East 1 serves as the first accomplishment under the Malampaya Phase 4 Drilling Campaign, which also covers the Camago and Bagong Pag-asa wells.

The development was carried out by the SC 38 Consortium led by Prime Energy Resources Development B.V., in partnership with UC38, PNOC Exploration Corporation, and Prime Oil and Gas Inc.

The PCG had also assured the public of the swift and strategic deployment of its assets at the Malampaya gas field to strengthen maritime security and protect critical energy facilities.