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Manila Bulletin devider Business devider Trade & Industry devider Meralco signals interest in Semirara coal block ahead of planned government auction

Meralco signals interest in Semirara coal block ahead of planned government auction

Published Feb 17, 2026 10:44 am
PLDT Chairman, President, and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan
PLDT Chairman, President, and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan

The Semirara coal block is set to open for new operators, with Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) signaling strong interest in securing a concession.

In an ambush interview, Meralco Chairperson Manuel V. Pangilinan said the company, particularly its power generation arm Meralco PowerGen Corp. (MGen), may participate in a government auction for a new concession on Semirara Island.

According to Pangilinan, the coal operations in the area may be within MGen’s “radar” and could allow the company to maximize benefits if it takes over coal operations.

The Meralco chief added that securing a stake in Semirara’s coal block could support the company’s future power supply needs by helping localize its supply chain and reduce freight costs.

Last week, the Department of Energy (DOE) said it had denied the motion to extend the operating life of Consunji-led Semirara Mining and Power Corp. (SMPC) in its Antique coal field, leaving the company one year before its 50-year coal operating contract (COC) expires.

The contract began in 1977 and was granted a 15-year extension in 2012. The company’s concession is set to end on July 14, 2027.

The DOE said it acted upon the opinion of the Department of Justice (DOJ) and will therefore schedule an auction sometime this year.

Energy Secretary Sharon Garin noted that SMPC will still have an advantage in the bidding process given its long-standing expertise in the area, particularly since the block involves complex engineering operations.

SMPC said on Monday, Feb. 16, that it has yet to receive a formal letter from the agency regarding the rejection of its request to extend its operational life on the island.

“Management believes that SMPC’s decades of experience in managing complex engineering projects, coupled with its established operations, technical expertise, and extensive equipment fleet developed through its long-standing operations in Semirara Island, provide a strong competitive advantage, which we have communicated to the DOE,” it said.

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