MANILA — The Department of Energy (DOE) launched the competitive auction for 18 coal blocks across three sites, including the high-profile Semirara Island, currently operated by Consunji-led Semirara Mining and Power Corp. (SMPC).

The 2026 Philippine Conventional Energy Contracting Program (PCECP) Pre-Determined Areas (PDAs) Bid Round for Coal allows qualified companies to undertake coal resource development under new Coal Operating Contracts (COCs), subject to legal, technical, and financial evaluation.

The DOE is offering three PDAs covering a total of 18,000 hectares: 10 blocks on Semirara Island (10,000 ha), three blocks in Amulung and Iguig, Cagayan (3,000 ha), and five blocks in Benito Soliven, Naguilian, and Cauayan, Isabela (5,000 ha). Semirara’s current COC expires in July 2027, and no extension has been issued.

Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said the bidding emphasizes capability over price. Applicants must submit comprehensive five-year work programs covering development, safety, social development, environmental protection, and mine rehabilitation, along with financial and technical documentation.

A Pre-Submission Conference is set for March 19, and application documents are due by April 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.