Philippine Government Outlines Measures to Maintain Stable Power Supply
The Philippine government has outlined a series of measures aimed at maintaining a stable electricity supply and moderating power prices as global fuel supply pressures continue to affect energy markets. According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), the Department of Energy (DOE) is coordinating several interventions, including adjustments in the electricity market, accelerating renewable energy projects, and expanding domestic energy sources. The steps are intended to ensure reliable power availability while reducing exposure to volatile international fuel prices.
Speaking at a Palace press briefing, PCO Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the initiatives are part of broader government efforts to strengthen energy security and support economic stability. Details of the measures were reported through the Philippine Information Agency, outlining actions already underway through the DOE and related agencies.
Adjustments to Electricity Market and Energy Mix
The DOE has issued departmental guidelines designed to allow electricity generation from lower-cost fuels while expanding available power sources. As part of these measures, the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has temporarily suspended the electricity spot market to enable greater use of coal, renewable energy and natural gas from the Malampaya field.
The government is also working with renewable energy developers to accelerate project completion. According to DOE figures cited during the briefing, approximately 500 megawatts of renewable capacity have already been completed, with another 500 megawatts currently under development.
These efforts are intended to stabilise electricity prices while increasing supply resilience. Energy security has also been linked to broader national infrastructure and innovation priorities, as reflected in initiatives supporting digital innovation across infrastructure and energy sectors in the Philippines.
Support for Power Supply in Island Communities
Ensuring reliable power in remote and island communities remains a key concern. Castro said the government is exploring the procurement of lower-cost, lower-grade diesel for use by the National Power Corporation (NAPOCOR), which supplies electricity to off-grid areas. The move aims to prevent power shortages and blackouts in communities that rely on diesel-powered generation.
Officials also emphasised the importance of renewable energy providers fulfilling their contractual obligations to contribute additional generation capacity. Strengthening power reliability is increasingly important as the country expands digital infrastructure and connectivity, including initiatives such as the Philippines’ National Digital Connectivity Plan, which depends on stable energy systems to support digital services and economic activity.
New Gas Output from Camago-3 Well
In a related development, President Ferdinand R Marcos Jr announced the successful drilling and testing of the Camago-3 well, a domestic gas resource expected to support the country’s power supply. In a video message shared on social media, the President said the well can produce up to 60 million standard cubic feet of gas per day.
The additional output is expected to extend the operational life of the Malampaya gas field, a major source of natural gas for electricity generation in the Philippines. Extending the field’s lifespan could help ensure a steadier supply of energy while reducing the impact of fluctuating global fuel prices on Filipino consumers.
