Article by:
Joann Villanueva
MANILA – Fuel supply remains ample for Semirara Mining and Power Corporation (SMPC) despite concerns stemming from the Middle East crisis, with the company also exploring alternative sources to ensure continued adequacy, an official said Monday.
In an online briefing, SMPC President Maria Cristina Gotianun said the ongoing conflict in the Middle East “is putting upward pressure across the economy, including our operations which rely on fuel.”
She added, however, that “while developments remain fluid, we have a fuel supply coming and continuously exploring alternative fuel sources with lower premiums.”
“At the same time, fuel efficiency programs are also implemented to conserve fuel, such as the company's offtake from DMCI powers wind energy to reduce diesel consumption in our operations,” she added.
Gotianun also reaffirmed the firm’s intent to continue vying for the mining area in Semirara Island in Caluya, Antique, despite not receiving a response from the Department of Energy, which has announced plans to bid out 10 coal blocks.
The company holds a 50-year coal operating contract for Semirara until July 14, 2027, and produces around 97 percent of the country’s domestic coal supply.
Gotianun noted that the company has decades of experience in coal mining and the necessary expertise.
“We're putting forward a mine plan that keeps production steady, supports energy security, and continues delivering for the government,” Gotianun said.
“At the same time, we remain prudent. Given the more supportive direction for responsible mining, we have the flexibility to redeploy our capabilities, people, and capital across other opportunities in the sector where we can contribute to create value,” she added.
Gotianun also reported during the briefing that coal production rose 24 percent to 19.9 million metric tons in 2025, marking the fourth consecutive year of record growth. (PNA)
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