Semirara Mining and Power Corp. (SMPC) says it is preparing a sustainable mining plan as it seeks to continue operating the Semirara coal resource in Antique, even as the government moves ahead with a bidding process for the site.
SMPC president COO, and chief sustainability officer Maria Cristina Gotianun said the company, which has operated the country’s largest coal resource for nearly 30 years, will present a plan aimed at maintaining steady production while supporting energy security and government needs.
She said SMPC remains confident in its experience in large-scale mining but is also prepared to adjust its investments and operations depending on future government decisions and industry opportunities.
The current contract for the Semirara coal operations is set to expire on July 14, 2027. The site has drawn interest from other firms, including San Miguel Corp., as the government considers next steps for its operation.
The Department of Energy has said SMPC may still join the bidding process instead of receiving an automatic extension, following a legal opinion from the Department of Justice. Energy officials have also noted SMPC’s advantage due to its long experience in coal mining.
Data from the DOE shows the Philippines consumed 46.67 million metric tons of coal in 2024 but produced only 15.92 million metric tons locally, relying heavily on imports. SMPC accounted for 14.92 million metric tons of domestic production, or about 93.7 percent of the total local output.
