The Department of Energy (DOE) has confirmed that Koloma Inc. has begun formal surveys and studies to verify if commercially viable amounts of naturally occurring hydrogen exist in Pangasinan. Koloma holds Service Contract No. 84 covering a hydrogen resource area in the province, and also operates the adjacent Service Contract No. 83 that spans parts of Zambales.
Energy Secretary Sharon Garin led the official launch of activities in Bugallon, Pangasinan last week, following earlier aerial inspections and geological sampling at the Los Fuegos Eternos natural gas seep area in May. Initial results from those tests showed promising signs of hydrogen presence. Between March and early June, the company completed over 27,976 line kilometers of aerial gravity and magnetic surveys to map underground structures, with data processing still ongoing. Work has now shifted to a 132.6-line kilometer two-dimensional seismic survey, which will produce detailed images of subsurface rock formations to pinpoint potential hydrogen-bearing zones and guide future work.
Unlike standard hydrogen made through industrial methods, native hydrogen forms naturally underground. If confirmed in sufficient quantities, it could become a new energy source to support the country’s shift to cleaner power, including use as a co-firing fuel to make natural gas combustion more efficient. Secretary Garin noted this marks the first time such a comprehensive exploration for native hydrogen is being carried out anywhere in the world. Results from the current mapping work are expected in six months, with a clearer picture of the area’s potential due by the end of this year.
Energy undersecretary Alessandro Sales explained that drilling is planned as the next major step, targeted for late this year or the first quarter of 2027, though actual plans will depend on survey findings. The company has seven years to complete its exploration program, with estimated total investment reaching $8 million to $9 million for both service contracts. Officials stressed that the project remains in its early stages, and it is still unknown whether deposits will be large enough for commercial use.
