The Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) is considering joining the Department of Energy’s (DOE) planned auction for the rights to operate the Semirara Island coal resource in Antique.
Chairman Manuel Pangilinan said Meralco’s power generation unit, Meralco Power Gen Corp. (MGen), is looking at the potential benefits of the resource, including securing local coal supply and reducing shipping costs. MGen currently operates six coal-fired plants with a combined capacity of 1,379 megawatts.
The DOE earlier confirmed it will move forward with preparations for the bidding, as the current coal operating contract of Semirara Mining and Power Corp. (SMPC), part of the Consunji Group, will expire on July 14, 2027. While SMPC can participate in the auction, it cannot receive another contract extension, according to a Department of Justiceopinion cited by Energy Secretary Sharon Garin. SMPC is seen as a likely front-runner due to its experience in coal mining.
The move comes amid rising coal demand in the Philippines. DOE data show the country consumed 46.67 million metric tons of coal in 2024, but local production accounted for only 15.92 million metric tons, leaving the rest dependent on imports.
Analysts say Meralco’s potential participation signals growing interest from power companies in securing domestic coal amid supply pressures and rising energy costs.
