The Department of Energy (DOE) has given the initial contract for the Philippine Gradiometry and Seismic Survey Project (PGSSP) to global geophysical services firm Metatek. Announced Tuesday, this covers the first year and first phase of the four-year national initiative running from 2026 to 2029.
Metatek will carry out airborne surveys to produce detailed subsurface data, starting with about 40,000 square kilometers of the Agusan-Davao Basin and Davao Gulf. The full airborne program will eventually cover 120,000 square kilometers, followed by seismic data work in the second phase.
The project aims to map potential oil, gas, native hydrogen and geothermal resources, cut exploration risks, and boost local energy supply. Energy Secretary Sharon Garin noted that replacing guesswork with scientific data will help develop domestic resources responsibly and reduce reliance on imported fuels. The information gathered will also support disaster planning, environmental work and mineral studies, while building investor confidence in the country’s energy sector.
