Energy & Mining
PCC warns MGen, PEMHI of heavier fines, possible loss of merger clearance
The Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) has warned MERALCO PowerGen Corp. (MGen) and Pilipinas Enterprise Management Holdings Inc. (PEMHI) that paying a P5.8-million penalty does not close the book on their merger compliance, with repeat violations potentially drawing heavier fines or even nullification of their conditional clearance.
DOE considers special GEA round to address El Niño impact
The Department of Energy (DOE) is exploring a special Green Energy Auction (GEA) round tailored to boost the country’s resilience against the severe effects of El Niño, Energy Secretary Sharon Garin confirmed on Monday. The proposed initiative would prioritize floating solar installations, which can also help reduce water loss from critical dams and reservoirs during periods of intense heat and drought.
Fifth‑Week Mixed Fuel Price Adjustments Loom: Gasoline Up, Diesel Down
Motorists, small businesses and households are bracing for a fifth consecutive week of split fuel price changes, with local fuel players projecting higher gasoline costs but cheaper diesel for the coming week. Leo Bellas, president of Jetti Petroleum, said Sunday that gasoline is seen rising by P2.00‑P2.20 per liter, while diesel may drop by P0.80‑P1.00 per liter. These estimated adjustments take into account the previous week’s Mean of Platts Singapore rates and average peso‑dollar exchange movements.
Japanese utility eyes solar projects for 10 PEZA locators
A Japanese power utility is sizing up a new Philippine market, and it is starting with something factories cannot do without: electricity.
MICC seeks return of ancestral lands to Indigenous control
The Mining Industry Coordinating Council (MICC) is seeking to restore Indigenous Peoples’ control over ancestral lands after mining companies complete their operations and rehabilitation obligations, putting post-mining land rights at the center of proposed reforms.
