DOE backs Malampaya gas field's Phase 4 operations

The Department of Energy (DOE) is supporting the ongoing drilling campaign for the Malampaya natural gas field, which has begun its Phase 4 (MP4) operations.

The MP4 drilling campaign, spearheaded by Prime Energy (formerly SC 38 Consortium) with the 7th generation Noble Viking drillship, aims to boost production from the country's sole natural gas source.

DOE Officer-in-Charge Sharon S. Garin expressed confidence that the campaign will enhance energy security and reduce the Philippines' dependence on imported fuels like coal, diesel, and LNG.

The Noble Viking drillship arrived at the Bagong Pag-asa Drill Site offshore Palawan and will undertake the drilling of three wells, Camago-3, Malampaya East-1, and Bagong Pag-asa 1, with the expectation of producing the first gas by the fourth quarter of 2026.

The DOE has designated MP4 as an Energy Project of National Significance to expedite its development.