Manila: The Department of Energy (DOE) has awarded a one-year airborne geophysical survey contract for unexplored sedimentary basins in Mindanao to the United Kingdom-headquartered geophysical firm Metatek. This marks the initiation of a significant project aimed at enhancing the Philippines' energy security and unlocking its indigenous energy potential.

According to Philippines News Agency, the DOE formally awarded the Year 1-Phase 1 of the Philippine Gradiometry and Seismic Survey Project (PGSSP) to Metatek. The four-year program is set to generate modern subsurface data, which is expected to bolster energy security, mitigate exploration risks, and reveal the country's native energy resources.

The project seeks to improve the understanding of the country's subsurface geology, supporting evidence-based exploration for oil, natural gas, native hydrogen, and geothermal resources. This initiative aims to create a scientific foundation for long-term energy planning and investment in the country.

Under the contract, Metatek will survey airborne gradiometry data over approximately 40,000 square kilometers of the Agusan-Davao Basin and Davao Gulf. This effort constitutes the first stage of the project's two-year airborne survey program, which will eventually cover about 120,000 square kilometers. Following this, the project will advance to the acquisition, processing, and interpretation of 2D seismic data during Phase 2.

Energy Secretary Sharon Garin emphasized the importance of the project, stating, "Energy security begins with knowing what we have. Through this project, we are replacing guesswork with scientific data so we can responsibly develop our own energy resources and strengthen the country's long-term energy future." Garin added that the program will aid in reducing the Philippines' dependence on imported fuel and ensure more secure, reliable, and affordable domestic energy options.