LINGAYEN, PANGASINAN — The Department of Energy (DOE) has launched an exploration initiative in western Pangasinan and Zambales to search for “native hydrogen,” a naturally occurring clean energy source that could significantly reduce the Philippines’ reliance on imported fuels.
Also known as “white” or “natural” hydrogen, native hydrogen is found deep underground and does not require the energy-intensive manufacturing processes (like electrolysis) typically used to produce hydrogen fuel.
Key Exploration Details:
- Survey Schedule: An aerial survey is set to begin in the last week of February 2026 and will continue through May. The survey will collect magnetic and gravity data to analyze rock formations in the two provinces.
- Geological Indicators: Experts are focusing on ophiolite areas—fragments of ancient oceanic crust. Specifically, “ultramafic” rocks (greenish, iron-rich rocks like olivine) can produce hydrogen gas when they react with water over long periods.
- Local Hotspots: The Manleluag hot springs in Mangatarem, Pangasinan, are considered a primary indicator of potential hydrogen deposits in the region.
- Strategic Goal: This project is part of the Philippine Energy Plan, the government’s blueprint for identifying domestic energy resources to ensure long-term energy security.
Initial Stage
Andres Pangilinan Jr., a supervising science research specialist at the DOE, emphasized that the project is currently in the “initial stage of exploration.” While the DOE has already awarded service contracts for the study, any future extraction or testing would require additional provincial endorsements and regulatory clearances.
Pangasinan Vice Governor Mark Lambino noted that the current activities are limited to exploration and mapping to determine the true size and viability of the Zambales ophiolite as it extends into western Pangasinan.