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SM’s PGPC Secures Leyte Geothermal Contract: 25 MW Project to Double Capacity by 2033

SM’s PGPC Wins Leyte Geothermal Contract: A Game-Changer for Philippine Renewable Energy By Robert Buluma – June 8, 2026 In a landmark move that reinforces the Philippines’ position as a global leader in geothermal energy, Philippine Geothermal Production Co. Inc. (PGPC) — a wholly owned subsidiary of the Sy family’s SM Investments Corp. (SMIC) — has secured a government contract to develop a significant geothermal resource in Leyte. The award, confirmed by Energy Secretary Sharon Garin on June 1, 2026, under the Department of Energy (DOE) ’s fifth open and competitive selection process (OCSP5), marks a pivotal expansion for PGPC. The company won the rights to Pre-determined Area (PDA) 2, known as the Southern Leyte Geothermal Project, which has a potential capacity of 25 megawatts (MW) . This article dives deep into the implications of this contract, the strategic importance of geothermal energy for the Philippines, and what it means for the future of renewable energy (RE) in the...

Jollibee Group Switches Philippine Commissaries to 99% Renewable Energy – Powered by Geothermal from First Gen!

The Jollibee Group , the powerhouse behind the iconic fast-food chain loved across the Philippines and beyond, has taken a massive step toward sustainability. By: Robert Buluma In a groundbreaking move announced in early February 2026, the company has shifted 99% of the electricity needs for its Philippine commissaries to renewable geothermal power supplied by First Gen Corporation. This isn't just a small tweak,it's a major leap in reducing environmental impact while keeping the joy flowing through millions of meals daily. What Are Commissaries and Why Do They Matter? Commissaries are the large-scale food production and distribution hubs where Jollibee prepares ingredients, sauces, patties, and other essentials before sending them to thousands of stores. These facilities consume substantial energy for refrigeration, cooking, processing, and logistics—making them prime targets for greener upgrades. By going renewable here, Jollibee tackles emissions at the source of its supply...

First Gen Renews 10-MW Geothermal Energy Supply to Unilever Philippines

First Gen and Unilever Philippines Renew Renewable Energy Partnership By: Robert Buluma In a strong move toward sustainability, First Gen Corporation will continue to supply 10 megawatts (MW) of renewable energy (RE) to seven of Unilever Philippines’ facilities. This renewed partnership underscores both companies’ commitment to operational efficiency and environmental responsibility. The agreement covers Unilever’s production and distribution sites across Metro Manila, Cavite, Laguna, and Batangas . These facilities manufacture a wide array of products, from ice cream, sauces, and seasonings to beauty, personal care, and home care items. First Gen will source the power from the geothermal plants of its subsidiary, Energy Development Corp. (EDC) , located in Bicol, Tongonan in Leyte, and Palinpinon in Negros Oriental . “Since 2017, First Gen has been our partner in helping us reduce the carbon footprint of our manufacturing operations with a steady supply of renewable en...

UAE and Phillipines $15 Billion Renewable Energy Stretches Into Geothermal

The Philippines and Masdar Energy Deal: A Game-Changer in the Renewable Energy Landscape with Geothermal Potential By: Robert Buluma In a groundbreaking move, the Philippines has joined forces with Masdar, the renewable energy giant from the UAE, in a bold partnership that promises to reshape its energy sector. Signed on January 15, 2025, this historic agreement sets the stage for the development of up to 1 gigawatt (GW) of renewable energy capacity by 2030, with ambitious plans to scale up to a staggering 10 GW by 2035. While solar and wind dominate the headlines, there’s a quiet opportunity emerging in the shadows: geothermal energy, a resource that could redefine the future of this collaboration. A $15 Billion Green Revolution With an estimated $15 billion in investment, this deal underscores the Philippines' commitment to sustainable growth and energy security. The country aims to increase its renewable energy share in the power generation mix from 22.8% in 2022 to...

Resilience and Rehabilitation Key For 40 year old Tongman Geothermal Plant

The Tale of Resilience: How Tongonan Geothermal Plant Overcame Typhoon Haiyan By: Robert Buluma Nearly 20 kilometres outside of the city of Ormoc, The Tongonan-1 geothermal power plant sits in mountainous Kananga, Leyte in the Philippines’ typhoon belt. Image: EDC In the wake of devastation, stories of resilience often emerge as beacons of hope. Such is the case of the Tongonan Geothermal Plant in the Philippines, which not only weathered the destructive force of Typhoon Haiyan but emerged stronger and more resilient than ever before. The year was 2013 when Typhoon Haiyan, one of the strongest tropical storms ever recorded, wreaked havoc on the province of Leyte. Among its victims was the Tongonan Geothermal Plant, a vital energy source in the region. Engineer Teodulfo Troyo, who witnessed the plant's shutdown in anticipation of the storm, recounts the harrowing experience of seeing the facility succumb to nature's fury. But amidst the ruins, a spirit of resilience took root. E...