Marcos Jr. inspects Malampaya Phase 4, vows stronger energy security

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Thursday conducted an aerial inspection of the Malampaya Phase 4 Project stationed offshore of Palawan. According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), the President’s inspection “underscored the administration's efforts to strengthen the country's energy security by boosting domestic natural gas production and reducing dependence on imported energy sources.” Under the Malampaya Phase 4 Project, three new wells are being developed: Malampaya East-1 (MAE-1), Camago-3, and Bagong Pag-asa-1. To recall, Marcos confirmed in January the successful drilling and testing of MAE-1 well, and in March, the Camago-3 well---both of which are expected to support sustained production from the Malampaya gas field. The MAE-1 and Camago-3 wells have combined initial estimated reserves of around 222 billion cubic feet of natural gas. The PCO said that the government targets the delivery of new gas supply from the two wells by the fourth quarter of 2026, while preparations for the drilling of the Bagong Pag-asa-1 well continue. Marcos’ inspection of the Malampaya gas field was part of his visit to Palawan where he attended several events like the inauguration of the Ibato-Iraan Small Reservoir Irrigation Project, as well as the Bawat Bayan Makikinabang in Puerto Princesa City. He also visited the two wounded Philippine Navy personnel at Camp Ricarte Station Hospital inside the Western Command (WESCOM) headquarters. —RF, GMA News