by Eva Visperas
The Department of Energy (DOE) presented before the Pangasinan Sangguniang Panlalawigan its plans for the exploration of natural hydrogen in parts of the province.
Vice Governor Mark Lambino said the presentation covered Service Contracts 83 and 84, which involve exploration activities in Pangasinan, Zambales, and portions of Tarlac.
The DOE clarified that these are exploration service contracts and do not yet involve commercial extraction or utilization. The primary objective is to determine the viability and potential presence of naturally occurring hydrogen resources in the identified areas.
Around 12 local government units in Pangasinan—mostly located in the Second District, with portions in the First and Third Districts—are covered by the exploratory study.
Initial findings from aerial surveys reportedly indicate possible areas where natural hydrogen deposits may exist. Further technical studies will be conducted to validate these indicators.
Lambino stressed that the project remains in the exploratory stage and assured that coordination with concerned local government units will continue as assessments progress.