PH explores white hydrogen potential in Palawan

The samples will be analysed to fuel efforts to discover indigenous clean energy resources.

The Philippines has completed the reconnaissance survey in Palawan to look into the province’s potential for native hydrogen, a naturally occurring, lowcarbon energy source often referred to as “white hydrogen.”

According to the country’s Department of Energy, the study was conducted from 12 to 15 August 2025, marking the second leg of its nationwide initiative.

A joint technical team from the Energy Resource Development Bureau (ERDB) and the Energy Research and Testing Laboratory Services (ERTLS) collected critical water, gas, and rock samples from hot springs and outcrops in the Municipalities of Sofronio Española and Narra, and the City of Puerto Princesa.

“Initial fieldwork results from sites such as Kay’s Hot Spring in Brgy. Sta. Lourdes, Puerto Princesa City, and Bato-Bato Hot Spring in Brgy. Calategas, Municipality of Narra revealed promising indicators of naturally occurring hydrogen,” the department said.

The samples will undergo laboratory analysis to determine their potential and to guide the country’s broader strategy for harnessing indigenous clean energy resources. This effort forms part of the DOE’s mission to enhance national energy security, diversify the energy mix, and accelerate the transition toward a low-carbon and sustainable energy future.

This activity follows the Department’s first reconnaissance survey conducted in Zambales and Pangasinan last 30 June to 4 July, which covered areas under the predetermined contract blocks offered in the 2024 Philippine Bid Round.