Semirara Mining and Power Corporation (SMPC) has received approval from the Department of Energy (DOE) for its planned Php 291-billion coal mine complex expansion in Antique.
In a statement to the Philippine Star, the company confirmed that the DOE granted its consent for the project in December 2024, allowing SMPC to proceed with the expansion of its Molave and Narra pits while preparing to develop the new Acacia pit.
The project, spanning 5,677.75 hectares, is set to run until 2027. SMPC is currently awaiting approval of an amended environmental compliance certificate from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) following public consultations held in October 2024.
Meanwhile, exploration efforts at the Acacia pit are also underway as SMPC aims to maintain its annual production target of up to 16 million metric tons (MT), a level it has sustained for three consecutive years.
With the Molave pit reaching the end of its mine life in November 2023 and the Narra pit expected to follow in 2026, the expansion ensures continued coal production crucial for power generation and cement manufacturing.
The company has earmarked Php 6.9 billion for capital expenditures in 2025, primarily for fleet expansion and additional mining equipment.
Despite the global shift toward cleaner energy, SMPC noted that coal remains in demand due to its role in existing power plants and industrial operations.
The expansion is expected to support local employment, infrastructure projects, and economic activity in the region while strengthening the company’s ability to meet domestic and international coal demand.
