Department of Energy (DOE) Officer-in-Charge Sharon S. Garin joined key officials of the Malampaya Consortium in welcoming the arrival of the 7th Generation Drillship Noble Viking in the Bagong Pag-Asa Drill Site, offshore Palawan, yesterday, 19 June 2025, signifying the official commencement of drilling operations under the Malampaya Phase 4 (MP4) Project.
In her remarks, OIC Garin highlighted the arrival of Noble Viking as a significant milestone for the country’s energy sector, noting that the commencement of drilling operations reflects a renewed national commitment to securing the Philippines’ long-term energy security.
“This occasion marks a significant moment not only for the SC 38 Consortium but also for the government, and more importantly, for the Filipino people we are committed to serving,” she said.
Also present in welcoming the arrival of Noble Viking was Senator Pia Cayetano, Chair of the Senate Committee on Energy, whose consistent support was acknowledged for advancing the country’s energy agenda and the officers of Prime Energy led by Mr. Enrique K. Razon, Jr.
Commissioned in 2001, the Malampaya Deep Water Gas-to-Power Project has long served as a cornerstone of the Philippine energy mix, supplying as much as 40% of Luzon’s power demand at its peak. Under Phase 4, Noble Viking will drill three new wells, Camago-3, Malampaya East-1, and Bagong Pag-asa-1, extending the life of the gas field and securing the country’s indigenous energy supply.
“This development not only strengthens our energy security and reduces our dependence on imported fuel,” OIC Garin said, “but also for consumers and supports our industries and jobs.”
The DOE underscored the importance of timely implementation, citing the expected delivery of first gas by the fourth quarter of 2026 as a clear demonstration of urgency and efficiency needed in today’s energy operations.
OIC Garin also commended Prime Energy for its continued investment and close collaboration with government, noting that such partnerships, rooted in clear policy direction, technological innovation, and private sector capability, are essential to achieving national energy goals.
She extended gratitude to the engineers, geologists, rig workers, and support teams powering the MP4 Project. “Offshore drilling is a high-risk, highly technical endeavor, yet your dedication and resilience bring this mission to life. You are at the heart of this mission.”
The DOE reaffirmed its full support for the MP4 Project and committed to facilitating its future phases in line with the Department’s vision of a secure, sustainable, and accessible energy future.
“Every well drilled, every milestone reached, and every megawatt produced is a collective step forward, toward a secure, inclusive, and sustainable energy future for all Filipinos,” OIC Garin stressed.
The ceremonial arrival of Noble Viking is not merely the start of another drilling operation, it is a powerful symbol of what can be achieved when government and private sector work together to power the nation responsibly and with purpose. ###