The Department of Energy (DOE) Officer-in-Charge (OIC) Sharon S. Garin, alongside key officials from the Malampaya Consortium, yesterday welcomed the arrival of the 7th Generation Drillship Noble Viking at the Bagong Pag-Asa Drill Site, offshore Palawan. This pivotal moment marks the official commencement of drilling operations under the Malampaya Phase 4 (MP4) Project, a critical initiative to bolster the Philippines’ long-term energy security.
OIC Garin underscored the significance of the Noble Viking’s arrival, hailing it as a major milestone for the nation’s energy sector. “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 stated, emphasizing the renewed national commitment to securing the country’s energy future.
Among those present to witness the drillship’s arrival was Senator Pia Cayetano, Chair of the Senate Committee on Energy, whose consistent support for advancing the country’s energy agenda was duly acknowledged. Also in attendance were officers of Prime Energy, led by Mr. Enrique K. Razon, Jr., demonstrating the strong public-private partnership driving this vital project.
Commissioned in 2001, the Malampaya Deep Water Gas-to-Power Project has been an indispensable cornerstone of the Philippine energy mix, historically supplying up to 40% of Luzon’s power demand. Under Phase 4, the Noble Viking will undertake the drilling of three new wells—Camago-3, Malampaya East-1, and Bagong Pag-asa-1—aimed at extending the operational life of the gas field and securing the nation’s indigenous energy supply.
“This development not only strengthens our energy security and reduces our dependence on imported fuel,” OIC Garin added, “but also supports consumers and our industries and jobs.” The DOE highlighted the urgency of timely implementation, with the expected delivery of first gas by the fourth quarter of 2026 serving as a clear demonstration of the efficiency required in modern energy operations.
OIC Garin further commended Prime Energy for its continued investment and close collaboration with the government, recognizing that such partnerships, founded on clear policy direction, technological innovation, and private sector capability, are essential to achieving national energy goals. She extended her gratitude to the engineers, geologists, rig workers, and support teams powering the MP4 Project, acknowledging their critical role. “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 unwavering support for the MP4 Project and pledged to facilitate its future phases in line with the Department’s vision of a secure, sustainable, and accessible energy future for all Filipinos. “Every well-drilled, every milestone reached, and every megawatt produced is a collective step toward a secure, inclusive, and sustainable energy future for all Filipinos,” OIC Garin stressed.
The arrival of the Noble Viking is more than just the start of drilling operations; it is a powerful symbol of the collective achievement possible when government and the private sector collaborate purposefully to responsibly power the nation.