DOE chief spotlights community gains in Semirara visit

Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin underscored the importance of people-centered development in the energy sector during a site visit to Semirara Island in Caluya, Antique, where she toured the operations of Semirara Mining and Power Corporation (SMPC).

Joined by Undersecretary Alessandro O. Sales, Assistant Director Demujin F. Antiporda, and Atty. Rowena Joyce A. Delos Santos, Garin inspected coal production areas and key facilities of SMPC, the country’s largest coal producer. The delegation also went through a safety induction before their site visit.

Beyond operations, the visit highlighted SMPC’s initiatives for local communities, including education, healthcare, and livelihood programs for Caluya residents. Discussions with local officials also touched on potential new projects that could bring long-term benefits to the island.

“Every policy we pursue must translate into tangible benefits for our people,” Garin said. “Our goal is to build an energy sector that not only fuels the economy but also nurtures communities.”

The Department of Energy (DOE) said the visit reflects its continuing effort to balance national energy priorities with grassroots development, ensuring that the industry’s gains are felt directly by Filipinos.

DOE officials noted that the agency is working closely with private operators and local governments to secure a reliable, sustainable, and inclusive energy future—one that supports both economic growth and community welfare.

Semirara, a major contributor to the country’s power generation mix, has long been central to discussions on energy security. With DOE’s emphasis on inclusivity, Garin said future initiatives will focus not only on sustaining national supply but also on uplifting lives in host communities.