PGPC plants seeds of sustainability with 1M tree campaign

Insider Spotlight

• Philippine Geothermal Production Co. (PGPC) to plant one million trees across seven Luzon provinces
• Initiative to cover 1,200 hectares near geothermal steam fields
• Part of PGPC’s expansion in clean energy and biodiversity restoration
  
  

Philippine Geothermal Production Co. Inc. (PGPC) has rolled out a five-year program to plant more than one million trees across Luzon, reinforcing its dual push for renewable energy development and environmental protection.

By the numbers

• 1 million+ trees: Total seedlings targeted
• 1,200 hectares: Reforested land across Luzon
• 7 provinces: Including Albay, Batangas, Laguna, Benguet, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, and Quezon
• 300 MW: Current geothermal capacity from Tiwi and Mak-Ban plants
• +300 MW: Projected additional renewable capacity from new fields

Why it matters

Forests around geothermal fields act as natural safeguards, preserving biodiversity, improving air and water quality, and strengthening climate resilience. For PGPC, the initiative also signals alignment with national renewable energy targets and global calls for sustainability.

“This re-greening program underscores PGPC’s dual commitment to clean energy and the environment,” said president Napoleon L. Saporsantos Jr. 

“It reflects our dedication to environmental stewardship as we develop new geothermal energy sources that will significantly contribute to the country’s renewable energy portfolio.”

The launch

The program kicked off in Malinao, Albay, where PGPC executives, government officials, and community leaders planted 1,000 seedlings at the company’s geothermal reservation. 

The event drew representatives from the Department of Energy, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and local governments.

The big picture

Founded in 1979, PGPC pioneered commercial geothermal energy in Southeast Asia. Its current operations deliver baseload renewable power, with ongoing exploration aimed at doubling output. 

The tree-planting campaign underscores how legacy energy firms are reframing their growth strategies to balance resource development with ecological restoration. —Ed: Vanessa Hidalgo