Provincial and national government officials have clarified that there is currently no formal proposal for a Biliran Geothermal Project II, following the circulation of online posts claiming that a large-scale expansion of geothermal development in the province was already underway.
The clarification was made during a public information forum in Biliran after social media content alleged that a second geothermal project would cover more than 11,000 hectares across several municipalities, including Naval, Almeria, Kawayan, Caibiran, and Cabucgayan.
The posts sparked questions among residents, particularly regarding possible environmental and land-use impacts.
According to the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO), no documents, applications, or requests related to a second geothermal project have been filed with their office.
PENRO Officer-in-Charge Elmer B. Labaclado said that any geothermal development proposal would have to go through multiple stages of review, including environmental impact assessments, public consultations, and clearances from both the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Department of Energy (DOE).
Officials also pointed out that the existing Biliran Geothermal Project I remains in its development phase.
Based on DOE data, the current project has a capacity of about 2 megawatts and is still undergoing testing and commissioning.
Expansion or additional projects, they said, cannot proceed without evaluating the performance and outcomes of the first facility.
Environmental issues raised by residents such as potential effects on forest areas, water sources, and nearby communities were acknowledged during the discussion.
Authorities emphasized, however, that geothermal energy is classified as a renewable energy source and is subject to strict environmental safeguards under Philippine law.
They stressed that no project can proceed without compliance with environmental regulations and local government approval.
Provincial officials also clarified that discussions about geothermal energy development in Biliran are not unusual, given the island’s known geothermal potential.
However, they cautioned that exploratory studies or general assessments should not be mistaken for approved projects or signed agreements.
Governor Rogelio J. Espina has previously stated that the provincial government would carefully evaluate any future energy project and would not support developments that bypass legal requirements or community involvement.
Officials urged the public to verify information through official government channels and to participate in consultations should any formal proposal be submitted in the future.
For now, they reiterated, no proposal for Biliran Geothermal Project II is under review or consideration.
(Photo courtesy of PIA Biliran)
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