DOE mulls more options in tapping other fuel sources during global crisis

The Department of Energy (DOE) is eyeing more options, such as tapping the Malampaya deepwater gas to power project, for potential sources of fuel in case of an oil shortage in the world market.

"There are some developments from Malampaya in offshore Palawan. We need to continue our development of indigenous sources of energy. There would be certain announcement for new exploration projects in the future," Energy Secretary Vincent S. Perez said.

Energy Undersecretary J.V. Emmanuel de Dios, for his part, said they have undertaken talks with bus companies for the use of compressed natural gas (CNG) in their vehicles as an alternative fuel.

"The DOE is currently talking with two bus operators. We are also discussing this with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board," de Dios said.

Perez said he had also met with the Russian ambassador to further enhance talks with non-Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) members for future oil importation initiatives.

"We need to ensure that we could that we could sustain or increase our purchase of crude oil from Russia this year,"Perez said.

The energy chief, at the same time, dismissed the possibility of suspending the tariff for crude oil to lessen the impact of the continued rise in world crude prices.

"We cannot afford to do this (suspend tariff on oil imports). At present, we should stick to our budget deficit target. It is smarter to keep budget discipline," he said.

Meanwhile, Perez announced that his US counterpart, Secretary Spencer Abraham, is in Manila to further strengthen cooperation between the two countries, particularly in the energy sector.

Secretary Abraham’s visit is an offshoot of US President George W. Bush’s state visit to the country last year. President Bush, a former oil man and has an extensive knowledge in the energy industry, promised to send his Energy Secretary to reinforce bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

Perez said the Philippines is the first ASEAN country to be visited by the said US energy official.

The bilateral talks, Perez said, will focus on the energy security concern of the two countries as well as promotion of sustainable energy through increased utilization of renewable energy sources and development of the emerging natural gas industry.