NatGas bill passes Senate hurdle

The Senate approved the Philippine Natural Gas Industry Development Act or Senate Bill No. 2793, on its third reading Monday. 

The bill aims to establish a comprehensive framework for developing the natural gas industry, seen as key to achieving energy security and sustainable economic growth.

The legislation sets out policies to promote natural gas transmission, distribution, and supply, while encouraging exploration and development of domestic resources. 

A key priority within the bill is the use of indigenous gas over imports to bolster energy security.

“This is a momentous step forward as we strive for energy security and sustainable growth," said Senator Pia Cayetano, chair of the Senate Committee on Energy and sponsor of the bill.

"This legislation supports both our national and international commitments to cleaner, more efficient energy production."

Cayetano emphasized that domestic natural gas has historically been cheaper, and that expanding natural gas opportunities would further drive down costs. 

“This bill is good for the country, good for the environment, and good for Filipino consumers,” she added. 

Senator Raffy Tulfo, explaining his vote, highlighted that reliance on foreign energy sources is unsustainable for energy security, citing the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on global energy markets.

“We should not rely on luck and external circumstances to ensure essential services, economic infrastructure, and business continuity,” Tulfo said, acknowledging renewable energy's current limitations.

The bill's provisions are expected to stabilize energy market prices, benefiting Filipino households by making energy more affordable and accessible. 

According to the Philippine Energy Plan, natural gas is projected to comprise 26 percent of the power generation mix by 2040.