Filipinas Systems Inc. (FSI), a former division in the construction company FF Cruz & Co. Inc. led by businessman Felipe Cruz Jr., was awarded the first coal operating contract (COC) in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
The Department of Energy (DOE) and the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Energy (MENRE) of BARMM said the contract allows FSI to conduct coal exploration in Kapai and Tagoloan II, Lanao del Sur.
The awarding ceremony took place on Oct. 24, 2024, at the Office of the BARMM Chief Minister at the Bangsamoro Government Center in Cotabato City. BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim, Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla and MENRE Minister Akmad Brahim attended the event.
The DOE said the event highlights the national government’s continued support for BARMM’s economic growth and energy self-sufficiency under the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., solidifying a partnership that will shape the region’s future energy landscape.
“The awarding of the first COC in BARMM is a landmark moment for both governments. It reflects our collective commitment to advancing energy development and resource management in the region, empowering the BARMM to play a key role in the country’s energy future. This partnership will not only foster energy independence for the Bangsamoro region but also create pathways for sustainable economic growth and development,” Lotilla said.
Under the terms of the coal service contract, FSI committed to investing around P19 million in its two-year exploration work program. Once converted to development and production stage, FSI will provide P150,000 annually in scholarships to qualified individuals from the contract area, supporting local communities.
FF Cruz previously had COCs in 1987 and 1989 in Payao and Siay, Zamboanga Sibugay coal districts. It later assigned its rights over the said coal blocks to Filsystems.
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