The Philippines won’t renew Semirara’s coal contract past 2027; a public auction will choose a new operator by late 2026.

The Philippine government will not renew Semirara Mining and Power Corp.’s coal operating contract beyond its 2027 expiration, following a Department of Justice legal opinion. A public auction will be held by late 2026 to select a new operator, with SMPC eligible to bid despite losing its automatic renewal. The move aims to ensure continuity in coal production, which supplies nearly all domestic output, while balancing competitiveness and long-term sustainability.