US-based Koloma Inc. is seeking two more natural hydrogen exploration contracts in the Philippines after early survey work produced encouraging results, the Department of Energy (DOE) said.
Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said at the Asean Energy Business Forum in Manila that she recently met with Koloma’s chief executive and other company officials. According to Garin, they expressed confidence in the company’s exploration activities. She said the company’s survey data indicated the presence of hydrogen in its exploration area.
The DOE has also proposed working with Koloma to build local expertise in using hydrogen for power generation, fertilizer production and other purposes.
Garin said other companies are also pursuing exploration contracts, which she described as a sign of growing interest in the country’s natural hydrogen resources. She noted that the Philippines held what the DOE called the world’s first competitive bidding round for natural hydrogen exploration.
Natural hydrogen forms underground and is not produced through industrial processes. The DOE said commercially viable discoveries could give the country an additional domestic energy source and strengthen its energy security.
Existing contracts
Koloma currently holds three natural hydrogen contracts in the Philippines. Two were awarded in October 2025. The third, Service Contract (SC) 92, was signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in July and gives the company exclusive rights to explore western Zambales. Together, the three contracts cover more than 4,100 square kilometers.
In July, Koloma began a two-dimensional seismic survey in Pangasinan under SC 84. The survey maps underground rock formations and helps identify areas that may contain hydrogen. The company is also exploring neighboring parts of Zambales under SC 83. The DOE said earlier geological sampling at the Los Fuegos Eternos gas seep produced findings that justified further study.
About the company
Koloma is based in Denver, Colorado. It uses geological data and proprietary technology to locate and assess natural hydrogen deposits, and it maintains a research laboratory at Ohio State University. The company expanded internationally in 2025 through activities in Australia and the Philippines.
Its investors include Breakthrough Energy Ventures, Amazon’s Climate Pledge Fund and United Airlines’ Sustainable Flight Fund. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries joined the investor group in 2024.
The two additional contracts Koloma is seeking would come on top of its three existing agreements.
