TANTANGAN, South Cotabato – The Province of South Cotabato marked another significant milestone in its pursuit of sustainable development as government officials and private sector partners celebrated the Energization Ceremony of the Tantangan Solar Power Project (SPP) at the project site in Barangay Magon, Tantangan, recently.
Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Atty. Sharon S. Garin served as the Guest of Honor and led the ceremonial energization together with representatives from the national government, local government units, and the private sector.
“The energization of the Tantangan Solar Power Project reflects the government’s commitment to accelerating the country’s renewable energy transition, strengthening energy security, and ensuring a cleaner and more sustainable future for all Filipinos,” Secretary Garin said, emphasizing the importance of continued investments in renewable energy.
Energy Secretary Garin underscored the importance of expanding renewable energy investments in achieving the country’s long-term energy security and sustainability goals.
The ceremony highlighted the official energization of Phase 1 of the project, a major step toward the facility’s full commercial operation. Developed by Apolaki Seven, Inc. in partnership with ib vogt, the Tantangan Solar Power Project was presented during the event as the largest solar power facility in Mindanao, reinforcing the region’s growing role in advancing renewable energy.
Vice Governor Arthur Y. Pingoy, Jr. reaffirmed the Provincial Government’s commitment to promoting investments that advance economic development while preserving the environment.
“This project reflects the kind of investments that the Provincial Government of South Cotabato continues to promote—investments that create jobs, protect the environment, and contribute to long-term economic growth. Under the leadership of Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo, Jr., we remain committed to fostering a business-friendly environment that supports renewable energy and sustainable development for the benefit of every South Cotabateño,” Vice Governor Pingoy said.
Spanning approximately 128 hectares in Barangay Magon, the solar facility has a total installed capacity of 99 megawatt-peak (MWp). During the ceremony, the project’s Phase 1, with a generating capacity of 74.5 MWp, was officially energized, marking a major milestone toward its full commercial operation.
Once fully operational, the Tantangan Solar Power Project is expected to generate approximately 163 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of clean electricity annually, supplying renewable energy to around 68,000 households across Mindanao.
The project is likewise projected to reduce approximately 113,950 metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions each year, significantly contributing to environmental protection and climate change mitigation efforts.
The project is closely aligned with the Investment Priority Areas (IPAs) of the Province of South Cotabato, particularly in the renewable energy sector.
It supports the development vision of Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo, Jr. to attract sustainable investments, stimulate economic growth, generate employment opportunities, and accelerate the province’s transition toward clean and resilient energy.
Meanwhile, Apolaki Seven, Inc. reaffirmed its commitment to delivering reliable and sustainable energy solutions through strategic partnerships and innovative technologies, emphasizing that the Tantangan Solar Power Project represents a significant investment in Mindanao’s clean energy future.
As the province continues to attract transformative investments, the energization of the Tantangan Solar Power Project stands as a testament to the strong collaboration among the national government, the Provincial Government of South Cotabato, and the private sector in building a greener, more sustainable, and energy-secure future for Mindanao and the Philippines.
Representing the Provincial Government of South Cotabato were Vice Governor Arthur Y. Pingoy, Jr., members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, and officials from the South Cotabato Economic and Investments Promotion Center (SCEIPC).
Also present was Mr. Rodelio D. Soriano, Director of Apolaki Seven, Inc., who emphasized the significance of the project in supporting the country’s transition toward cleaner and more sustainable energy sources.
The successful implementation of the Tantangan Solar Power Project further strengthens South Cotabato’s position as one of the country’s emerging destinations for environmentally responsible investments while contributing to the Philippines’ renewable energy and energy security objectives.
