TACLOBAN CITY— Biliran Governor Rogelio Espina has rejected reports circulating on social media about the planned expansion of a geothermal project on the island, clarifying that the provincial government has not approved and will not allow any drilling activities related to the proposed Biliran II Geothermal Project.
In an official statement, Espina said the provincial government issued the clarification to address public concern over reports about the possible revival or expansion of geothermal operations in Biliran.
The governor stressed that no application for permits has been filed with the provincial government for the project and that no authority has been granted for additional drilling or related activities.
“We have not given any approval, and we will not allow any additional drilling or any activity for their expansion,” Espina said.
He emphasized that protecting the island’s environment—including its mountains, forests, and water sources—remains a priority of his administration, even over the prospect of additional power generation. Espina said Biliran’s natural resources are vital to the survival and livelihood of its people.
The governor also urged Biliranons not to believe what he described as malicious and misleading information spreading online, assuring the public that the provincial government stands firm in protecting the island from projects that could harm the environment.
The statement was echoed by Caibiran Mayor Rhodessa Revita, who said the local government unit recognizes public concerns over the possible environmental and geohazard impacts of the proposed geothermal project within the municipality.
Revita clarified that Biliran Geothermal, Inc. (BGI) is not a new project and was initiated under previous administrations. She said the project remains non-operational and that no geothermal drilling has been conducted, particularly since the start of the current administration in 2019.
She added that the LGU of Caibiran has not issued any permit for drilling and will not allow activities that may endanger the municipality’s forests, watersheds, natural resources, or communities.
Revita said any future geothermal proposal would be subject to strict evaluation, full transparency, and meaningful public consultation with affected communities, stakeholders, and concerned government agencies, in compliance with existing laws and regulations.
Both provincial and municipal officials reiterated their commitment to environmental protection and to safeguarding the welfare of present and future generations of Biliranons amid renewed discussion on geothermal development in the province.
(JOEY A. GABIETA)
