The Gemini Wind Energy Corp. (GWEC) is issuing this clarification in response to recent statements concerning the Calbayog Pan-as Hayiban Protected Landscape (CPHPL). We recognize and appreciate the interest of all stakeholders, including members of the media, environmental advocates, and concerned citizens, in ensuring that the development of renewable energy projects remains consistent with environmental protection and sustainable management.
Our purpose is to provide accurate information and affirm that the project fully adheres to existing laws, policies, and scientific principles governing renewable energy and protected areas.
- Republic Act No. 11038, or the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System (E-NIPAS) Act of 2018, explicitly recognizes the multiple-use management principle within protected areas. It allows environmentally sound renewable energy projects inside Multiple-Use Zones (MUZ), subject to strict review, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) leading to the issuance of an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) and Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) approval. It is, therefore, incorrect to interpret the law as banning all development activities within a protected area.
- Republic Act No. 9513, or the Renewable Energy Act of 2008, together with the Philippine Energy Plan and Ambisyon Natin 2040, mandates the nation’s transition to a cleaner, more secure energy future.
By 2030, the Philippines targets at least 35 percent of total power generation from renewable energy sources. This national policy is aligned with United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goal 7 (“SDG 7, Affordable and Clean Energy”) under the UN 2030 Agenda and the 2015 Paris Agreement, both of which call for accelerated renewable energy deployment to mitigate climate change. Wind energy, being renewable and sustainable, directly supports these commitments.
- Contrary to circulating misinformation, no wind turbine or project component is located within the Strict Protection Zone (SPZ) of the CPHPL. All proposed installations are confined to MUZ, consistent with the zoning approved by the PAMB and verified through geospatial analysis. These zones allow development activities compatible with conservation objectives. The CPHPL has a total area of 5,067.93 hectares, of which 1,926.94 hectares is the MUZ. Of the total MUZ, GWEC has applied for a SAPA on 139.27 hectares, of which only 24 hectares will be used for the wind project. This is only 0.48% of the total CPHPL area.
- The PAMB is a multi-sectoral body composed of representatives from various sectors, including local government units, national government agencies, civil society organizations, and the private sector. The PAMB operates through a transparent and participatory process where decisions are made collectively by its members, not just by one person, through consultations, technical working group (TWG) reviews, and Information, Education and Communication (IEC) activities. Resolutions and actions are deliberated and agreed upon by the board, and approved by the DENR Regional Executive Director, who is the PAMB Chairperson. This structure promotes accountability, inclusivity, and shared responsibility in managing the protected area.
- Scientific studies show that wind energy systems do not consume, divert, or contaminate water resources. The Calbayog watershed’s quantity and quality of water remain unaffected because wind turbines operate without combustion, discharge, or effluent. In fact, by displacing fossil fuel generation, they reduce greenhouse gas emissions that would otherwise degrade watershed ecosystems.
- The principal driver of climate change and biodiversity loss is the burning of fossil fuels. Renewable energy projects like the Gemini Wind Power Project are vital to cut carbon emissions, lessen air pollution, and safeguard ecosystems for future generations. Transitioning to clean energy is a moral and scientific imperative, not an ecological threat.
GWEC would like to reiterate our commitment to sustainable development while upholding environmental considerations such as the protection and preservation of biodiversity, maintenance of ecosystem services, and sustainable management of natural resources. We are and will continue to be compliant with all regulatory requirements of the Philippines as we maintain and remain open to dialogue and working with stakeholders to achieve the common good.
