Energy & Petroleum Law
Strategic counsel for energy developers, petroleum companies, and investors across the Philippine energy sector.
The Philippine energy sector is governed by a layered framework of statutes — the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA), the Renewable Energy Act, the Downstream Natural Gas Act, and Presidential Decree 87 (the Oil Exploration and Production Act), among others. We advise investors, developers, and operators on service contracts with the Department of Energy, power purchase and energy supply agreements, ERC regulatory compliance, and the full lifecycle of energy and petroleum projects — from exploration and development to generation, transmission, and commercial operation.
Services
- DOE petroleum service contracts (PD 87) and coal operating contracts
- Oil and gas exploration, development, and production agreements
- Power generation projects — conventional, renewable, and indigenous energy
- Power purchase agreements (PPAs) and energy supply contracts
- ERC regulatory filings, rate-setting, and compliance matters
- Transmission and distribution franchise and regulatory matters
- Joint operating agreements and energy project joint ventures
- Energy project disputes, arbitration, and regulatory enforcement defense
How we work
1. Sector assessment: We review the regulatory framework and commercial objectives of your energy project.
2. Contracting: We negotiate and draft service contracts, PPAs, and joint venture agreements.
3. Regulatory: We manage DOE, ERC, and other agency filings through to approval.
4. Disputes: We represent clients in regulatory enforcement, arbitration, and litigation.
Frequently asked questions
What is a petroleum service contract under PD 87?
A petroleum service contract is an agreement under Presidential Decree 87 in which the Department of Energy engages a contractor to explore for and produce petroleum. The contractor finances and conducts operations while the government retains ownership of the resources. We negotiate these contracts and handle compliance and disputes under them.
Does the Renewable Energy Act allow foreign ownership of RE projects?
Yes — the Renewable Energy Act of 2008 permits up to 100% foreign ownership of renewable energy projects, subject to constitutional limits on exploring, developing, and utilizing natural resources. We advise on permissible structures, including financial and technical service agreements.
What regulatory approvals does a power generation project need?
A generation project needs a Certificate of Compliance from the Energy Regulatory Commission, DOE endorsement, environmental compliance from DENR-EMB, and local government permits. Requirements vary by technology and site. We coordinate the full pathway to commercial operation.
Contact Eleazar Bangi & Associates Law Firm
Office: 511 Bell Mansion, Bagong Pag-asa, Quezon City, Metro Manila 1105, Philippines. Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Email: rjbangi@reblegal.com. WhatsApp and Viber available. Contact us.