TANAUAN CITY, BATANGAS — Batangas Governor Vilma Santos-Recto reaffirmed yesterday the province’s commitment of support to sustainable and affordable energy solutions.
This time, especially, when rising energy prices continue to challenge households and industries.
Santos-Recto, in a statement during the launching of a major renewable energy initiative by First Gen Corporation, highlighted the importance of strong partnerships between the private sector and local government.
“Let me assure you, here in Batangas, your investments will not only grow, they will thrive and succeed, powered by an educated and dedicated workforce and a supportive local government.”
The Governor also emphasized that such initiatives strengthen Batangas’ position as a strategic hub for energy, industry, and sustainable development; creating meaningful livelihood opportunities for more Filipinos while supporting the country’s transition to cleaner power.
Francis Giles B. Puno, President and COO of First Gen Corporation, praised the company’s long-standing partnership with Batangas and its continued investments in clean and resilient energy systems.
“First Gen’s projects across the province reflect the scale of its commitment, from renewable energy facilities in Batangas City to residential projects and industrial expansion through the First Philippine Industrial Park in Tanauan City.
“Collectively, the company’s ecosystem of investments now supports approximately 83,000 employees in Batangas Province.
According to him, Batangas and Tanauan City have become hubs for “lasting partnerships,” where business growth, community development, and environmental stewardship move forward together.
One milestone recalled during the event was the 2014 inauguration of the San Gabriel Power Plant, which Governor Vilma Santos-Recto attended more than a decade ago.
“The partnership continues to evolve with First Gen’s expansion into solar energy, reinforcing Batangas’ role in the country’s energy transition,” said Puno.
The company currently operates a diverse energy portfolio that includes geothermal, hydro, and other renewable platforms. While geothermal and hydro projects involve complex and long-term development, the new solar facility represents a faster solution.
A key innovation of the project, Puno said, is its design, which allows the land beneath the solar panels to remain productive for agriculture. The panels are elevated approximately 1.5 meters, creating enough space for farming activities below allowing the same land to generate both food and energy.
“This project is not only about sustainability, but also about affordability,” citing how renewable energy can help stabilize long-term power costs.
