AS the Philippines reels from the devastation of six typhoons in under a month, environmental advocates have condemned the government’s continued push for fossil gas investments, labeling it a betrayal of climate commitments.

The criticism intensified during the 4th Philippine Natural Gas Investment Summit, where President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. endorsed gas as a “cleaner” alternative in transitioning to a low-carbon economy.

Activists countered that narrative, arguing fossil gas emits methane, a potent greenhouse gas contributing significantly to global warming.

“Calling fossil gas a transition fuel is a dangerous lie,” the statement of Philippine Movement for Climate Justice (PMCJ) reads in part.

The group highlighted the detrimental impact of methane emissions, which exacerbate air pollution, harm biodiversity, and endanger public health.

The summit comes as the Malampaya gas field faces depletion by 2027-2029, raising questions about energy security.

Critics argue the government’s focus on liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports and domestic extraction risks perpetuating dependence on costly fossil fuels while sidelining the Philippines’ vast renewable energy (RE) potential.

With 5,779 megawatts of installed RE capacity meeting nearly a third of the country’s energy needs, advocates say the Philippines has untapped potential for up to 134,822 MW in renewables. Yet, they claim government policy prioritizes fossil gas, canceling hundreds of RE contracts while advancing LNG infrastructure.

The environmental and health impacts of fossil gas are evident, according to PMCJ. Communities near gas facilities in Batangas report elevated rates of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, underscoring the need to shift away from gas dependency.

Meanwhile, Senate Bill No. 2793, the Philippine Natural Gas Industry Development Act, has faced backlash for reinforcing fossil gas dominance. Critics warn that such legislation empowers corporations at the expense of public health and climate goals.

“Lasting energy solutions require investing in 100% renewable energy by 2030,” PMCJ said, citing successes like the Albay Renewable Energy and Investments Summit, which secured commitments for clean energy projects.

The advocacy group called for accountability from both government and industry players, vowing to challenge what it described as the “false solutions” perpetuated by the gas industry.

“A specter is haunting climate criminals—the specter of renewables,” the group said, signaling its determination to push for a sustainable energy future.