Semirara Mining and Power Corporation (SMPC) has temporarily suspended mining operations at its Acacia Mine on Semirara Island in Caluya, Antique, due to persistent seawater inflows and challenging ground conditions that have raised safety concerns.

In a November 11 disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange, SMPC said the suspension took effect on November 10 as a precautionary measure to ensure mine safety.

The company reported that seawater inflows at Acacia had reached peak levels of nearly 40,000 cubic meters per hour over the past year, equivalent to approximately 16 Olympic-sized swimming pools per hour. These inflows have exceeded the mine’s existing pumping capacity.

To address the situation, SMPC is continuing pumping operations and undertaking the construction and maintenance of a cut-off wall to manage water levels and improve ground stability.

The company intends to resume mining activities once seawater inflows can be effectively managed and operating conditions are considered safe. No specific timeline for resuming operations was disclosed.

Despite the suspension, SMPC reported that it had already achieved its full-year 2026 coal production target of 12 million to 13 million metric tons as of November 10, consistent with its approved work program.

With Acacia operations temporarily halted, the company’s coal production activities are now concentrated at its Narra Mine, also located on Semirara Island.

SMPC also acknowledged that managing Acacia’s seawater intrusion over the longer term would require substantial investments in additional pumping equipment, power systems, and other supporting infrastructure.

The company noted that Coal Operating Contract No. 5 (COC 5), which covers its mining operations on Semirara Island, is scheduled to expire on July 14, 2027.

However, SMPC has not disclosed the estimated investment required to address the mine’s operating challenges or provided details regarding the renewal of its coal operating contract.

The company also said it could not yet reasonably assess the potential financial impact of the Acacia suspension, given its temporary nature and the ongoing measures to address seawater intrusion.

SMPC said it would continue coordinating with the Department of Energy (DOE) and disclose further material developments as efforts to improve conditions at Acacia Mine progress.