Angkor Resources Corp. has announced that its energy subsidiary, EnerCam Resources Cambodia Co. Ltd., has identified four drill targets for exploratory oil and gas wells on Block VIII in Cambodia. This development follows the final interpretation of a 350-line kilometre seismic program conducted across the 4095 square kilometre license area, marking a critical advancement toward Cambodia's first onshore oil and gas exploration.
The technical interpretation revealed structural traps within the Bokor sub-basins, described as an exceptionally rare undrilled fold-belt featuring multiple large anticlines with four-way closures. Dr. David Johnson, Qualified Professional for Angkor Resources, noted the geological similarity to the early exploration days in Wyoming but with the advantage of modern seismic data. He specifically drew parallels to the producing Nam Phong and Sinphuhorm fields in Thailand's Khorat Basin, accessible via industry reports, suggesting a clear analog for potential resource accumulation.
Seismic mapping delineated three primary anticlinal structures in the Bokor trend: South Bokor with a mean area of 57 square kilometres, Central Bokor at 54 square kilometres, and North Bokor covering 100 square kilometres. Additionally, a stratigraphic trap estimated at 28 square kilometers was identified in the Kirirom sub-basin. The primary traps in the Bokor structures are associated with gently folded seals and reservoirs near angular unconformities, with secondary traps potentially existing at multiple levels, meaning each exploratory well could encounter several gas or oil accumulations.
The implications of this discovery are substantial for Cambodia's energy sector and regional markets. The geological resemblance to the proven Khorat Basin, where significant gas production has occurred over two decades, elevates the prospectivity of Block VIII. Successful exploration could reduce Cambodia's energy dependence and attract further investment into its natural resource sector. The planned wells, which may exceed 3000 metres in depth to test two prospective zones each, represent a high-cost, high-reward endeavor typical of frontier exploration.
The company's next step involves tendering and undertaking an Environmental Impact Assessment for the targeted drilling areas. Concurrently, Angkor Resources has granted 250,000 stock options at $0.35 per share to consultants, subject to TSX Venture Exchange approval, as detailed in their corporate disclosures available at TSX Venture Exchange. This move aligns with ongoing business development efforts as the project advances from seismic interpretation to drilling preparation. For the energy industry, this progression underscores the ongoing search for new hydrocarbon provinces in Southeast Asia, with Cambodia emerging as a new frontier. The technical work, involving teams of up to eight geoscientists, continues to refine the drill target stratigraphy, aiming to de-risk the upcoming drilling campaign that could prove Cambodia's onshore hydrocarbon potential.
