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In the dynamic landscape of the Philippine mining industry, Genluiching Mining Corporation (GMC) has emerged as a significant player since its inception. Founded on June 2012 by Mr. Jet P. Tupas, GMC has swiftly positioned itself as a robust contender within the sector, focusing on sustainable mining practices and community development. With interests spanning iron ore, nickel, copper, gold, and various non-metallic minerals, GMC aims to harness the rich mineral resources of the Philippines, particularly in its current tenement locations at Mati City, Davao Oriental, and Ayungon, Negros Oriental. This article will explore the impressive growth of GMC, its operational strategies, and impactful community engagements that highlight its commitment to responsible mining.
The Vision Behind GMC
Founded with a mission to lead responsibly within the mining sector, Mr. Jet P. Tupas, President and CEO of GMC, emphasizes sustainability and community development. His vision for GMC is not solely focused on profit generation but rather on creating a legacy that benefits both the environment and local communities. Mr. Tupas stated:
"At Genluiching Mining Corporation, our overarching goal is to integrate mining operations with community well-being. We strive to ensure that our extraction activities positively impact the surrounding areas while adhering to the highest standards of environmental stewardship. Our mission reflects our commitment to sustainable practices that leave a lasting positive impact beyond mere commercial success."
This holistic approach underscores the company's dedication to responsible mining and sets the foundation for GMC’s continued growth.
Mineral Interests of Genluiching Mining Corporation
Diverse Mineral Portfolio
GMC's interest in a broad range of minerals significantly enhances its position in the market. The company primarily focuses on:
Iron Ore: A critical raw material for steel production, the iron ore market continues to thrive with ongoing global industrialization. GMC aims to tap into this demand by ensuring a steady supply of high-grade iron ore.
Nickel and Copper: Both of these metals have surged in demand, particularly due to their fundamental roles in electric vehicle manufacturing and renewable energy technologies. As countries push towards greener initiatives, GMC is strategically well-positioned to capture these emerging markets.
Gold: Continues to be a hedge against inflation and economic uncertainty. GMC's expansion into gold mining complements its portfolio and increases its revenue potential amid fluctuating market conditions.
Non-Metallic Minerals: This category includes crucial materials such as limestone, silica sand, silica quartz, and pozzolan that are essential for construction and infrastructure projects. By diversifying its mineral interests, GMC can cater to various industries and capitalize on multiple revenue streams.
These diverse focus areas not only bolster GMC’s market competitiveness but also reinforce its stability against market volatility. Efforts to explore new mining opportunities in non-metallic minerals exhibit GMC's adaptability in the face of changing economic landscapes.
GMC’s Operational Landscape
Current Tenements and Resource Management
GMC's operational tenements are strategically located in Davao Oriental, and Negros Oriental—regions known for their wealth of natural resources. These locations provide GMC access to various minerals while facilitating logistical efficiency in transporting materials. Additionally, they are situated near vital infrastructure, enabling effective management of mining operations.
Commitment to Environmental Compliance
Under the leadership of Mr. Leo Belarmino Jr., COO and Vice President of GMC, the corporation emphasizes rigorous operational compliance and environmental sustainability. He remarks:
"Our operations are built upon a foundation of safety, regulatory compliance, and best practices. We recognize that adherence to legal requirements is non-negotiable; however, we also go beyond compliance by actively promoting initiatives to protect the environment. At GMC, we strive to harmonize our business endeavors with ecological balance to contribute positively to the regions we operate in."
This commitment to environmental management encompasses comprehensive measures including waste management protocols, restoration plans for mined lands, and biodiversity conservation to mitigate the impact of mining activities. GMC whole heartedly embraces its responsibility to maintain an environmentally friendly operational footprint.
Engaging Local Communities
A key component of GMC’s strategy revolves around fostering strong ties with local communities, recognizing that mining operations cannot thrive in isolation. GMC takes pride in its investment in community development through various initiatives:
Healthcare Programs: GMC engages in health outreach campaigns, providing medical assistance to local residents and improving health care access in underserved areas.
Education Initiatives: The company supports educational programs, creating scholarships for deserving students, facilitating supplies for schools, and investing in facilities. This fosters local talent development and equips future generations to contribute positively to their communities.
Infrastructure Development: Contributions towards local infrastructure projects enhance living conditions, demonstrating GMC's commitment to meaningful engagement with the areas it impacts.
Through these comprehensive efforts, GMC cultivates trust and goodwill, fostering collaborative relationships while simultaneously strengthening its community framework.
Future Prospects and Growth
As the mining landscape continues to evolve, Genluiching Mining Corporation remains committed to strategic expansion and innovation. Future prospects for GMC include:
Exploration Activities: Ongoing exploratory efforts aimed at identifying new mineral deposits will further enrich GMC’s portfolio and bolster its resource base.
Broadening Market Reach: Expanding operations into adjacent regions and tapping into both local and international markets will enhance GMC’s competitive advantage. Developing partnerships with domestic and international entities can facilitate knowledge sharing and elevate operational efficiencies.
Innovation in Mining Technology: GMC is also exploring innovative technologies that align with sustainable practices. Integrating advancements such as automation and data analytics can increase operational effectiveness while minimizing environmental concerns.
These expansions and innovations position GMC well within a rapidly changing mining industry, affirming its stance as a forward-thinking organization committed to sustainable practices.
Genluiching Mining Corporation’s meteoric rise in the Philippine mining industry serves as an inspiring testament to what can be achieved through visionary leadership and a commitment to sustainable practices. Under the guidance of Mr. Jet P. Tupas and the operational stewardship of Mr. Leo Belarmino Jr., GMC is actively reshaping the narrative around mining, marrying economic viability with corporate responsibility.
By strategically diversifying its mineral interests—including iron ore, nickel, copper, gold, and non-metallic minerals—GMC is poised for long-term growth. Its dedication to fostering community development, alongside its stringent compliance to environmental regulations, positions GMC as a true role model. As GMC continues to cement its place within the Philippine mining landscape, its legacy of social responsibility and sustainable development will undoubtedly impact future generations positively. The partnership between mining operations and community wellbeing stands as a cornerstone of GMC's mission, ensuring that all stakeholders benefit from the resources extracted from the earth.
Through its ongoing efforts in responsible extraction and community engagement, GMC is set to flourish as a rising star in the industry, paving the way for others to follow.
The Philippine government, through the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), has strengthened its collaboration with Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism (MLIT) to enhance flood control and water resources management efforts in flood-prone areas across the country.
A pivotal moment in this partnership occurred during the 5th Seminar on Disaster Management Operations, Urban Flood Control and Dam Development held on February 13, 2025, at the Bayleaf Hotel in Intramuros, Manila.
DPWH Senior Undersecretary Emil K. Sadain together with MLIT Assistant Vice Minister Ishikawa Shin, Embassy of Japan Minister for Economic Affairs Nihei Daisuke, and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Philippines Office Senior Representative Yanagiuchi Masanari spearheaded the seminar aimed to push forward integrated flood control solutions and Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) through Japan’s cutting-edge technology and engineering expertise.
Organized by the DPWH Unified Project Management Office - Flood Control Management Cluster (UPMO-FCMC) headed by Project Director Ramon A. Arriola III, the forum sought to to enhance cooperation among key national agencies, focusing on vulnerable areas like Metro Manila, and strengthening disaster management capabilities.
Senior Undersecretary Sadain emphasized the importance of the seminar in fostering collaboration and enhancing technical knowledge and expertise fundamental to achieving resilient and sustainable disaster risk management operations especially in the National Capital Region, including areas like Marikina, Pasig, San Juan, Parañaque, and Taguig.
“Our longstanding partnership and collaboration with Japan remains instrumental and pivotal to the government’s efforts in strengthening our flood control and integrated water resources system management, which are key players in improving the urban planning in Metro Manila,” added Senior Undersecretary Sadain.
Currently, DPWH, together with the Metropolitan Development Authority (MMDA), is expediting the completion of the Metro Manila Flood Management Project (MMFMP) Phase 1, which aims to improve drainage systems and solid waste management practices, benefiting approximately two (2)-million beneficiaries in priority flood-prone areas in Metro Manila in 2026.
The forum also explored the status of Flood Risk Information in the Philippines, demonstrating the shared efforts of relevant agencies to develop comprehensive and informed disaster risk reduction planning despite prevalent challenges, primarily the worsening impact of climate change in the country.
In response to the devastation caused by recent typhoons, including Typhoons Carina and Kristine, which severely affected parts of Luzon, the DPWH, in cooperation with JICA, is fast-tracking updates to the master plans for key river basins. These include the Pasig-Marikina River Basin and the Cagayan River Basin.
Moderated by UPMO-FCMC Project Manager Jerry Fano, the forum featured key experts including Engineer Rosalita M. Barde from MMDA; Project Manager Michael T. Alpasan and Engineer Lydia C. Aguilar from UPMO-FCMC; Director Kondo Osamu of Japan’s Department of Water Resources & Disaster Prevention Research, Infrastructure Development Institute of Japan; Assistant Director Tsuda Morimasa of Japan Water Agency; Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PAGASA) Hydrologist Ailene R. Abelardo; and MLIT Director for International Coordination of River Engineering Maruyama Kazuki.
The event was also attended by DPWH Regional Director Khadaffy Tanggol of Cordillera Administrative Region; Director Randy R. Del Rosario of Stakeholders Relations Service; UPMO FCMC Project Managers and staff; and representatives from relevant national government agencies such as the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Finance (DOF), Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA), National Economic Development Authority (NEDA), National Irrigation Administration (NIA), National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), National Power Corporation (NPC), Climate Change Commission (CCC), Philippine Space Agency (PSA), and local government units of Caloocan, Makati, Mandaluyong, Muntinlupa, Navotas, Taguig, and Quezon City.
The Climate Change Commission (CCC) has reaffirmed the Philippines’ dedication to climate action through green economic pathways.
In a news release on Friday, the CCC said the '2025 Sustainability Forum: The Green Economies of Tomorrow' held on Jan. 31 gathered key figures from the government, business, and international organizations to fast-track the country’s transition to a sustainable, low-carbon economy.
“The private and public sectors are crucial partners in this transformation. The shift to renewable energy, electric vehicles, smart cities, and sustainable agriculture are all areas where we can advance,” Secretary Robert E.A. Borje, Vice Chairperson and Executive Director of the CCC, said.
He underscored the strong collaboration between these sectors would help drive investments in renewable energy, climate-resilient infrastructure, and green technologies.
During the forum, Borje reiterated the country’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 75 percent under its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), a crucial target under the Paris Agreement.
He identified energy, transport, waste, industry, and agriculture as the key sectors driving the NDC Implementation Plan (NDCIP).
Meanwhile, Borje also underscored the importance of a just transition plan to ensure that the transition to a low-carbon economy is fair and inclusive, ensuring that workers and vulnerable communities equitably benefit from green economic policies without being left behind.
The forum, organized by the German-Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GPCCI) in collaboration with the German Embassy, provides a vital platform for fostering collective action and developing effective climate solutions.
GPCCI president Marie Antoniette Mariano said the forum is a space for meaningful dialogue, alignment of strategies, and strengthened partnerships to drive lasting impact.
The discussions also explored ways to align Philippine climate policies with international commitments while addressing local economic and social priorities.
Borje said the Philippines’ updated NDC, set to be released this year, would incorporate emerging technologies and evolving priorities, further scaling up both adaptation and mitigation efforts.
During the forum, he also encouraged strong collaboration and collective action among countries and stakeholders in realizing their climate ambitions of a climate-smart, climate-resilient, and low-carbon sustainable future.
The recent October monthly meeting of the Philippine Mining and Exploration Association (PMEA) was filled to capacity as industry players eagerly awaited the keynote of newly appointed Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Assistant Secretary (ASec.) for Mining Concerns and concurrent OIC Director of the Mines & Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Michael Cabalda.
In his prepared speech, ASec. Cabalda highlighted a number of initiatives including: (1) pushing a proposed Department Administrative (DAO) order articulating a policy framework that would allow the country to gain from our mineral wealth; (2) streamlining the permitting process to reduce the time to 11 months or shorter; and (3) reviewing the Small Scale Mining Act to formalize small scale miners and increase their contributions. These initiatives envision a mining industry that is not only an ore supplier but a critical player in mineral processing and downstream manufacturing.
The more spirited portion of the program was the Q&A where it was apparent that the audience was keen to hear directly from Assistant Secretary Cabalda in his first engagement with industry since his appointment.
Asked how soon the MGB will be able to implement the above policy changes, particularly the reduction of the processing period for permits, Assistant Secretary Cabalda credited DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga for leading these initiatives, foremost of which is giving the MGB Director the authority to sign documents that previously needed to be cleared. He also spoke about a more active MGB with respect to the pricing of nickel, statistics on safety and environment, among others.
Most encouraging was his assurance “Help me out and I’ll try to deliver and give you what you need.” He added that the “MGB is your partner. We will be with you when you do your work.” His warning “and we will punish you when you don’t” drew laughter from the crowd.
A recurring theme was the need for communication between the government and the private sector and institutionalizing a mechanism for government to address problems raised by industry. A suggestion to hold regular dialogs with industry was well received.
In addition, Asec. Cabalda expressed the need to touch base with his ‘council of elders’ or the MGB old-timers who possess the institutional knowledge and experience to be applied to (not-so-new) issues. This is expected to promote consistency in the MGB’s interpretation and application of issuances across the different regional offices. He likewise reiterated that he intends to build on what MGB, and the regional directors have done.
Another key strategy is to digitize all records and information to eliminate the current antiquated paper-based system. With information being available online and available in real time, there will be greater transparency, as well as identification of where the bottlenecks are.
As Asec. Cabalda discussed the need for coordination with other government agencies, particularly the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples and the Department of Interior and Local Government, I recalled his comments (prior to his appointment) during the May 2024 “Mining Summit” where he said that there is no need to reinvent the wheel as there is an existing and comprehensive Minerals Action Plan prepared by the Minerals Development Council back in 2004, with specific and detailed items to address the identified challenges. Even 19 years later, it is replete with implementable action items.
It bodes well that our new MGB Director is approaching his role with openness and candor. The industry can do no less by responding in kind.
***
Postscript: Due to family commitments, I missed the Chamber of Mines’ “Digging Deeper” Policy Forum and will also miss, for the first time in recent years, PMSEA’s Annual National Mine Safety and Environment Conference (ANMSEC).
The ANMSEC has always been an opportunity for Diwata-Women in Resource Development to contribute to the discussion of important mining issues, as well inviting the participation of the ambassadors of countries which are developed mining jurisdictions.
One particularly memorable event for me was our 2012 forum featuring the Deputy Mineral Resources Minister of South Africa, Godfrey Oliphant. He was a fiery and outspoken advocate for mining, despite his once being a member of South Africa’s Communist Party. His story of how he came to realize the important role that mining played in South Africa’s economy was the perfect counterpoint to the student activists who had met him in UP Baguio.
Recognizing the contribution of taxpayers to local economic growth, the Local Government Unit of Claver named Taganito Mining Corporation (TMC) as the Overall Top Taxpayer for 2023 during its Garbo nan Claver Awards & Stakeholders’ Night on September 7, 2024.
TMC also received the Top Taxpayer Award for the Mining Category, ranked 7th for the Mining Contractors Category, and was awarded the 2024 Sponsorship Award.
Spearheaded by the Office of the Municipal Treasurer - Business Permit and Licensing Division, the event recognized businesses that have consistently fulfilled their tax obligations, playing a vital role in the municipality's growth and development.
Mayor Georgia Gokiangkee of the Municipality of Claver expressed her gratitude to the outstanding taxpayers and barangay treasurers in the municipality for their diligence in paying taxes, which benefits the municipality through projects and programs for the people of Claver.
“Tax is the lifeblood of the government. Kon wayay buwis, waya sab kitay mahimo. Ugsa husto ra gajud na ato pasidunggan an ato mga taxpayers (If there is no tax, there is nothing we can do. So it is just right that we recognize our taxpayers),” remarked Gokiangkee.
This year, Claver emerged as the Overall Most Competitive Municipality in Caraga based on the Department of Trade and Industry assessments and the Regional Competitiveness Committee for Cities and Municipalities Competitive Index in 2023.
Claver also ranked 3rd for Overall Most Competitive LGU nationwide in the 1st to 2nd class municipality category.
TMC is a subsidiary of Nickel Asia Corporation, a natural resources development company with operations in Barangay Taganito, Claver, Surigao del Norte.
The 5th edition of Geo Connect Asia (GCA) celebrates the mainstreaming of geospatial solutions across government, enterprise and non-profit, with a record number of participants on the show and supporting conferences.
Following the theme of Geospatial driven impacts: underground, land and sea to sky, the event looks to attract more than 120 companies and 3000 visitors and delegates.
GCA 2025 will be held on the 9th & 10th April in Sands Expo & Convention Centre in Singapore. The show will be co-located with Digital Construction Asia, Drones & Uncrewed Asia and Marine & Hydro Asia.
The growing influence of AI, robotics, data interoperability and security across industries will be the main theme of the Geo Autonomy Summit (formerly Geo Connect Asia Conference).
Leading speakers include:
Thomson Lai, Managing Director, Digital, AECOM
Will Cavendish, Global Digital Services Leader, Arup
Philipp Kandal, CTO, Grab
David Foo, Assistant Chief Executive Operations and Ops-Tech / Chief Data Officer, Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA)
Ms Salote Viti, Chairwoman, Pacific GIS & Remote Sensing Council
View speakers & programmes here: https://tinyurl.com/GCA2025ConferenceBrochure
Supporting conferences include the return of Digital Underground Connect and the respective launches of the Digital Construction Asia Forum and APAC Earth Observation Forum.
The growing regional impact of the event is reflected by group pavilion support from Indonesia, Sabah, Singapore and Thailand. The Organisers are also looking to increase regional attendance beyond 40% of the total, up from 32.5% in 2024.
Commenting on the growing regional reach of Geo Connect Asia, Rupert Owen, Co-founder of Geo Connect Asia says ‘’We are delighted to expand the footprint of the region’s geospatial knowledge base and share common experiences. The vulnerability of ASEAN countries to climate-induced challenges, the dynamics of urbanisation and the need to actively manage limited resources demands response from planners, operators and industry specialists. Supported by the latest geospatial solutions there is a growing belief in technology-enhanced answers to some of the most pressing challenges. Sharing these experiences is the focus of Geo Connect Asia as the regional community hub.’’
Register for the conference pass to gain access to valuable industry insights. Visit www.connect.geoconnectasia.com/regpage to secure your preferred pass. Early Bird Discounts for conference registration are available until 21st March 2025, offering a limited-time opportunity to register at a reduced rate. CPD points are available upon application.
Supported by the Singapore Land Authority, Geo Connect Asia is organised by Montgomery Events Asia. The event’s parent company, the London-based Montgomery Group, will celebrate its 130th anniversary in 2025.
About Geo Connect Asia 2025
Geo Connect Asia 2025 specifically focuses on bringing the industry together for two days of face-to-face discussions and networking on the 9th & 10th April 2025 in Halls B & C, Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Marina Bay Sands in Singapore. The event will provide
a collaborative business meeting platform for industry professionals from across South-East Asia and beyond. Discover how geospatial solutions and location intelligence can take your business to new heights and meet and network with more than 3,000 industry professionals in person, all sharing a collective vision of the global geospatial community.
The show of more than 100 companies offers a wide range of solutions to assist in the delivery of projects, applying the latest in surveying, remote sensing, location-based and operational solutions. Leading sponsors include Trimble (Gold), Emesent (Silver), Cupix, Fugro and YellowScan (Conference Sponsors).
For further information visit: https://www.GeoConnectAsia.com