By: Paramina Earth Technologies Inc. / Thea Samantha C. Go, EM
Profitability in the mining industry depends increasingly on using digital tools as leverage to optimise resource extraction, manage risks, and align operations with strict regulations.
GEOVIA demonstrates how the use of digital solutions in the planning of modern mines transforms operations from cost centres into strategic profit drivers. Surpac enables higher ore recovery through precise 3D modelling and efficient mine designs, while Whittle-driven pit optimisations deliver improvements in project net present value (NPV).
When combined with MineSched’s gains in fleet utilisation and target achievement, and the 3DEXPERIENCE platform’s acceleration in decision-making, these tools are proving indispensable for achieving responsible, sustainable, and economically viable operations — especially in challenging environments such as the Philippines, where mining faces some of the world’s most restrictive regulations.
Precision in Resource Estimation with Surpac
GEOVIA Surpac has modernised resource estimation by replacing manual estimation methods with reliable precision. Where geologists once relied on approximations and paper maps, the software allows the creation of 3D geological models that truly reflect the geologist’s understanding of the deposit.
Mines using Surpac report better planning outcomes — clearer understanding of their reserves, fewer surprises during extraction, and more efficient use of equipment. By transforming guesswork into confidence, mines using Surpac ensure every ton extracted maximises value while minimising environmental impact. Intelligent features such as constraint-based design matter even more in places like the Philippines, where the complex geology of ore bodies and strict local regulations leave little room for error.
What makes Surpac indispensable to mine sites is having their own block models show exactly where high-grade materials sit, and adaptable plans whenever new drill data comes in — making every technical decision based on fact. For Philippine mines facing operational limits and environmental scrutiny, this means extracting maximum value from each deposit while staying compliant — turning geological challenges into manageable opportunities.
Optimised Scheduling Through MineSched
Many mines struggle with poor coordination between teams. Equipment, workers, engineers, and geologists often plan separately, leading to wasted time and missed targets. MineSched fixes this by bringing all scheduling work into one system, synchronising workflows to achieve one goal.
In places like the Philippines, where sudden storms or permit issues can stop work, this helps mines adjust quickly. Global mines adopting MineSched demonstrate measurable improvements in operational efficiency, where the real benefit is making operations simpler:
No more guessing about which equipment goes where, less waiting between tasks, and faster responses when problems arise — with built-in project management tools to help mines stay on track and on schedule. That means steadier output despite tough working conditions — fewer delays, less wasted money, and better compliance.
Strategic Pit Optimisation with Whittle
Whittle transforms how mines plan their operations by using advanced algorithms to optimise pit designs, quickly becoming the gold standard for those looking to maximise their project economics. Where mining engineers once relied on experience and trial and error, the software now provides data-backed solutions that extract maximum value while respecting environmental limits.
What makes Whittle work for challenging operations is that it creates pit designs that maximise recoverable ore, minimise unnecessary land disturbance, and adapt mine plans as market conditions or regulations change.
For Philippine mines facing tight margins, community expectations, and a volatile metals market, this means developing pits that are both profitable and sustainable — turning difficult trade-offs into manageable solutions.
To be continued in Part 2, where we'll explore how the 3DEXPERIENCE platform unifies these tools into a seamless workflow, examine their combined impact on Philippine operations, and reveal how Paramina helps mines implement these solutions for maximum benefit.
📞 Contact our team for a free consultation at paramina_solutions@paramina.com
