The 31st Annual Mining Symposium and Exhibits, organized by the Mindanao Association of Mining Engineers (MAEM) International, Inc. was successfully held on June 2 and 3 at the SMX Convention Center, SM Lanang, Davao City.
Under the inaugural leadership of Engr. Alfredo T. Relampagos, who served as the newly elected MAEM President, the two-day event brought together mining professionals, stakeholders, and innovators from across the country and abroad to explore the future of the mining sector.
This year’s symposium was anchored on the theme, “The Future of Mining Driving Innovation, Strengthening Responsibility, and Building Resilient Economy.”
It highlighted the industry's commitment to being forward-looking, accountable, and environmentally responsible while contributing to the development of a strong and adaptable economy.
MAEM International, Inc.'s annual event spanned four days, with two days dedicated to extracurricular activities and the following two days focused on the symposium and exhibits.
Booth Exhibits
On the morning of June 2, participant registration processed smoothly as attendees arrived and were welcomed with cultural dance performance.
The Symposium and Exhibits officially opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Engr. Relampagos along with Engr. Francisco J. Arañez, Jr (PSEM President), Engr. Teodorico A. Sandoval (OIC, Assistant Director, MGB Central Office), and Beverly Mae M. Brebante (Regional Director, MGB XI).
The exhibits ran for two days, offering participating companies the opportunity to showcase new equipment and innovations beneficial to the mining industry, economy, and community.
Symposium
In the afternoon, the symposium began—not just as a formal gathering, but as a forum for sharing ideas, perspectives, and industry insight. It featured 18 technical presentations delivered by both national and international experts.
Topics covered a wide range of fields, including Mine Planning, Resource Estimation, Geotechnical and Hydrogeological Risk Management, Drilling and Blasting Technology, Safety Engineering, Human Resource Development, Small-Scale and Coal Mining, Tailings Management, and Environmental Sustainability.
The topics and presenters are as follows:
- Software-based Mineral Resource - Reserve Estimation - By Engr Josel P. Retardo of Apex Mining Co, Inc.
- Unified Geotechnical Monitoring Innovating For a Responsible and Resilient Mining Future - By Geol. Sydharta Kenia D. Aguilar of GroundProbe.
- Enhancing Safety and Efficiency in Underground Mining: The Role of Advanced Proximity Detection and Collision Avoidance Systems - By Engr. Justin Alfred V. Palino of Sandvik Tamrock Philippines, Inc.
- Applications of Radar Technology in Slope Stability Analysis for Open-Pit Mines: Enhancing Safety and Predictive Monitoring - By Geol. Leovigildo O. Delos Reyes Jr. of Carmen Copper Corporation.
- Continuing Professional Specialization Program (CPSP) Updates - By Engr. Ramon N. Santos, Chairman of the Board of Mining Engineering at Professional Regulation Commission.
- Developing Innovative Small-Scale Mining Techniques for Different Coal Deposit Geometries in the Philippines: Maximizing Resource Utilization and Local Opportunities - By Engr. Ernie L. Indiola of NATELI’ Mining Engineering Services.
- Normet launches a remote explosives charging system – a revolution for underground mining - By Engr. Anssi Mykkänen of Normet
- The Modified Dry Stack (DST) Concept: An Alternative Experimental Research to Conventional Slurry Tails Deposition and Paste Fill - By Engr. Virgillo N. Tumbokon of Apex Mining Co, Inc.
- Viola Water Technologies for the Mining Sector - By Ms. GAO Chongyi of Gotesco Marketing, Inc.
- Sustainable Mined Land Reclamation: The Pujada Nickel Case Study - By Arvin L. Carlom, PhD, EnP of Hallmark Mining Corporation.
- Silver Recovery in the TVI Balabag Gold and Silver Project - By Jose Menardo Manicio of TVI Resource Development Philippines, Inc.
- The Gutalac Nickel Project: The First Nickel Project in ZamPen - By Geol Rene Boy Velasco of Zamboanga Nickel Corporation.
The two-day event offered a well-rounded and engaging experience for everyone involved. It aimed to share valuable insights from recent developments and proven practices in the mining industry.
More than just a learning opportunity, the symposium provided a space for open discussion and collaboration. Participants had numerous opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, industry leaders, and technical experts—sharing ideas and asking questions, to find solutions to the current challenges facing the global mining sector.
Networking
In addition to the informative session, the two-day event also offered ample opportunities for networking and meaningful connections among professionals in the evening.
The event featured live band entertainment that energized the atmosphere, along with a variety of food and beverages for attendees to enjoy as they engaged and unwound with fellow participants.
Extracurricular Activities
This year’s event featured a variety of extracurricular activities that fostered camaraderie and engagement among participants.
A friendly badminton tournament was held on June 1 at Smash Ville Fitness Center with matches played between representatives from MGB XI and students from the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP), showcasing sportsmanship and friendly competition.
The Golf Tournament took place on June 4 at Palos Verdes and Country Club, bringing together industry professionals for a relaxing and competitive day on the greens.
To cap off the week, the Island-Hopping activity offered attendees a chance to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of Samal Island. Participants who joined experienced the vibrant scenery and coastal charm of the island, making for a memorable conclusion to the four-day event.
As the organization moves forward, the ideas shared, connections made, and energy from this year’s symposium are expected to keep the narrative going and help push new efforts that support a mining industry that’s more responsible, innovative, and ready for the future.
