Philex Mining Corporation, one of the oldest and largest copper and gold producers in Southeast Asia, has been granted an Exploration Permit (EP) by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) to conduct mineral exploration in Pangasinan. The approval reinforces the government’s commitment to responsible mining and the company’s efforts to sustain long-term resource development in the country.
The permit was formally signed at the MGB Central Office in Quezon City. Among those present were Victor Francisco, Philex Vice President for Environment and Community Relations; Noel Oliveros, Division Manager for Exploration; Eulalio Austin Jr., Philex President and CEO; Michael Cabalda, Department of Environment and Natural Resources Assistant Secretary for Mining Concerns and concurrent MGB OIC-Director; Danilo Delena, MGB Mining Tenements Management Division Chief; and Francis Joseph Ballesteros Jr., Philex Corporate Affairs and Communications Head.
Under the Philippine Mining Act of 1995, an EP grants the right to explore for all types of minerals in a specified area, with the Mines and Geosciences Bureau retaining authority to grant such permits to qualified applicants. The document allows Philex to undertake technical and scientific studies to determine the potential for mineral development in Pangasinan, subject to strict environmental safeguards and consultations with host communities.
A legacy in Philippine mining
Founded in 1955, Philex Mining is regarded as a pioneer in the Philippine minerals industry. The company operates the Padcal Mine in Benguet, which began commercial operations in 1958 and remains the country’s first large-scale underground mining operation. Padcal has been a major producer of copper, gold, and silver for more than six decades, contributing significantly to government revenues, community development, and employment in Northern Luzon.
Beyond Padcal, Philex has also advanced exploration and development projects aimed at ensuring its future growth. Its Silangan Copper-Gold Project in Surigao del Norte is among the largest mining investments in the country, projected to produce billions worth of mineral output over its mine life. Silangan is designed with advanced technologies and sustainability measures, positioning it as a next-generation model for responsible mining in the Philippines.
Sustaining growth through exploration
The Pangasinan EP provides Philex with an opportunity to diversify and strengthen its resource pipeline. Exploration activities will focus on identifying mineralized zones that may support future commercial operations, which in turn can generate local employment, infrastructure, and social programs for surrounding communities.
The new mining permit emphasized the company’s commitment to responsible mineral development, reinforcing partnerships with stakeholders and aligning with national goals for sustainable resource use.
With its track record of balancing production with environmental stewardship and community engagement, Philex is positioning itself to continue as a leading force in Philippine mining. The latest EP underscores both the government’s and the company’s determination to responsibly unlock the country’s mineral potential.
