Silangan Mindanao Mining Co., Inc. (SMMCI) welcomed science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) students from Caraga Regional Science High School and Surigao City National High School for a one-day educational mine site tour at the Silangan Project, marking the company’s first official site visit of 2026.
The visit was part of an academic immersion program aimed at exposing students to modern mining operations and responsible mining practices in the region. The students were accompanied by Engr. Francis Glenn N. Suante, chief of the Mine Safety, Environment, and Social Development Division of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Region XIII, underscoring the collaboration among industry, government and educational institutions.
Upon arrival at the site, the delegation was received by SMMCI Project Lead Engr. Venancio Gel A. Romero and briefed on safety protocols by SMMCI Safety Manager Engr. Joel Reyes to ensure a safe and productive learning experience.
Guided by SMMCI’s technical team, the students were introduced to the overall operations of the Silangan Project, including environmental safeguards, community development initiatives and core mining activities. A highlight of the tour was the descent to the Level +95 production level, where the students experienced the underground mining environment. This portion of the visit was led by Head of Planning and Engineering Engr. Ryan C. Pacot, together with safety supervisors.
The tour continued at the Silangan Process Plant, where the students were introduced to mineral processing and hydrometallurgy by the plant’s technical team. The program concluded at the pavilion area overlooking the Silangan Project, giving the students a panoramic view of the operation.
During the culminating program, students shared reflections on their experience, noting their appreciation for learning how mining operations are conducted alongside environmental protection measures and employee safety practices.
“I would like to thank the entire Silangan Mindanao Mining Co., Inc. team for their guidance and support throughout this tour. I truly believe that these students are the future ambassadors of the mining industry, not only in the region, but across the country. Immersive experiences like this play a vital role in helping them understand responsible mining and in shaping their future career paths,” Suante said.
SMMCI said it remains committed to strengthening partnerships with educational institutions and working closely with MGB Region XIII to help develop informed, responsible and future-ready leaders through initiatives that promote awareness of responsible mining.
