A Multi-partite Monitoring Team (MMT) convened from January 27 to 30, 2026, to conduct a comprehensive validation of the Hinatuan Mining Corporation-Tagana-an Nickel Project (HMC-TNP), focusing on the implementation of its Environmental Protection and Enhancement Program (EPEP) for the third and fourth quarters of 2025, as well as the project’s annual environmental performance.
The four-day assessment involved on-site inspections across the HMC-TNP operations, including mining areas, waste management facilities, reforestation sites, and water quality monitoring stations. The team verified compliance with national and local environmental regulations, reviewed the effectiveness of mitigation measures, and assessed the company’s efforts in protecting biodiversity, conserving natural resources, and enhancing environmental conditions in surrounding communities.
Collaborative Oversight
The validation exercise brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, reflecting a collaborative approach to responsible mining. Members of the MMT included:
- MGB Region XIII – Chairperson
- EMB Region XIII – Co-chairperson
- DENR CENRO/CDD – Member
- DENR PENRO – Member
- DENR CENRO – Member
- Department of Health – Member
- REACH Foundation – Member
- Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish Church – Member
- MENRO-Tagana-an – Member
- BLGU-Talavera – Member
Through active engagement with HMC-TNP management and staff, the team reviewed documentation, conducted field verifications, and observed the company’s environmental programs in action.
Promoting Sustainable Mining
The MMT emphasized the critical role of sustained EPEP implementation in ensuring that economic development is balanced with environmental protection and community well-being.
The validation exercise reinforces the shared commitment of stakeholders, regulators, and the company to responsible mining. Protecting natural resources today ensures their availability for future generations.
The Hinatuan project, part of the Philippines’ growing nickel sector, continues to demonstrate how large-scale mining operations can integrate environmental stewardship into daily operations, particularly in reforestation, water management, and biodiversity conservation. By validating EPEP performance, the MMT strengthens transparency, accountability, and confidence in the project’s environmental management practices.
This exercise highlights how regulatory agencies, community representatives, and civil society groups can work together to support sustainable development while safeguarding the environment, the team added.
HMC-TNP management reaffirmed its commitment to continuous improvement in environmental performance and adherence to the highest standards of sustainable mining.
