As the first quarter of 2026 gets under way, Silangan Mindanao Mining Co., Inc. (SMMCI) has entered a critical stage of final preparations ahead of its anticipated commercial production, marking a major milestone in the development of the Silangan copper-gold project in Surigao del Norte.
The milestone was underscored by the first site visit of the year led by President and Chief Executive Officer Engr. Eulalio B. Austin Jr. The visit highlighted strong leadership, technical discipline and progress across key project components as the company pushes toward commissioning its facilities.
On the first day of the visit, attention focused on crucial infrastructure, including the Tailings Storage Facility (TSF) in the municipality of Sison, which is set to receive its first tailings in the coming months. Accompanied by members of the management committee, the project management team and project contractors, Austin assessed site readiness and verified alignment with project schedules.
The delegation also inspected the underground mine, the heart of the Silangan Project, where Austin met with technical teams to review operations and provide guidance grounded in his decades of mining experience.
Day two centred on the process plant, one of the most critical facilities at Silangan. Joined by technical specialists from the process plant contractor and on-site engineers, Austin led a detailed walkthrough of the facility. Each major component was reviewed not just as a symbol of progress but as part of the company’s commitment to functionality, accountability and timely completion ahead of the next site visit.
Latest updates show that the Silangan Project has entered the final stretch of development as it readies for commissioning and first metal production, targeted for the first quarter of 2026. Mine development, particularly at Level 95, remains on track, with production drifts expected to be completed by February, clearing the way for initial metal output by March. Stockpiled ore at the surface is sufficient to support early operations once processing begins.
Despite unfavourable weather conditions, progress across the Silangan Project has remained resilient. Guided by the leadership of the company’s president and CEO, bolstered by the expertise of technical teams and consultants, and supported by stakeholders — particularly host communities — the project continues to advance steadily.
The Silangan mine is expected to make a significant contribution to the Philippine mining sector when it comes online, with plans under discussion to progressively ramp up production to take advantage of rising global metal prices and potential foreign investment interest.
With construction and commissioning activities progressing as planned, the Silangan Project is now firmly positioned for the transition to commercial production. The countdown continues.
