In an industry long dominated by multinational giants, Paramina’s rise over the past three decades reads like a classic David-and-Goliath story. Paramina International — formerly operating as Paramina Earth Technologies — was founded in 1996 as a Philippine-based mining contractor and technical solutions provider with a straightforward goal: fill a gap in the market for a responsive, locally grounded partner capable of delivering reliable, high-quality services to mining companies.
Today, as Paramina approaches its 30th anniversary in 2026, the company has transformed from a small challenger into a respected player in underground mining and technical consulting, with projects spanning multiple countries and a growing international footprint.
“When Paramina started the business, we were stepping into an industry dominated by global giants — a true David-and-Goliath landscape,” said Karl Resabal. “The market gap we set out to address was clear: customers needed a reliable, responsive, and locally grounded partner who could deliver high-quality solutions without the delays, bureaucracy, or distance of multinational brands.”
Over time, the company’s mission has broadened beyond simply competing with larger firms. Paramina now positions itself as a comprehensive solutions provider for the mining industry.
“Over the past three decades, that mission has evolved from simply challenging the giants to redefining what customers should expect from a trusted industry partner,” Resabal said. “Today, Paramina focuses on delivering complete, end-to-end solutions built on engineering expertise, service reliability, and long-term partnership — a far cry from the small challenger we once were.”
.jpg)
Landmark projects across Asia-Pacific
Paramina’s journey has been defined by several milestone projects that demonstrated both its technical capability and willingness to tackle complex mining environments.
One of its earliest landmark engagements was supporting the development of Philex’s second trackless mining operation in the Philippines. The project involved the deployment of hydraulic long-hole drilling systems, helping modernize underground mining practices in the country.
Another major achievement came in Vietnam, where Paramina helped establish the first two underground gold mines in the country. The project marked a historic milestone for Vietnam’s mining sector while showcasing Paramina’s ability to support pioneering international ventures.
The company also contributed to one of its most technically challenging assignments in Papua New Guinea — the opening of an underground gold mine located at about 1,300 meters above sea level. The remote terrain required transporting equipment and personnel by helicopter, highlighting the company’s ability to operate in demanding and logistically complex environments.
Integrated model and digital solutions
A key differentiator for Paramina has been its integrated business model. Unlike many companies that focus solely on contracting or consultancy, Paramina combines underground mining services with technical solutions, mine planning support and digital tools.
Central to this approach is its partnership with Dassault Systems GEOVIA, a provider of advanced mining software and platform solutions.
“Paramina’s partnership with GEOVIA has allowed us to partner with the biggest mining companies in our country, both local and international players, and has positioned itself as the mining solutions authority in the Philippine mining sector, not only as a solutions provider for GEOVIA but also as a mining consultancy and contractor,” Resabal said.
Through this collaboration, the company helps mining operators implement digital tools such as Surpac, Whittle and MineSched to improve mine planning, scheduling, and project evaluation.
“Many of our clients swear by the efficiency of using GEOVIA programs such as Surpac, Whittle, and MineSched to optimize their mining operations, be it in planning, scheduling, or even in evaluating the financial viability of a project,” he said. “Through our guidance in software training, they are able to maximize their use of the software in a way that their operations are done smarter, faster, and more efficiently.”
Global reach driven by reputation
While Paramina began as a local Philippine contractor, its work has increasingly expanded beyond national borders. According to the company, about 70 percent of its projects today are located overseas.
“Around 70% of Paramina’s projects are now overseas,” Resabal said. “We continue to expand wherever our expertise is needed and where meaningful opportunities arise.”
Interestingly, the company’s international growth has come largely through reputation rather than traditional marketing.
“Despite not engaging in traditional advertising, our work has consistently spoken for itself — and through word of mouth, we have been selected for major international projects across multiple countries,” he said.
Sustainability and stewardship
Like many players in the mining sector, Paramina is also navigating increasing scrutiny around environmental, social and governance standards.
The company frames its approach in simple terms that reflect its long-term relationship with project sites.
“We treat our mining project as our home. We take care of our home,” Resabal said.
Preparing the next generation
As Paramina looks toward its fourth decade, leadership transition is already part of the company’s long-term strategy.
“In the next five years, Paramina will turnover the management and operations to younger engineers and managers,” Resabal said, signaling a deliberate shift to the next generation of industry leaders.
The goal is to ensure continuity while maintaining the company’s core values of resilience and reliability.
“Because of its resilience through every high and low, Paramina has earned a reputation for consistency, integrity, and strength,” he said. “By our 30th anniversary, I would like clients and industry peers to describe Paramina as one of the top mining contractors in the Philippines — a company that has weathered challenges, adapted to change, and continued to deliver exceptional results no matter the circumstances.”
Three decades after entering the industry as an underdog, Paramina now finds itself firmly established as a trusted partner for mining projects across the Asia-Pacific region — proof that even in a Goliath-dominated sector, determined challengers can build lasting influence.
