DMCI Mining Corp. is targeting a record 3.2 million tons of nickel ore shipments in 2026, driven by expanding operations and improving market conditions.
The mining unit of DMCI Holdings Inc. said the projected output would surpass its previous highs, supported by the expected contribution of its new mine in Palawan and sustained production from its Zambales operations.
The company is banking on the ramp-up of its Long Point nickel project in Palawan, which is seen to significantly boost output once fully operational. Industry conditions have also improved, with stronger nickel prices supporting the company’s growth outlook.
DMCI Mining earlier reported a record production of 2 million wet metric tons (WMT) of nickel ore in 2025, up 33 percent from 1.5 million WMT in 2024, with shipments reaching 1.9 million WMT.
The increase was attributed to higher output from its Zambales mines and initial operations at the Long Point project, alongside firmer global nickel prices.
Company president Tulsi Das Reyes said the firm is optimistic about sustaining growth momentum, citing favorable market fundamentals and ongoing expansion efforts.
The company also noted that improving nickel prices have strengthened revenues, with benchmark Philippine laterite nickel ore prices rising significantly in 2025.
DMCI Mining said it remains focused on scaling up production while advancing development projects, positioning the company to capitalize on recovering demand in the global nickel market.
The company currently operates two mines in Sta. Cruz, Zambales, through Zambales Diversified Metals Corporation (ZDMC) and Zambales Chromite Mining Company (ZCMC). The company is also actively developing new mining sites in Palawan to expand its operations through Berong Nickel Corporation (BNC).
ZCMC and ZDMC extract nickel ore, chromite and iron laterite using safe, low-cost surface mining techniques. These operations do not require chemical processing or complex waste handling to produce mid- to high-grade nickel ore for export to China, Japan and other markets.
In 2021, BNC received the prestigious Presidential Mineral Industry Environmental Award for its exemplary performance in environmental protection, safety, community development and social responsibility.
