The Mines and Geosciences Bureau is strengthening its offshore mineral exploration capabilities, as its Marine Geology and Survey Division (MGSD) advances what it describes as a “blue frontier” initiative anchored on new discoveries and technical training.
In a recent program, the bureau rolled out a training initiative on GEOVIA Surpac, a widely used geology and mine planning platform, to enhance the technical capacity of its geologists and engineers in handling complex resource modelling and marine datasets.
The MGB said the initiative supports its push to better understand and develop offshore mineral resources, an area seen as a potential growth frontier for the country’s mining sector.
The Surpac training covered key competencies, including geological database creation, 3D modelling and resource estimation—tools considered critical in evaluating mineral deposits and planning extraction strategies. Such software enables users to analyse spatial geological data and generate models for resource assessment and mine design.
Officials said building in-house expertise is essential as offshore exploration presents more complex technical and environmental challenges than traditional land-based mining.
The bureau noted that the MGSD has been ramping up efforts to map and assess marine mineral potential, aligning with its broader mandate to manage and develop the country’s mineral resources sustainably.
The training initiative also forms part of the MGB’s continuing professional development programmes aimed at equipping personnel with industry-standard tools and methodologies, ensuring that government-led exploration keeps pace with global mining practices.
The MGB, an attached agency of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, is tasked with overseeing mineral resource development and geohazard assessment in the Philippines.
