The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) MIMAROPA Region has formalized a multi-stakeholder effort to rehabilitate the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center (PWRCC), marking a key milestone under its flagship “Magbigay Gaan sa Buhay – Project Connect.”
The memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed on April 22 in Makati City, bringing together operating mining firms in the region, including Berong Nickel Corporation, Coral Bay Nickel Corporation, Citinickel Mines and Development Corporation, Graymont (Philippines) Inc., Ipilan Nickel Corporation, and Rio Tuba Nickel Mining Corporation.
The agreement formalizes commitments from stakeholders to support the rehabilitation and enhancement of the PWRCC, a facility dedicated to wildlife protection, conservation and environmental education in Palawan.
MGB said the initiative reflects efforts to go beyond its regulatory mandate by fostering partnerships that deliver long-term benefits to communities and ecosystems. It added that the program builds on earlier milestones under Project Connect, including the publication of “Minerals to Milestones,” a coffee table book documenting best practices in responsible minerals development in Palawan.
MGB MIMAROPA Regional Director Felizardo A. Gacad Jr. underscored the importance of collaboration in achieving sustainable development goals, saying progress is best driven by collective action.
Meanwhile, Natural Resources Development Corporation President Benjamin D. Turgano emphasized the value of “convergence with purpose,” noting that coordinated efforts among institutions, industries and stakeholders can yield more sustainable and impactful outcomes.
The event also featured a presentation of proposed rehabilitation initiatives for the PWRCC, including facility upgrades, improved access and environmental enhancement measures aimed at strengthening its capacity for wildlife care and conservation.
MGB said the agreement highlights a growing partnership between government and the mining industry, reinforcing a shared commitment to responsible resource development and environmental stewardship.
The bureau added that Project Connect will continue to advance collaborative and inclusive initiatives designed to deliver lasting impact across the MIMAROPA region.
