The Philippine Society of Mining Engineers (PSEM), in partnership with the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) MIMAROPA Region, concluded the Mining Engineers' Convention (MinECon 2026) with resounding success, reaffirming the mining sector's commitment to responsible mineral development, environmental stewardship, and strengthened collaboration among stakeholders.
Held in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, this year's convention brought together mining professionals, government representatives, industry leaders, academe, and stakeholders from across the country under the theme, "Engineering the Future: Sustainable Minerals for a Resilient Nation." The convention served as a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange, innovation, and collaboration toward building a more sustainable, resilient, and future-ready mining industry.
The event formally opened with messages from leaders of the Philippine Society of Mining Engineers (PSEM), highlighted by the welcome message of Engr. Ronelbert A. Suguitan, President of the PSEM Palawan Chapter, and opening remarks from Engr. Francisco J. Arañes Jr., PSEM National President, who emphasised the profession's continuing role in advancing responsible mineral development and engineering excellence.
Guest speaker Atty. Noel E. Aquino, Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Officer (PG-ENRO) of Palawan, delivered a message underscoring environmental stewardship, sustainable resource management, and the shared responsibility of protecting natural resources while enabling development opportunities.
Delivering the keynote address, MGB Director Larry M. Heradez emphasised that the future of the mining industry depends on achieving a balance between mineral development and environmental protection through responsible governance and collective accountability.
He underscored that mining extends beyond economic contribution and must continue to serve as a catalyst for nation-building, community development, and long-term environmental sustainability. Director Heradez highlighted the importance of strengthening collaboration among government institutions, industry stakeholders, local communities, and professional organisations to ensure that mining practices remain sustainable, inclusive, and responsive to future challenges.
He likewise encouraged the industry to continue embracing responsible mining principles that generate lasting social, environmental, and economic benefits.
Throughout the convention, participants engaged in technical sessions and discussions featuring industry experiences, technological innovations, research initiatives, and emerging practices shaping the future of mining.
Among the featured presentations was "Advancements in the Practice of Mining Engineering in the Philippines – Major Undertakings and Accomplishments in 2026," delivered by Engr. Ramon N. Santos, Chairperson of the Professional Regulatory Board of Mining Engineering, highlighting developments and strategic initiatives that are strengthening the practice of mining engineering nationwide.
Engr. Michael V. Cabalda, Assistant Secretary for Mining Concerns at the DENR, presented "Quo Vadis Mining: Securing Sustainable Mineral Supply Chains Through Resource Nationalism and Global Cooperation," emphasising the need to balance national interests with international collaboration in securing long-term mineral sustainability.
Meanwhile, Engr. Robert T. Francisco of Hinatuan Mining Corporation delivered the presentation "First, Decide to Be Sustainable and Responsible," highlighting the importance of integrating sustainability into mining operations and decision-making processes.
Additional industry and academic presentations explored green energy transition, operational excellence, mine rehabilitation, environmental commitments, geospatial assessment, wastewater treatment, renewable energy systems, and emerging technologies in mining.
Among the notable presentations were:
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Championing Green Energy Transition at the Toledo Copper Mines, by Atty. Axel G. Tumulak of Atlas Consolidated Mining and Development Corporation;
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Integration of Continuous Improvement in Mining Operations, by Engr. Scarlet Gwen C. Facsoy of OceanaGold Philippines;
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The TDVT Project: A Gravity-Driven Dewatering Solution, by Engr. Haiza S. Pigkaulan of Apex Mining Co., Inc.;
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Synchronizing Mine Development and Rehabilitation, by Engr. Armando S. Baldonado Jr.;
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State of the Caraga Minerals Industry: Economic, Environmental and Social Commitments, by Engr. Francis Glenn N. Suante of MGB Caraga Region; and
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Research presentations from the University of the Philippines Diliman covering mine slope safety, geospatial mineral assessment, mine wastewater treatment, renewable energy optimisation, and innovations in mining education.
A key highlight of MinECon 2026 was the strong participation and support of mining stakeholders nationwide, reflecting the industry's shared commitment to responsible mining, environmental stewardship, and inclusive development.
Another significant feature of the convention was the conferment of the Outstanding Mining Engineers (TOEM) Awards, recognising individuals who demonstrated exemplary leadership and outstanding contributions to the advancement of the mining profession.
This year's awardees were:
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Engr. Uldarico C. Relente – TOEM Awardee in the Field of Mine Management
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Engr. Ernesto Javier – TOEM Awardee in the Field of Underground Mining
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Engr. Virgilio M. Tumbokon – TOEM Awardee in the Field of Mine Technology Research
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Engr. Mark John S. Pag-alaman – TOEM Awardee in the Field of Academe
The convention also featured the election and oath-taking of PSEM officers for CY 2026–2028, followed by the President's Report and closing remarks delivered by Engr. Felizardo A. Gacad Jr., CESO V, Regional Director of MGB MIMAROPA and newly elected National President of PSEM.
In his closing message, Gacad expressed his appreciation to all delegates, partners, sponsors, and organisers whose collective efforts contributed to the success of MinECon 2026. He emphasised that the convention reflects the evolving role of the mining sector in nation-building, where engineering excellence, innovation, environmental responsibility, and sustainability work together to create meaningful and lasting impacts for communities and future generations.
As a fitting culmination of the convention, MGB MIMAROPA spearheaded a simultaneous nationwide tree-planting activity on 12 June 2026 in celebration of Philippine Environment Month and in support of the successful conduct of MinECon 2026.
Led by Gacad, the initiative mobilised more than 2,000 participants from MGB regional offices, mining companies, local government units, partner agencies, and host communities across the country. Together, they planted a total of 23,937 seedlings of various indigenous and fruit-bearing tree species at identified planting sites nationwide, symbolising the mining industry's united commitment to environmental restoration, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience.
The simultaneous tree-planting activity served not only as the convention's culminating event but also as a tangible demonstration that responsible mining extends beyond mineral production to the protection and restoration of the environment. It reinforced the industry's collective resolve to pursue sustainable development through concrete actions that leave a lasting positive impact on communities and the environment.
As MinECon 2026 concluded with resounding success, the convention left behind more than valuable technical discussions and strengthened professional partnerships. It inspired a renewed commitment across the mining sector to advance responsible mineral development while planting 23,937 living symbols of hope and sustainability. The legacy of this year's convention will continue to grow alongside the trees planted throughout the country.
