OceanaGold (Philippines) Inc. has completed a mine rescue training program for 15 members of the Didipio Mine Emergency Response Team (ERT) and volunteer responders from various departments as part of efforts to strengthen emergency preparedness and workplace safety.
The nine-day program provided participants with intensive training in first aid, incident response, rescue techniques, and breathing apparatus operations, culminating in realistic underground rescue simulations designed to test readiness in high-risk environments.
The company said the training forms part of its continuing commitment to maintaining a strong safety culture across its operations and ensuring personnel are prepared to respond effectively during emergencies.
The program was facilitated by Dean McHardie, a health and safety professional with more than 25 years of experience in high-risk industries, including mining.
McHardie said the training enhances the capabilities of the emergency response team and helps ensure preparedness for incidents that may occur despite extensive safety measures.
"The program is a valuable initiative that strengthens the capability of the Emergency Response Team — an essential preparation for situations that, while unlikely, require full readiness at all times," he said.
Emergency response teams play a critical role in mining operations by providing immediate assistance during accidents, medical emergencies, fires, and other incidents that may arise in underground and surface mining environments.
According to OceanaGold, the training combined classroom instruction with practical exercises to equip participants with the skills needed to respond safely and effectively under demanding conditions.
The underground rescue simulations replicated emergency scenarios that responders could encounter in an operating mine, allowing participants to apply their training in realistic settings.
The Didipio Mine, located on the boundary of Nueva Vizcaya and Quirino provinces, is one of the country's largest gold and copper mining operations.
OceanaGold said initiatives such as the mine rescue training program reinforce the company's commitment to employee safety, operational readiness, and continuous improvement in emergency response capabilities.
The company added that maintaining a highly trained emergency response team is a key component of its efforts to protect its workforce and support safe mining operations.
