FCF Minerals Corp. planted hundreds of native tree seedlings and bamboo propagules as part of a tree-growing activity held on June 12 in celebration of Environment Month and Philippine Independence Day.

The activity, conducted at the company's Stage 6 Haul Road area, brought together 41 employees from the Mine Environmental Protection and Enhancement Office (MEPEO) and the Legal and Compliance Department.

Participants planted 400 seedlings of endemic and indigenous tree species, including narra, molave, tuai, tibig, hauili, uisak, kalios and balobo, as well as 120 bamboo bayog propagules.

FCF said the initiative was aimed at promoting environmental stewardship and reinforcing the company's commitment to sustainable development, biodiversity conservation and environmental protection.

Following the planting activity, participants applied rice straw, or dayami, as mulch to help retain soil moisture, protect the ground surface and improve soil fertility as the material decomposes naturally.

The company said the practice supports healthy plant growth and increases the likelihood of seedling survival in rehabilitation areas.

FCF Minerals operates the Runruno Gold-Molybdenum Project in Quezon, Nueva Vizcaya, one of the country's largest producing gold mines. The mine is operated under a Financial or Technical Assistance Agreement and is majority owned by the United Kingdom-listed company Metals Exploration Plc.

Over the years, FCF has implemented progressive mine rehabilitation, reforestation and environmental management programs as part of its commitment to responsible mining and sustainable development. The company regularly undertakes tree-planting, watershed protection and biodiversity conservation activities in partnership with local communities and government agencies.

FCF said initiatives such as the recent tree-growing activity form part of its broader efforts to restore ecosystems, protect biodiversity and preserve the environment for future generations while supporting the long-term sustainability of its mining operations.

Runruno-based FCF Minerals Corp. conducted a two-day benchmarking visit to a nickel mining operation in Palawan as part of preparations for the implementation of its Final Mine Rehabilitation and/or Decommissioning Plan (FMRDP) next year.

The visit, held on May 19 and 20, brought together representatives from the company, key stakeholders and officials from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau Region 2 (MGB-R2) to study mine closure and rehabilitation practices at Berong Nickel Corporation in Quezon, Palawan.

The delegation included officials from Barangay Runruno led by village chief John Babli-ing, representatives from the municipal government of Quezon headed by Mayor Anabelle Mae Binwag, and Provincial Planning and Development Officer Engr. Edgardo Sabado of Nueva Vizcaya.

FCF said the benchmarking activity was intended to provide stakeholders with a deeper understanding of mine rehabilitation and closure processes ahead of the company's planned FMRDP implementation in 2027.

The group was welcomed by Berong Nickel management and staff led by Safety and Health Superintendent Rolando Sajot and Environment Department Head Jaypee Dela Cruz.

During the visit, Berong Nickel shared its experiences and best practices in occupational safety and health, environmental management and community development. Company officials also presented details of their ongoing FMRDP implementation, including challenges encountered and measures adopted to address them.

The discussions were complemented by an onsite visit to the mine area, where participants were given the opportunity to observe rehabilitation activities and seek clarification on various aspects of mine closure planning.

The delegation also met with Quezon, Palawan Mayor Lily Torrico and members of the Barangay Berong Council, who shared their perspectives on local governance and the role of communities in mine rehabilitation and transition planning.

Berong Nickel, which operates under DMCI Mining Corporation, is currently in its fourth year of FMRDP implementation. Rehabilitation activities are targeted for completion and turnover of the site to the Quezon local government by 2028.

FCF, MGB-R2 and participating stakeholders expressed appreciation to Berong Nickel and the Quezon municipal government for hosting the benchmarking activity and sharing lessons learned, which the company said would help strengthen its own mine closure and rehabilitation preparations.

ASEAN member states have taken another step toward developing a regional critical minerals strategy aimed at strengthening supply chain resilience, attracting investment and positioning Southeast Asia as a key player in the global energy transition.

The Second Regional Workshop on the Development of the ASEAN Critical Minerals Strategy for Regional Resilience and Sustainable Growth concluded in Jakarta, bringing together government officials and technical experts to refine the framework that will guide regional cooperation on critical minerals.

The initiative forms part of Priority Economic Deliverable No. 6 under the Philippines' 2026 ASEAN Chairship and is intended to support ASEAN's efforts to build integrated and sustainable mineral value chains across the region.

The workshop was co-organized by the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA), the ASEAN Secretariat, the Intergovernmental Forum for Mining, Minerals, Metals and Sustainable Development (IGF), and the Asian Development Bank.

Participants included mineral sector focal points and representatives from trade, investment and finance ministries from ASEAN member states, reflecting a whole-of-government approach to critical minerals policy development.

The Philippines was represented by Dr. Karlo L. Queaño, assistant director, along with members of the Priority Economic Deliverable No. 6 Technical Working Group, including Anne Karla M. Navarro of the Mineral Economics, Information and Publication Division, Engr. Cesar Anthony A. Aben of the Marine Geological Survey Division, and Harley A. Lacbawan of the Lands Geological Survey Division.

Building on discussions from the first regional workshop held in March, delegates focused on validating key elements of the emerging strategy.

Among the major components discussed was the proposed ASEAN Critical Minerals Taxonomy, which seeks to establish common regional criteria for determining which minerals qualify as critical across ASEAN's diverse economies.

Participants also reviewed a proposed regional definition of critical minerals, assessing its clarity, consistency and applicability across member states and examining how it could be applied to areas such as trade, investment, industrial policy and fiscal frameworks.

The workshop further examined a policy brief identifying opportunities and challenges in regional value-chain integration, investment priorities, financing mechanisms and approaches to mobilizing capital while reducing project risks.

Following the technical discussions, delegates participated in the International Investment Forum on Critical Minerals, which explored investment opportunities across ASEAN mineral value chains and examined issues related to regulatory readiness, international standards and cross-border cooperation.

The forum brought together representatives from ASEAN member states, strategic partners including Australia, Japan and the United States, as well as multilateral development banks, international organizations, academic institutions and private-sector stakeholders.

Organizers said the draft strategy refined during the Jakarta workshop will undergo further stakeholder consultations before being finalized.

The completed ASEAN Critical Minerals Strategy is expected to be presented for ministerial consideration and adoption later this year, providing a regional framework to support sustainable mineral development and strengthen ASEAN's role as a trusted supplier in global critical minerals supply chains.

Teachers and community representatives from two schools in Zamboanga del Sur recently visited TVI Resource Development (Phils.), Inc.'s Balabag Gold-Silver Project, gaining firsthand exposure to mining operations, workplace safety standards and environmental management practices.

Teachers from Dimalinao Elementary School, accompanied by Parent-Teacher Association members and representatives from the Barangay Council, toured the TVIRD-Balabag Gold-Silver Project to learn about the company's operational processes, safety protocols and sustainability programs.

The visit provided participants with practical insights into how the mining company manages its operations while implementing environmental and workplace safety measures.

The group expressed appreciation for the opportunity to observe the project firsthand and learn about responsible mining practices. Participants said they were particularly impressed by the company's emphasis on sustainability, operational efficiency and occupational safety.

In a separate visit, teachers from Depore Elementary School also toured the Balabag operation, where they observed mining activities and learned about the company's environmental and safety initiatives.

The educators said the experience offered valuable lessons that could be shared with students and applied in educational activities.

According to TVIRD, the visits form part of ongoing efforts to engage with local communities and provide stakeholders with a better understanding of the company's operations and responsible mining practices.

Participants from both schools said the experience provided new perspectives on how environmental stewardship, workplace safety and efficient resource management are implemented in an operational setting.

The visitors noted that lessons from the tour could help strengthen community initiatives and educational programs, while highlighting the importance of collaboration among schools, families, local government units and industry in promoting sustainable development and safe practices.

Located in Zamboanga del Sur in Mindanao, the Balabag Gold-Silver Project has been in commercial operation since 2021. TVIRD owns and operates the mine, which produces gold and silver dore using a hybrid Merrill-Crowe and Carbon-in-Leach processing system with an average mill throughput of about 2,500 tons per day. The project currently mines an epithermal vein deposit through open-pit operations, with potential for future underground development.

TVIRD began exploring the Balabag area in 2005 following reports from former workers and the presence of small-scale mining activities. The company completed its first drill hole in November 2005 and subsequently expanded exploration efforts after receiving encouraging results.

The project's first Mineral Resource Estimate was released in 2007 under National Instrument 43-101 reporting standards. In 2014, TVIRD issued an updated Mineral Resource Estimate certified under the Philippine Mineral Reporting Code, reporting a measured and indicated mineral resource of 2.4 million tons grading 1.8 grams of gold per ton and 47.8 grams of silver per ton.

Part of the resource was converted into an initial open-pit reserve of 1.34 million tons under the approved Declaration of Mining Project Feasibility. The company continued exploration drilling to expand reserves, optimize mill capacity and extend the mine's operating life.

The Balabag Project has also received national recognition for its safety and environmental performance. During the 2022 Philippine Mine Safety and Environmental Conference, the operation received the Presidential Mineral Industry Environmental Award for surface mining operations, the Safest Surface Mining Operation Award, and was named second runner-up in the Best Mining Forest Contest for metallic mines.

The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) and representatives from several Philippine government agencies have returned from a mining study tour in Western Australia, bringing home lessons and reform commitments aimed at strengthening the country's minerals sector and advancing responsible mining practices.

The Philippine delegation participated in the Southeast Asia and Australia Government Partnerships (SEAG2G) Mining Sector Study Tour from May 10 to 15, 2026, where officials examined mining operations, mineral processing facilities, research institutions, regulatory agencies and sustainable development initiatives in one of the world's leading mining jurisdictions.

The delegation was led by Department of Environment and Natural Resources Assistant Secretary for Mining Concerns Michael Cabalda.

During the six-day program, participants visited Murdoch University, the Intertek Minerals Laboratory, Alcoa's Huntly Mine and Pinjarra Alumina Refinery, the Tianqi Lithium Refinery, the Minerals Research Institute of Western Australia, and several government agencies involved in mining regulation and environmental management.

According to MGB, the study tour provided delegates with firsthand exposure to responsible mining practices, mine rehabilitation programs, environmental stewardship initiatives, critical minerals development, downstream mineral processing, laboratory management systems, social licensing frameworks, Indigenous engagement strategies and approaches to supporting the long-term economic transition of mining communities.

The bureau said the program generated practical insights that could be adapted to Philippine conditions and incorporated into future policies, technical programs and regulatory initiatives.

The engagements also established connections with internationally recognized universities, laboratories, mining companies, research organizations and government agencies, creating opportunities for future technical cooperation, research partnerships, knowledge exchanges and capacity-building programs.

Among the key lessons identified by the delegation were the importance of strong institutional governance, sustained investment in research and development, modernization of laboratory facilities, promotion of value-added mineral processing and the integration of sustainability principles throughout the mining value chain.

MGB said the value of the study tour extends beyond knowledge-sharing, with participants expected to translate lessons learned into concrete actions within their respective areas of responsibility.

Each participant has identified specific commitments, initiatives or proposed outputs that will be pursued upon returning to the Philippines, with the aim of strengthening the bureau's technical services, regulatory functions, research capabilities and institutional effectiveness.

The commitments have been compiled and included as an annex to the delegation's official travel report for management review and consideration.

The delegation expressed confidence that the initiatives, once implemented, would contribute to the modernization of the bureau, enhancement of technical capabilities, expansion of downstream mineral processing opportunities and strengthening of sustainable mining governance in the Philippines.

As the country seeks to increase participation in global mineral value chains while advancing responsible mineral development, MGB said the knowledge, partnerships and commitments generated through the study tour are expected to support innovation, institutional improvement and long-term growth across the mining sector.

The delegation reaffirmed its commitment to converting lessons learned in Australia into programs, projects and policy initiatives that support the bureau's mandate and contribute to the sustainable development of the Philippine minerals industry.

Australian-listed Celsius Resources Ltd. has appointed new leadership for its Philippine subsidiary, Tambuli Mining Company Inc., as the company moves forward with plans to develop the Sagay Copper Project in Negros Occidental.

In a disclosure dated June 9, Celsius said Tambuli had appointed Dr. Attilenore "Nene" Manero as interim chair and president and intends to appoint mining executive Peter Hume as technical adviser once regulatory and administrative requirements are completed.

The appointments follow the recent termination of Manero as chief sustainability director of MMCI and Hume as technical director of MMCI by Julito "Sarge" Sarmiento in his capacity as president director of MMCI, the company said.

Celsius said the appointments would allow it to retain critical in-country expertise and experience while supporting the long-term development of the Sagay Copper Project, located in the northeastern part of Negros Island in Negros Occidental. The company noted that its primary focus remains the development of its MCB Copper-Gold Project.

According to Celsius, the Sagay project covers approximately 1,780 hectares and hosts a large-scale copper-gold porphyry deposit as well as a shallow supergene copper deposit that is expected to be the first target for development. Exploration at the project began in 2008, with 47 drill holes totaling 28,252 meters completed between 2012 and 2023.

The company's latest mineral resource estimate reported a combined measured, indicated and inferred resource of 312 million metric tons grading 0.39 percent copper and 0.11 grams of gold per ton, containing an estimated 1.225 million tons of copper and 1.075 million ounces of gold.

Celsius said its proposed development strategy involves a two-phase approach. The first phase would focus on the shallow supergene copper deposit through a medium-scale surface mining operation covering about 20 hectares. Ore would be processed using gravity separation, avoiding chemical reagents and flotation agents, while tailings would be dry-stacked instead of stored in a tailings dam.

The second phase would assess the long-term potential development of the deeper copper-gold porphyry deposit through an underground block-cave mining operation and conventional milling and flotation processing, subject to further technical studies and community support.

The company said substantial progress had been made on permitting. A Declaration of Mining Project Feasibility application, including a mining feasibility study, environmental impact statement and related plans, was submitted to the Mines and Geosciences Bureau in December 2023 and remains under review. An updated environmental impact assessment was submitted in September 2025.

Celsius said an Environmental Compliance Certificate is expected following approval of the mining project feasibility declaration and environmental assessment. The company would then pursue either a Mineral Production Sharing Agreement or a Financial or Technical Assistance Agreement.

Manero, a former non-executive director of Celsius, has experience in government and regulatory affairs, permitting, compliance and environmental and social programs. Her appointment as interim chair, president and director of Tambuli runs until Dec. 31, 2026, subject to renewal by mutual agreement.

Hume, who currently serves as interim chair of Celsius, has more than 45 years of international mining experience and will continue serving on the Celsius board while supporting the technical advancement of the Sagay project and the company's other Philippine mining interests.

Australia-listed Celsius Resources Ltd. said it is seeking emergency arbitration to prevent any offtake agreement between India's Kiri Industries Ltd. and Makilala Mining Co. Inc. without its approval, following the transfer of Maharlika Investment Corp.'s loan rights in the Makilala copper-gold project.

In a statement on June 9, Celsius said Maharlika Investment Corp. had completed the assignment of its rights, title and interests under the Omnibus Loan and Security Agreement with Makilala Mining Co. Inc. to Equinaire Holdings Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Kiri Industries. The transaction effectively transfers MIC's position as lender under the agreement to Equinaire.

The development follows recent comments by Kiri Chairman and Managing Director Manish Kiri, who said the Indian company had already entered the Philippine project through financing arrangements and was negotiating an offtake agreement. According to a transcript of Kiri's June 1 earnings call cited by Celsius, the company said its objective was to conclude the offtake agreement as soon as possible.

Celsius, however, said it had not been involved in any direct discussions with Kiri regarding a potential offtake arrangement and argued that any such agreement would require its approval as part of a broader financing solution for the MCB Project.

The company said it is initiating an emergency arbitration process seeking an injunction against any offtake agreement executed between Kiri and Makilala Mining pending the outcome of a wider arbitration proceeding involving Sodor, PMR and Celsius. It added that it had provided written notice to Kiri stating its intention to rescind any transactions or arrangements with Makilala Mining that were not approved by Celsius.

Celsius also maintained that previous binding agreements among Celsius, Sodor and PMR, which expired in February this year, were structured around PDEP Inc. — a wholly owned Celsius subsidiary — operating the MCB Project's processing plant and producing and marketing copper-gold concentrate. As a result, the company argued that PDEP, rather than Makilala Mining, would be the appropriate entity for any future offtake agreement.

Meanwhile, Maharlika Investment Corp. said the assignment marked the successful exit of its bridge loan investment in Makilala Mining and generated a 12.5-percent net annualized return in U.S. dollar terms. In Philippine peso terms, the state-owned investment fund estimated the transaction delivered a net annualized return of about 25 percent.

MIC said the divestment frees up capital for future investments while bringing a new international investor into the project's financing structure. The sovereign wealth fund described Kiri as an established industrial group with a growing interest in strategic and critical minerals investments.

MIC President and Chief Executive Officer Rafael Consing Jr. said the transaction demonstrated the fund's ability to generate returns while attracting strategic global capital into the Philippines.

"The outcome reflects the disciplined investment approach that MIC seeks to bring to its portfolio in furtherance of its mandate of generating sustainable returns while supporting national economic development," Consing said.

The dispute adds another layer of uncertainty to the development of the Maalinao-Caigutan-Biyog copper-gold project in Kalinga, one of the country's most advanced undeveloped mineral projects, as competing parties continue to pursue legal and commercial claims over project financing and future marketing arrangements.

More than 700 stakeholders from the mining sector, local government units, and partner institutions gathered in Camarines Norte for the third Mobile One-Stop Shop (MOSS) for the Small-Scale Mining Sector, an initiative aimed at improving access to government services and promoting responsible mining practices.

Held on May 20 at Camarines Norte State College, the program was led by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) in partnership with various government agencies to help small-scale miners comply with regulatory requirements, strengthen environmental and safety standards, and encourage legal mineral trading.

The event was formally opened by MGB Regional Office 5 Regional Director Guillermo A. Mollina Jr. IV, while messages of support were delivered by Labo Mayor Severino T. Francisco Jr., MGB Director Larry M. Heradez, Camarines Norte Gov. Ricarte “Dong” Padilla, and Gov. Ricardo T. Kho, among other local officials.

Delivering the keynote address, DENR Assistant Secretary for Mining Concerns Michael V. Cabalda underscored the importance of formalizing small-scale mining operations and advancing environmentally responsible mining practices.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony officially launched the event, followed by visits to service booths where participating agencies provided information and assistance on mining regulations, environmental compliance, occupational safety, and legal mineral trading.

One of the highlights of the program was a ceremonial gold-buying activity, during which 14.71 grams of gold with an estimated purity of 87.5 percent were traded through legal channels. The event also saw the awarding of seven Interim Small-Scale Mining Contracts (ISSMCs) to various Minahang Bayan areas.

According to the MGB, the MOSS program seeks to simplify the processing of permits and other regulatory requirements for small-scale miners while providing technical assistance on environmental protection, occupational health and safety, and responsible mining practices. The initiative also promotes the sale of gold through Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas-accredited channels.

As part of the activities, officials from the MGB and partner agencies visited the Minahang Bayan site operated by the Magkamatao Small-Scale Miners Association (MSSMA) to assess mining conditions and the welfare of miners in the area.

During the visit, government officials recognized the association’s compliance with environmental and safety standards and cited the progress of small-scale mining in the province through the combined efforts of local government units, the MGB, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and other partner agencies.

Heradez noted that while the Caraga Region is widely regarded as the country's large-scale mining capital, Camarines Norte could be considered the Philippines’ “small-scale mining capital” because of the sector’s significant presence and contribution in the province.

The program concluded with remarks from MSSMA adviser Rodrigo A. Belleza, who thanked government agencies for their continued support of small-scale miners and initiatives promoting responsible and sustainable mining development.

Dinapigue Mining Corp. (DMC) has been recommended for continued certification under three internationally recognized management system standards following a successful surveillance audit conducted in May.

The audit, carried out by National Quality Assurance on May 26 and 27 at the company's conference room in Dinapigue, Isabela, affirmed DMC's compliance with quality, environmental, and occupational health and safety management requirements.

The recommendation came after the company completed a series of rigorous internal audit activities in 2025 and 2026 under the leadership of Engr. Edwin R. Casiano, assistant vice president for Risk Management and Management Systems.

DMC maintains certification under ISO 9001:2015 for Quality Management Systems, ISO 14001:2015 for Environmental Management Systems, and ISO 45001:2018 for Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems.

Company officials said the audit results reflect DMC's continued commitment to regulatory compliance, workplace safety, environmental stewardship, and operational excellence.

The company noted that adherence to internationally recognized standards supports its efforts to improve operational efficiency, strengthen sustainability practices, and meet evolving environmental, social and governance (ESG) expectations.

DMC said the recommendation for continued certification also reinforces confidence among investors, regulators, host communities, and other stakeholders by demonstrating its commitment to responsible mining operations.

The company added that maintaining its ISO certifications supports ongoing initiatives aimed at creating livelihood opportunities, promoting sustainable development, and contributing to economic growth in its host communities.

DMC is engaged in nickel mining operations in Dinapigue, Isabela, and continues to implement management systems designed to ensure responsible resource development while minimizing environmental impacts and safeguarding the health and safety of its workforce.

ISO surveillance audit finds no gaps or corrective actions needed for TVIRD projects

In a process designed to surface flaws, what stood out most was the absence of them.

In this year’s external ISO surveillance audits, the group of mining companies under TVI Resource Development Philippines Inc. (TVIRD) recorded an outcome that runs against the usual expectations of a standard assessment. Across all its project sites, auditors did not identify nonconformities, procedural gaps or corrective actions required at the end of the inspection. An exercise meant to test whether systems hold under scrutiny instead recorded no findings that warranted correction.

External ISO surveillance audits are structured to probe operational systems against international standards, assessing whether documented procedures are reflected in actual practice and whether controls remain effective under sustained review. In most settings, these audits surface at least minor deviations requiring attention. In this case, none were reported.

Retained certifications

Across its operations, TVIRD’s Greenstone Resources Corporation in Surigao del Norte maintained its Integrated Management System (IMS) certifications under ISO 9001:2015 for Quality Management, ISO 14001:2015 for Environmental Management, and ISO 45001:2018 for Occupational Health and Safety for its operations at the Siana Gold Project.

The company’s Agata Nickel Laterite Project in Agusan del Norte — now in its final rehabilitation stage — and the Balabag Gold Project in Zamboanga del Sur likewise sustained their respective compliance certificates under ISO 14001:2015 for Environmental Management.

The results effectively reflect the full retention of certifications across multiple management systems during external surveillance audits, alongside a clean evaluation record for the period under review.

Strength and discipline

ISO Officer Arbette Dayandayan described the outcome as a reflection of system strength and consistency in execution.

“Achieving zero non-conformities in this year’s external audit is a clear validation of Greenstone’s IMS and operational discipline. It signifies that all processes are fully aligned with ISO requirements, implementation is effective, and systems are mature, proactive and continuously improved,” she said.

She added that the company regards compliance as a condition embedded in its daily operations rather than a periodic requirement.

Corporate dress rehearsals

Ahead of the audit, Greenstone implemented a risk-based preparation framework covering leadership engagement, hazard identification, legal compliance tracking, operational controls, workforce competence and emergency preparedness. Internal audits and gap assessments were conducted across all operational units, while mock audits were carried out to simulate external review conditions.

Workforce preparation included awareness sessions, drills and ISO briefings. Meanwhile, management reviews and corrective action tracking addressed identified risks prior to external evaluation.

Unified systems

Within the IMS, compliance is maintained through standardized operating procedures, structured risk assessments, document control mechanisms, inspections and performance monitoring tools. These are reinforced by leadership oversight and coordination across departments.

Document Controller Alexa Mae Tiape emphasized that proper documentation is the central pillar of system integrity.

“Documentation is the bedrock of any successful management system, and we act as custodians of compliance. We safeguard operational integrity,” Tiape said.

She likewise explained that documented information is managed through a controlled lifecycle — from creation, review and approval to storage and disposition — while ensuring traceability and alignment with ISO requirements.

A clean audit outcome

The recent audit result establishes important context for evaluating both quality and compliance frameworks. When structured evaluations consistently return no findings, it reflects stability in execution. Moreover, it underscores how closely systems operate within defined parameters.

For the TVIRD Mining Group, the result points to a system that operates within established parameters. It likewise reflects consistency in implementation across operational levels.

In an evaluation designed to surface gaps, the most defining result for the organization was not the need for correction, but rather that none was necessary at this time.

Atty. Job Adrian M. Ambrosio was the Keynote Speaker during the May 2026 Philippine Mining & Exploration Association Monthly Membership Meeting. He is the President and CEO of Philippine Mining Development Corporation (PMDC).

PMDC is a government-owned and controlled corporation (GOCC), under the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), acting as the mining arm of the Philippine state. It focuses on exploring, developing, and managing mining projects, particularly within designated mineral reservations to ensure responsible mining, environmental protection, revenue generation, and community development.

The Philippine Nickel Industry Association (PNIA) and its member companies in Palawan reaffirm their commitment to environmental protection, responsible operations, and the long- term care of the areas entrusted to them.

The Chamber of Mines of the Philippines (COMP) maintains that tree cutting in legitimate mining operations is permitted only when fully compliant with Philippine laws and regulations and supported by all required government permits and approvals. Mining companies are subject to strict environmental oversight and must meet comprehensive regulatory requirements designed to protect and restore forest ecosystems throughout the life of a mining project.

The estimated value of Philippine metallic mineral production rose by 28.6 percent in the first quarter of 2026, as higher metal prices and increased nickel ore shipments offset lower output from several major commodities, according to data from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau.

Total metallic mineral production was valued at PHP82.78 billion during the January-to-March period, up from PHP64.35 billion in the same period last year.

Gold remained the country's top metallic mineral commodity by value, generating PHP53.78 billion despite production declining by 24.7 percent to 5,850 kilograms from 7,769 kilograms a year earlier. The value of gold output increased by 31.2 percent from PHP41 billion, reflecting stronger market prices.

The Masbate Gold Project operated by Filminera Mining Corp. and Philippine Gold Processing & Refining Corp. remained the largest gold producer during the quarter, producing 1,646 kilograms valued at PHP14.75 billion.

Silver production also declined, falling 20.9 percent to 9,896 kilograms from 12,513 kilograms in the same period last year. However, the value of silver production surged by 82.7 percent to PHP1.35 billion from PHP738.9 million.

Copper output weakened during the quarter, with copper concentrate production dropping 19.4 percent to 47,920 dry metric tons from 59,423 dry metric tons. The estimated value of copper concentrate production declined 7.4 percent to PHP6.36 billion.

Copper metal equivalent production likewise fell 22.3 percent to 9,201 metric tons from 11,839 metric tons.

The Didipio Copper-Gold Project in Nueva Vizcaya, operated by OceanaGold Philippines Inc., remained the country's largest producer of copper concentrate, accounting for 15,844 dry metric tons valued at PHP2.44 billion.

Nickel continued to contribute significantly to the sector's overall value.

Production of mixed nickel-cobalt sulfide declined 8.3 percent to 16,711 dry metric tons from 18,233 dry metric tons. Despite the lower output, the value of production increased 22.1 percent to PHP10.13 billion from PHP8.30 billion.

Direct shipping nickel ore posted the strongest gains among the major mineral commodities. Output increased 59.7 percent to 4.58 million dry metric tons from 2.87 million dry metric tons, while production value rose 52.4 percent to PHP10.69 billion from PHP7.01 billion.

Among the major contributors were Rio Tuba Nickel Mining Corp. in Palawan, which increased production to 1.18 million dry metric tons from 666,032 dry metric tons a year earlier, and several nickel operations in Zambales and Eastern Samar that also recorded substantial increases.

Chromite production rose 25.5 percent to 26,375 dry metric tons from 21,022 dry metric tons, while its estimated value increased 22.7 percent to PHP344.09 million.

The industry also recorded strong growth in scandium oxalate production. Output from the Taganito HPAL Project in Surigao del Norte increased 257.5 percent to 4,159 dry kilograms from 1,163 dry kilograms, while production value climbed 261.6 percent to PHP71.03 million.

Iron ore was the weakest-performing metallic mineral during the quarter. Production from the Camachin Iron Ore Project in Bulacan declined 53.1 percent to 18,791 dry metric tons from 40,072 dry metric tons, while production value fell by the same rate to PHP62.01 million.

The first-quarter results showed that stronger commodity prices and higher nickel ore shipments helped lift the overall value of the country's metallic mineral production despite lower output from gold, silver and copper operations.

The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), in partnership with several government agencies, conducted the second Mobile One-Stop Shop (MOSS) for small-scale miners on May 13 and 14 in San Francisco, Agusan del Sur.

A total of 336 small-scale miners and stakeholders participated in the two-day event, which provided on-site assistance from agencies including the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, Department of Trade and Industry, Cooperative Development Authority, Bureau of Internal Revenue, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Land Bank of the Philippines, Department of Labor and Employment, and the Environmental Management Bureau.

The MGB’s Mining Technology Division and Mine Safety, Environment, and Social Development Division conducted technical briefings, health and safety training, and guidance on documentation requirements for permits and contracts.

Meanwhile, the Metallurgical Technology Division showcased responsible and environment-friendly mining practices, highlighting safer and more sustainable methods of gold extraction.

A major highlight of the program was the awarding of 30 Interim Small-Scale Mining Contracts and three Small-Scale Mining Contracts.

The ceremonial awarding was led by Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna together with Undersecretary Joselin Marcus Fragada, MGB Director Larry Heradez, Assistant Director Karlo Queaño, and MGB Region XIII Officer-in-Charge Director Francis Glenn Suante.

The contracts cover areas in Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur and Dinagat Islands, supporting government efforts to formalize small-scale mining operations across the Caraga Region.

The MOSS also facilitated direct access to formal gold markets. During the event, gold produced by one participating small-scale mining group was sold to a Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas-accredited buyer, demonstrating a transparent and secure marketing pathway for miners.

“We must bring down the services not only of the DENR, but also of other government agencies needed in small-scale mining,” Cuna said.

“We have to speed up the processes, bring our services to the people, and help the economy,” he added.

Following the first MOSS held in South Cotabato in March, the MGB said it plans to continue pilot implementations in Bicol Region, Davao Region and the Cordillera Administrative Region.

The initiative forms part of the implementation of Department Administrative Order No. 2026-08, which aims to streamline the issuance of Interim Small-Scale Mining Contracts and Small-Scale Mining Contracts by bringing government services directly to mining communities and accelerating the formalization of the small-scale mining sector.

Powering tomorrow, aligning operations with clean energy solutions for enhanced sustainability

Solar energy has steadily evolved from a niche, experimental technology into a practical component of modern operations. Once regarded as an expensive and idealistic “green” alternative, it is now a reliable energy solution adopted by households and industries alike. What was once considered the future of energy has become a present-day necessity, shaping how we power modern life.

This transition is especially critical in areas where the electricity supply remains unstable or costly. For industries, such uncertainty is more than an inconvenience, often translating into operational delays, downtime, and increased production pressure. In this context, the TVI Resource Development Philippines Inc. (TVIRD) Group is advancing its energy resilience strategy through the installation of a 5.3-megawatt-peak (MWp) solar power facility at its Siana Gold Project, which it manages under Greenstone Resource Corporation.

Power on

“This Solar Farm Project is the first of its kind here in the Caraga Region where a mining company really put up a large-scale solar farm to help offset its energy requirements and strengthen its power supply,” enthusiastically said Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Region XIII Director Engr. Francis Glenn Suante during the energization of Phase 1 of the solar plant.

He likewise noted that the project reflects Greenstone’s forward-looking approach to securing reliable power and sustaining renewable energy initiatives. It likewise supports the Philippines’ push for more renewables under the Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Program and helps move the country towards the goal of raising renewables to 35 percent by 2030, and 50 percent by 2040.

A new era of renewable integration

Engr. Rico Hernandez, Greenstone Solar Farm Project Head, described the project as a turning point in how renewable energy is being adopted in large-scale industries. He said it reflects growing efforts within the mining sector to work alongside cleaner energy systems in a more practical and sustained way.

“I see this as a major milestone for the mining industry, showing that large-scale operations can effectively tie up with the renewable energy sector,” he said.

He added that the project also demonstrates that the shift towards cleaner energy is no longer purely aspirational. Instead, it is becoming a practical operational strategy that can be implemented without compromising efficiency or reliability.

Improving operational efficiency and energy independence

Rather than relying solely on external grid power, which can be inconsistent at times, the solar facility is designed to offset a portion of the Siana Gold Project’s energy requirements. This reduces dependence on conventional electricity sources and contributes to lowering carbon emissions associated with operations. For a mining site where continuous and stable energy is essential, this shift supports both operational efficiency and a reduced environmental footprint.

Hernandez noted that solar energy has moved beyond its earlier role as a supplementary source. He explained that improvements in system design and integration now allow solar to contribute significantly to daytime energy demand, particularly in industrial settings with predictable load profiles.

He further explained that this evolution has changed how energy is approached in mining operations, with solar power increasingly incorporated into long-term energy planning rather than treated as an auxiliary option.

Project scope and expected impact

The project is currently under construction and is expected to be completed by May 31. It is projected to generate around 7,943,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity annually, covering approximately 16 percent of the Siana Gold Project Process Plant’s total energy needs.

Beyond its operational benefits, this integration of solar energy reflects a broader move towards cleaner industrial practices and more responsible energy consumption. Once completed, the solar farm will span 15.65 hectares and is expected to reduce the Siana Project’s carbon footprint by over 4,100 tons of CO2 emissions, equivalent to more than 190,000 trees — thus achieving a greener and more sustainable energy profile.

Hernandez said the timing of the project was a key factor in its implementation. He explained that several enabling conditions were already in place, including available land, a defined energy load, and an established grid connection, which allowed the development to proceed efficiently and without disrupting ongoing operations.

External pressures also supported the decision, particularly rising fuel costs and expectations of higher electricity tariffs, which made renewable integration a more viable and strategic option for the company at this stage.

TVIRD is implementing the project in partnership with PAVI Green Renewable Energy, Inc., reflecting a growing collaboration between industrial operators and renewable energy specialists. This approach helps turn sustainability from a long-term goal into a practical, operational reality embedded directly into day-to-day industrial processes.

Shifting mindsets in energy use

Beyond technical outcomes, Hernandez highlighted a broader shift in organizational mindset. He said the company is beginning to move away from simply consuming energy towards a more intentional approach focused on optimization and management of energy sources.

“We’re moving from just consuming energy to actually managing and optimizing where our energy comes from,” he said.

What makes this development more relatable is how it mirrors changes already visible in everyday energy choices. Solar energy is no longer limited to large-scale projects or symbolic sustainability efforts. It is being adopted as a practical response to rising electricity costs and the need for greater energy control in everyday settings. At the industrial level, those same pressures take on a larger scale, where reliability and efficiency become operational priorities rather than just cost concerns.

At its core, this solar initiative reflects a broader shift in how energy is being approached today. It is no longer viewed simply as a resource delivered from external sources and consumed as-is. Instead, it is increasingly something that can be generated on-site, managed more efficiently, and integrated into operations — even in industries long dependent on large-scale power infrastructure.

As solar energy grows from rooftop systems to large industrial sites, it is changing the way people think about power — both in everyday life and in business. Whether it’s families trying to manage rising electricity bills or companies working to avoid disruptions, the message is the same: energy isn’t just something you use. It’s something you can plan for, produce on-site, and manage in a smarter, more practical way.