PH is in ‘prime position’ to supply in-demand critical minerals – Marcos

Quarry site of Narra Nickel Mining and Development Corporation in Palawan (INQUIRER file photo)

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Wednesday said the government needs to invest in resources that can boost mineral processing in the country.

During his speech at the 2023 Philippine Mineral Industry Environmental Award (PMIEA) in Malacañang, he emphasized the Philippines’ potential as one of the world’s mineral-rich countries.

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“As the world transitions to clean energy, the demand for critical minerals is surging. And in the emerging landscape, our country’s abundant resources place us in a prime position to lead the way,” Marcos said.

“But to truly harness this potential, we must invest in the infrastructure and the technology required to process these minerals domestically,” he pointed out.

He also reiterated the need to adapt mining processes that prioritize the environment to ensure that they are “clean, efficient and restore the land that has been mined.”

“As we look ahead, I urge all our dedicated agencies and esteemed members of Congress to support the Rationalization of the Mining Fiscal Regime,” he said.

“This crucial bill, which I highlighted in my 2023 Sona [state of the nation address], is fundamental to creating a fair and equitable mining environment for everyone involved,” the president noted.

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In the ceremony, Marcos led the awarding of the PMIEA to 13 outstanding mining companies in the country.

Thirty-five nominees underwent assessment and screening based on their performance from July 2022 to June 2023.

Below is the list of the awardees:

Surface mining category

Cagdianao Mining Corporation
CTP Construction and Mining Corporation
Eramen Minerals, Inc.
Hinatuan Mining Corporation – Tagana-an
FCF Minerals Corporation
Zambales Diversified Metals Corporation
Taganito Mining Corporation
Republic Cement & Building Materials, Inc. – Batangas

Quarry mining category

Eagle Cement Corporation
Helix Resources and Development Corporation
Republic Cement & Building Materials, Inc. – Teresa

Mineral processing category

Coral Bay Nickel Corporation
Philippine Mining Service Corporation – Alcoy Plant

As mandated by Executive Order No. 399, series of 1997, the PMIEA is awarded annually to mining companies that demonstrate outstanding performance in safety and health management, environmental protection and community development.

The PMIEA Selection Committee includes the secretaries of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Interior and Local Government, Department of Health, and Department of Science and Technology.

Also included in the committee are the presidents of the Chamber of Mines of the Philippines, Philippine Mine Safety and Environment Association, and Philippine Mining and Exploration Association.