Aquino: Gov’t to continue working with mining companies

President Benigno Aquino III. FILE PHOTO FROM PHILIPPINE GAZETTE

President Benigno Aquino III on Wednesday asked mining companies to continue working with the government in order to achieve a mining industry which is “sustainable, inclusive, and profitable.”

In his speech during the Presidential Mineral Industry Environmental (PMIE) Awards ceremony in Malacanang, Aquino emphasized the need for a stronger partnership between the private and public sectors to achieve the full potential of the country’s mining industry.

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“Moving forward, our government will continue working with you, in the belief that it is through constant communication and cooperation that we will give rise to industries that are truly sustainable, inclusive, and profitable,” Aquino said.

“If we can continue our shared efforts to ensure the sustainability of mining, then I believe we will certainly reach its full potential in the Philippines sooner rather than later,” he added.

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During Monday’s awards ceremony, five mining companies were recognized for sustainable and environment-friendly practices.

The five companies were: Siilangan Mindanao Mining Co., Inc. for exploration; Coral Bay Nickel Corporation for mineral processing; and Rio Tuba Nickel Corporation, SR Metals Inc. and Oceana Gold Philippines for surface mining operation.

The companies were presented with the PMIE Award during the Annual National Mine Safety and Environment Conference (ANMSEC) last November. IDL