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The Mines and Geosciences Bureau participated in the Workshop on Advancing Sustainable Resource Management: Enhancing Underground Mining and Mine Reclamation Expertise Across ASEAN in Bandung, Indonesia from June 23 to 26, 2025.
The said activity was hosted by the Human Resource Development Center for Geology, Mineral, and Coal on behalf of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources of the Republic of Indonesia and was supported by the ASEAN-Korea Economic Cooperation Fund. It aims to enhance the expertise of ASEAN countries on underground mining techniques and mine rehabilitation practices that focus on sustainable resource management.
During the four (4)-day workshop, lectures and group discussions were conducted on the following topics:
Preparing Human Capital Towards Indonesian Mineral Downstream to Support Sustainable Development;
Overview of Underground Mining in Indonesia;
Techniques, Safety Practices, and Environmental Considerations on Underground Mine;
Post Mining Activities/Reclamation in Indonesia;
Overview of Mine Reclamation and Cooperation Projects of Korea Mine Rehabilitation and Mineral Resources Corporation (KOMIR) in Indonesia; and
Strategies, Ecological Restoration, and Community Engagement of Mine Reclamation.
In addition, each ASEAN member country delivered a presentation on their respective mineral resources and reserves, policy on underground mining and mine reclamation, and existing and future needs for human resources development in the mining sector.
Site visits to the Mercury Treatment Pilot Plant, Laboratory of Environmental Mine Hazard Assessment, and Laboratory of Mercury Analysis of tekMIRA – Indonesia’s Testing Center for Mineral and Coal; and underground gold mine of PT ANTAM UBPE in Pongkor, West Java were also part of the workshop. Finally, a discussion with KOMIR was facilitated for possible collaborations with the ASEAN Minerals Sector.
The workshop was attended by Engr. Vernier L. Serrano, Chief, Mineral Reserves Inventory Section of the Mining Technology Division and Engr. Celeste S. Aquino, Senior Science Research Specialist, Mine Environmental Management Section of the Mine Safety, Environment and Social Development Division.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is fast-tracking the construction of the Guicam Bridge Project, a major inter-island connectivity initiative in Zamboanga Sibugay Province. The bridge forms part of the Build Better More infrastructure program and aligns with the Bagong Pilipinas vision of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for inclusive and sustainable national development.
A key component of the Improving Growth Corridors in Mindanao Road Sector Project (IGCMRSP), the ₱1.155 billion bridge is financed by the Asian Development Bank. Once completed, it will connect Olutanga Island to the mainland through the municipality of Alicia, boosting mobility, trade, and economic integration across the Zamboanga Peninsula.
In a project update to DPWH Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan, Senior Undersecretary Emil K. Sadain reported that the Guicam Bridge has reached 87.90% completion. Major foundation work is finished, including the installation of 115 bored piles—99 offshore piles measuring 2.2 meters in diameter and 16 land-based piles at 1.2 meters in diameter.
During a site inspection on July 4, Sadain, who oversees flagship infrastructure projects for the agency, directed contractor Grace Construction Corp., in joint venture with Tianyuan Construction Group Corp., and project supervision consultant Renardet S.A. Consulting Engineers, to intensify girder installation and concrete works. He was joined by DPWH UPMO-Roads Management Cluster II Project Director Teresita V. Bauzon, Stakeholders Relations Service Director Randy R. Del Rosario, UPMO project managers Evangeline L. Carabal and Emmanuel M. Supe, and Project Engineer Barley H. Sali. Former project director Sharif Madsmo H. Hasim also attended and shared his technical insights.
Work is now focused on superstructure development, particularly girder launching and deck slab concreting. According to DPWH, four girders have been launched at Span 1 (Abutment A to Pier 1), with the corresponding deck slab already completed. Of 48 girders, 40 have been fabricated, and 36 have undergone stressing and grouting.
Retaining wall and embankment construction is underway on Approach B (Olutanga Island side), while portland cement concrete paving and line canal works are progressing on Approach A (mainland side).
The Guicam Bridge spans 540.80 meters over the Canalizo Strait and consists of 12 spans of Type VI prestressed concrete girders. It includes 389.60 meters of approach roads on the mainland side and 277.62 meters on the island side. To support maritime navigation, the bridge is designed with a clearance of 14.80 meters in height and 24 meters in width.
“Once completed, the bridge is expected to significantly reduce travel time, enhance regional logistics, and strengthen inter-island connectivity and access to essential services across southwestern Mindanao—contributing to an improved quality of life and driving inclusive growth,” Sadain said.
Meralco PowerGen Corporation (MGEN), through its affiliate Terra Solar Philippines Inc. (MTerra Solar), has reached a significant milestone in the construction of the MTerra Solar plant—with 778 megawatts (MW) of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels now installed on-site.
This achievement exceeds the project’s 750 MW target and positions MTerra Solar as the largest solar PV installation in the Philippines to date. Once complete, it is expected to become the world’s largest integrated solar PV and battery energy storage facility.
“MTerra Solar stands as a clear example of how we can shape the country’s energy future through strong partnerships and a shared vision. With 778 MW of solar PV capacity now installed, we are making real progress toward delivering cleaner and more sustainable power for Filipinos,” said Dennis B. Jordan, MTerra Solar and MGEN Renewable Energy president and CEO.
“This milestone reflects the hard work of our teams on the ground, the support of our government partners, and the trust of the communities we serve,” Jordan said.
Since the project’s groundbreaking in November 2024—led by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.—MTerra Solar has reached 54 percent overall completion for Phase 1. The integrated PV and battery energy storage system (BESS), along with a 500‑kilovolt transmission line to the Nagsaag‑San Jose corridor, is supported by a workforce of over 9,500, which has logged more than 7.5 million safe manhours.
The facility is a critical element of the Philippines’ plan to achieve 35 percent renewable energy by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040.
Local officials hailed the project’s community and economic benefits.
“At the heart of our provincial agenda is the vision of sustainable, inclusive and future‑forward development. The provincial government of Nueva Ecija will continue to champion projects like MTerra Solar. It is our duty to pave the way for a future that is not only bright but also clean, green and just,” said Governor Aurelio “Oyie” Umali, represented by Provincial Administrator Atty. Jose Maria San Pedro.
For his part, Gapan City Mayor Emary Joy Pascual added, “Nakakatuwa dahil libo-libong trabaho at negosyo ang naging oportunidad dito sa Lungsod ng Gapan at pakikinabangan ng mga Batang Gapan.”
“[We also express our] deep appreciation that a great number of the workforce is now providing livelihood... The strong partnership that we build today is a commitment to improve lives of our people now and beyond,” said General Tinio Mayor Sherry Bolisay.
Spanning 3,500 hectares—nearly the size of Pasig City—the project stretches across Gapan, Peñaranda, General Tinio, San Leonardo in Nueva Ecija, and San Miguel in Bulacan. Once fully operational, MTerra Solar will deliver 3,500 MWp of solar capacity and 4,500 MWh of energy storage, powering some 2.4 million households and avoiding approximately 4.3 million tons of CO₂ emissions yearly—equivalent to taking over 3 million gasoline-powered vehicles off the road.
Constructed with the support of EPC leaders Energy China, POWERCHINA, MIESCOR, and Huawei, as well as grid interconnection specialists Maxipro Development and Fujian Electric, the project is on schedule to complete Phase 1 by early 2026 and Phase 2 in 2027—three years ahead of MGEN’s 2030 renewable capacity goal.
MGEN’s broader portfolio now boasts nearly 5,000 MW of combined capacity across traditional and renewable sources.
The interplay of geopolitics and natural resources has become increasingly pronounced in modern times, with countries vying for access to critical minerals vital for economic and technological development.
Recent events, such as the hostility between Israel and Iran, with the United States striking Iran’s three nuclear sites, have significant ripple effects on resources globally, especially on energy, supply chains and humanitarian aid.
Even without the current tensions in the Middle East, geopolitical interests have been seen as a major driver of activity for mining and metals.
In a 2024 study among developed markets conducted by White & Case, 45% of respondents identified economic and geopolitical interests (geopolitics, critical minerals policies, resource nationalism and reconfiguration of global supply chains) as the top driver, followed by climate change, ESG and decarbonization initiatives (24%); inflationary and metal supply pressures (21%); Chinese economy slowdown (7%); and other factors (2%).
Supply chain disruptions are also seen as the biggest potential impact of geopolitical tensions (58%), followed by slowdown in actual commodity demand and deflationary pressures from slow growth (27%).
While geopolitics may be seen as impacting natural resources, it has long been posited that our requirements for natural resources in fact dictate geopolitical dynamics, which influence nations’ interactions on the global stage.
Some factors which have led to the rise of natural resources in the determination of geopolitics and the growing competition for access and control of resources include “rapid industrialization, rising demand for energy, emergence of new markets and depletion of natural resources at a disconcerting rate.” [“Geopolitics of Natural Resources” (2012) by Nishtha Chugh]
In a paper entitled “Resources: Geopolitics Around IT” [Bhawani Prasad Sharma (2022), four points of significance of natural resources in shaping international relations were identified:
Economic significance: Natural resources, such as oil, minerals, and agricultural products, are essential for economic development. They drive industries, generate revenue through exports, and are critical for maintaining a country's economic stability and growth.
Strategic significance: Control over certain resources can confer strategic advantages. For example, oil-rich countries often wield significant influence in global affairs due to their ability to impact energy markets. Similarly, access to rare minerals essential for high-tech industries can be strategically advantageous.
Political Significance: Natural resources can influence political dynamics within and between countries. Resource abundance can lead to conflicts over control and distribution, while resource scarcity can create vulnerabilities and drive cooperation or competition for access.
Environmental Significance: The exploitation of natural resources can have significant environmental impacts, leading to environmental degradation, pollution, and climate change. These environmental issues can in turn influence international relations, as countries seek to address common challenges through cooperation or face conflicts over environmental resources.
The following types of natural resources were identified in terms of their geopolitical importance in international relations:
Energy Resources
Oil and Gas: Countries rich in these resources hold significant geopolitical influence because of their control over global energy supplies.
Renewable Energy: The rise of renewable energy such as solar and wind energy is introducing a shift in geopolitical dynamics, in that more countries are investing in renewable technologies to lessen dependence on fossil fuels and to enhance energy security.
Minerals and Metals
Rare Earth Elements: These are essential elements for electronics and high-tech industries, and those countries who hold a dominant position in production have more geopolitical influence.
Precious Metals: Metals such as gold, silver, and platinum hold significance because of their value and perceived stability.
Water Resources
Freshwater: Access to this is essential for agriculture, industry and human survival hence, disputes over water resources often lead to tensions and conflicts among nations.
Agricultural Resources
Food Security: Countries with abundant agricultural resources may use this as leverage when it comes to trade and diplomatic negotiations.
Forests and Timber
Biodiversity: This holds ecological value which may economically benefit countries.
Fisheries
Marine Resources: Access to marine resources, such as fish stocks, can be a source of contention between countries, leading to disputes over fishing rights and maritime boundaries.
Locally, the Chamber of Mines of the Philippines has observed that heightened geopolitical risks typically drive up gold prices with investors seeking safe-haven assets. As the Philippines is a major producer of gold, copper and nickel, commodities that are sensitive to both global demands and logistical challenges, the current situation is both an opportunity and a crisis due to the risks brought by global inflation, rising energy costs and potential delays in project execution.
According to the Chamber’s Chairman and President, Michael Toledo, “Despite global uncertainty, we remain cautiously optimistic about the resilience of the Philippine mining industry, particularly in gold, copper, and nickel production.”
He added: “Elevated commodity prices, if sustained, present an opportunity to enhance national economic stability through increased revenues, job creation, and fiscal contributions.”
Geopolitical competition, particularly between China and the United States, has heightened the strategic value of Philippine mining. China has long been a major investor in the country’s mining sector, seeking to secure supplies for its manufacturing-heavy economy.
In contrast, the US and its allies are increasingly pursuing "friendshoring" strategies to reduce reliance on Chinese-controlled supply chains, viewing Philippine minerals as a potential alternative source.
As global powers reposition for access to strategic resources, the Philippines finds itself at the nexus of economic opportunity and geopolitical tension. How it manages its mining sector could significantly influence both regional dynamics and its own path to sustainable development.
In the world of heavy industries, your equipment’s tires are more than just rubber meeting the road. They're critical to performance, safety, and cost-efficiency.
Nowhere is this truer than in construction and mining, where off-the-road (OTR) tires are constantly tested by extreme loads, harsh terrain, and unpredictable conditions.
The difference between uptime and costly downtime often comes down to tire health. Industry specialists from Higantis Corporation, known for their OTR tire expertise and support services across the Philippines, together with Maxam Tire, say that one of the most powerful tools in your tire strategy is consistent inspection, and knowing what to look for.
Why Daily Tire Inspections Matter
OTR tires are high-value assets. A small issue left unchecked can escalate into a failure that takes your whole machine out of commission. A five-minute inspection at the start of a shift could save thousands in lost time and replacement costs.
Daily checks should include three steps: (1) External condition: Are there visible cuts, cracks, bulges, or foreign objects? (2) Rims and valves: Are they clean, intact, and free from leaks? and (3) Tire pressure: Is it properly inflated to match the machine’s load as per manufacturer’s recommendations?
But beyond the basics, Higantis encourages operations to familiarize themselves with common forms of tire damage and how to respond.
5 Common Signs of OTR Tire Damage and What to Do
1. Punctures and Cuts
What happens: Sharp debris penetrates the tread or casing.
Result: Air loss and reduced casing integrity.
Action: If caught early, the tire can often be repaired. If too deep, retire the tire.
2. Tread or Ply Separation
What happens: Cuts or impact lead to layers separating inside the tire.
Result: Heat builds up, enlarging the separation.
Action: Early-stage damage may be fixable.
3. Heat Separation
What happens: Operating above the tire’s TKPH rating (tonne kilometers per hour) or overloading.
Result: Tread or bead separation
Action: Reassess TKPH and loads. Higantis can help calculate your operation’s limits.
4. Turn-Up Separation
What happens: Excessive load causes bending over the flange.
Result: Heat buildup and casing failure.
Action: Adjust loading and remove the tire once steel is exposed.
5. Impact Breaks
What happens: A high-force collision exceeds the tire’s structural capacity.
Result: Blowout or internal casing damage.
Action: Scrap the tire, improve road cleanliness and driver awareness.
The Higantis Edge: More Than Just Tires
At Higantis, tire support doesn’t stop at sales. Their team provides comprehensive OTR tire programs that combine expert guidance, field inspections, and training to improve tire performance and safety on site.
What sets Higantis apart is their deep understanding of real-world operations and their proactive approach through:
Application-based tire recommendations
Routine on-site inspections
Pressure and load audits
Operator and maintenance team training
Mobile servicing and emergency response
Protect Your Investment
With OTR tires representing a significant portion of operational budgets, the need for preventive maintenance and expert advice has never been greater. Whether it’s preventing downtime, extending tire life, or improving overall site safety, partnering with a specialist like Higantis gives you the edge.
Need help assessing your tires, site conditions, or choosing the right replacement?
Contact Higantis today to schedule a professional tire evaluation and explore maintenance solutions tailored to your operations.
The 31st Annual Mining Symposium and Exhibits, organized by the Mindanao Association of Mining Engineers (MAEM) International, Inc. was successfully held on June 2 and 3 at the SMX Convention Center, SM Lanang, Davao City.
Under the inaugural leadership of Engr. Alfredo T. Relampagos, who served as the newly elected MAEM President, the two-day event brought together mining professionals, stakeholders, and innovators from across the country and abroad to explore the future of the mining sector.
This year’s symposium was anchored on the theme, “The Future of Mining Driving Innovation, Strengthening Responsibility, and Building Resilient Economy.”
It highlighted the industry's commitment to being forward-looking, accountable, and environmentally responsible while contributing to the development of a strong and adaptable economy.
MAEM International, Inc.'s annual event spanned four days, with two days dedicated to extracurricular activities and the following two days focused on the symposium and exhibits.
Booth Exhibits
On the morning of June 2, participant registration processed smoothly as attendees arrived and were welcomed with cultural dance performance.
The Symposium and Exhibits officially opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Engr. Relampagos along with Engr. Francisco J. Arañez, Jr (PSEM President), Engr. Teodorico A. Sandoval (OIC, Assistant Director, MGB Central Office), and Beverly Mae M. Brebante (Regional Director, MGB XI).
The exhibits ran for two days, offering participating companies the opportunity to showcase new equipment and innovations beneficial to the mining industry, economy, and community.
Symposium
In the afternoon, the symposium began—not just as a formal gathering, but as a forum for sharing ideas, perspectives, and industry insight. It featured 18 technical presentations delivered by both national and international experts.
Topics covered a wide range of fields, including Mine Planning, Resource Estimation, Geotechnical and Hydrogeological Risk Management, Drilling and Blasting Technology, Safety Engineering, Human Resource Development, Small-Scale and Coal Mining, Tailings Management, and Environmental Sustainability.
The topics and presenters are as follows:
Software-based Mineral Resource - Reserve Estimation - By Engr Josel P. Retardo of Apex Mining Co, Inc.
Unified Geotechnical Monitoring Innovating For a Responsible and Resilient Mining Future - By Geol. Sydharta Kenia D. Aguilar of GroundProbe.
Enhancing Safety and Efficiency in Underground Mining: The Role of Advanced Proximity Detection and Collision Avoidance Systems - By Engr. Justin Alfred V. Palino of Sandvik Tamrock Philippines, Inc.
Applications of Radar Technology in Slope Stability Analysis for Open-Pit Mines: Enhancing Safety and Predictive Monitoring - By Geol. Leovigildo O. Delos Reyes Jr. of Carmen Copper Corporation.
Continuing Professional Specialization Program (CPSP) Updates - By Engr. Ramon N. Santos, Chairman of the Board of Mining Engineering at Professional Regulation Commission.
Developing Innovative Small-Scale Mining Techniques for Different Coal Deposit Geometries in the Philippines: Maximizing Resource Utilization and Local Opportunities - By Engr. Ernie L. Indiola of NATELI’ Mining Engineering Services.
Normet launches a remote explosives charging system – a revolution for underground mining - By Engr. Anssi Mykkänen of Normet
The Modified Dry Stack (DST) Concept: An Alternative Experimental Research to Conventional Slurry Tails Deposition and Paste Fill - By Engr. Virgillo N. Tumbokon of Apex Mining Co, Inc.
Viola Water Technologies for the Mining Sector - By Ms. GAO Chongyi of Gotesco Marketing, Inc.
Sustainable Mined Land Reclamation: The Pujada Nickel Case Study - By Arvin L. Carlom, PhD, EnP of Hallmark Mining Corporation.
Silver Recovery in the TVI Balabag Gold and Silver Project - By Jose Menardo Manicio of TVI Resource Development Philippines, Inc.
The Gutalac Nickel Project: The First Nickel Project in ZamPen - By Geol Rene Boy Velasco of Zamboanga Nickel Corporation.
Hydrologic Modelling for Estimation of Overland Erosion Yield and River Sediment Yield in Mining Areas Using HEC-HMS and HEC-RAS1 - By Engr. Rommel V. Roxas of Permata Resources Inc.
Hinatuan Mining Corp.’s Eco-Driven Initiatives in Advancing Sustainability - By For. Jomer D. Tiamson of Hinatuan Mining Corporation.
The Use of Geosynthetics in Mining - By Engr. Lim Lum Kong of Solmax Geosynthetics Asia Sdn Bhd.
TSF Dam Safety in Focus: Instrumenting TSF Dams for Safer, Smarter Operations - By Mr. Fahmi Aminuddin of Certeza Infosys Corp.
The two-day event offered a well-rounded and engaging experience for everyone involved. It aimed to share valuable insights from recent developments and proven practices in the mining industry.
More than just a learning opportunity, the symposium provided a space for open discussion and collaboration. Participants had numerous opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, industry leaders, and technical experts—sharing ideas and asking questions, to find solutions to the current challenges facing the global mining sector.
Networking
In addition to the informative session, the two-day event also offered ample opportunities for networking and meaningful connections among professionals in the evening.
The event featured live band entertainment that energized the atmosphere, along with a variety of food and beverages for attendees to enjoy as they engaged and unwound with fellow participants.
Extracurricular Activities
This year’s event featured a variety of extracurricular activities that fostered camaraderie and engagement among participants.
A friendly badminton tournament was held on June 1 at Smash Ville Fitness Center with matches played between representatives from MGB XI and students from the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP), showcasing sportsmanship and friendly competition.
The Golf Tournament took place on June 4 at Palos Verdes and Country Club, bringing together industry professionals for a relaxing and competitive day on the greens.
To cap off the week, the Island-Hopping activity offered attendees a chance to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of Samal Island. Participants who joined experienced the vibrant scenery and coastal charm of the island, making for a memorable conclusion to the four-day event.
As the organization moves forward, the ideas shared, connections made, and energy from this year’s symposium are expected to keep the narrative going and help push new efforts that support a mining industry that’s more responsible, innovative, and ready for the future.
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