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Celsius Resources (ASX/AIM: CLA) is pleased to announce that its Philippine affiliate, Makilala Mining Company, Inc. (MMCI), has secured a six-month extension to fulfil funding requirements for its Maalinao-Caigutan-Biyog (MCB) Copper-Gold Project.
Granted by the Philippine Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), the extension is strategically significant for MMCI and its prospective investor, Maharlika Investment Corporation (MIC).
The decision enables both parties to work towards demonstrating the financial capability mandated by their mineral production sharing agreement (MPSA).
The additional six-month period, effective until March 13, 2025, provides MMCI and MIC the necessary time to complete due diligence and regulatory approvals essential to finalising an investment agreement.
Established as a sovereign wealth fund by the Philippine government in 2023, Maharlika has approximately USD $5 billion at its disposal with the aim to catalyse economic growth in the Philippines, through strategic investments in critical sectors, including natural resources, energy, infrastructure, and agriculture.
MIC’s potential involvement in the MCB Project signifies confidence in the project’s economic potential and aligns with its goals to boost sustainable development.
“Since the issuance of the MCB Project’s mining permit, investor interest has been robust, both from within the Philippines and internationally,” said Celsius Resources Executive Chairman Julito R. Sarmiento.
“An investment from Maharlika would be transformational, not just for the MCB copper project which will be mined through sustainable practices, but for the entire Province of Kalinga providing employment, infrastructure and economic sustainable growth.”
Situated in the Cordillera Administrative Region, the MCB Project boasts promising copper and gold reserves.
A JORC-compliant resource estimate from 2022 indicated 338 million tonnes at 0.47% copper, underscoring the project’s significant potential.
Celsius Resources is primarily focused on advancing multiple copper-gold assets in the Philippines including the Botilao Prospect and Sagay Copper-Gold Project, in addition to the MCB Copper-Gold Project.
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved up to almost USD1.7 billion in funding for the Laguna Lakeshore Road Network Project (LLRN) to promote regional connectivity and reduce travel time between Manila and Laguna province.
In a statement on Thursday, the ADB said the amount will be used to help build a climate-resilient 37.5-kilometer (km) expressway along the lake.
The ADB said the support to the LLRN will be via a multitranche financing facility consisting of two loans, a USD1.2 billion first tranche loan, and a USD509.5 million second tranche loan.
The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank is co-financing the project with an additional USD188.2 million loan.
Under the LLRN, the ADB will fund the construction of a 29.56-km section of the new expressway, including bridges and viaducts that will traverse waterways flowing into the Laguna Lake, located southeast of Manila.
The ADB said the project aims to provide the most resilient road link within the southern Manila transport corridor and cut peak hour travel time between Taguig City in Metro Manila to Calamba City in Laguna province by 25 percent.
The 7.89-km northern section of the new expressway will be funded by a USD904.35 million loan from the Export–Import Bank of Korea, Economic Development Cooperation Fund under a parallel financing scheme.
“This investment further cements ADB’s commitment to help transform our host country’s transport infrastructure by facilitating climate- and disaster-resilient and sustainable development," said ADB Country Director for the Philippines Pavit Ramachandran
The project will help link people to jobs and business opportunities, reduce transport costs and traffic congestion, and improve the efficiency of the overall transport network in Metro Manila and nearby regions,” he added.
The LLRN is expected to benefit about 3.47 million people residing along the lake and nearby areas and improve access to markets and public services.
By Wei Wei, Product Manager, and Ricky Chua, Sales Manager, Fluke Calibration, Fluke South East Asia Pte Ltd
Calibration plays a pivotal role in the mining industry, ensuring safety, enhanced productivity, and adherence to regulatory compliance standards. As the Philippines mining sector strives to meet increasing demands, accurate calibration of equipment becomes more critical than ever. This article explores the importance of calibration, the essential tools and maintenance practices required to support calibration, the benefits of digital documentation, and best practices for control systems maintenance, providing expert insights to help mining companies optimize their operations.
Key Benefits of Calibration
Safety is paramount in mines, where workers are often exposed to high-risk environments. Properly calibrated equipment, such as pressure wells and temperature switches, function accurately, thereby safeguarding workers. This is essential in the high pressure and high temperature environments of mines. Regular calibration helps prevent accidents, making the mining environment safer for everyone involved.
Calibration also plays a crucial role in reducing unplanned operation downtime, optimizing operations and lowering costs, which leads to higher productivity and better resource management. Yields rates are significantly boosted as the ability to take accurate measurements improves control over processes such as crushing, grinding, and flotation, essential for maintaining a high production yield.
Mines must comply with predetermined regulatory standards, both in terms of environmental protection and quality. Failure to comply can result in the shutdown of the mine. Environmental compliance requires the accurate monitoring of emissions. The calibration of instruments ensures the reliable reporting of accurate data that supports compliance with industry standards.
This is all important because, with mining being at the top of the supply chain, disruptions in mining operations has a knock-on effect throughout the downstream supply chain, with concerning economic consequences. It is essential that mines optimize processes to minimize downtime, and the key to this is to apply a predictive maintenance framework.
Maintenance Practices for Ensuring Consistent Output
Predictive maintenance is an advanced approach that uses historical data and regular inspections to predict potential equipment failures before they occur. The first step is to schedule regular equipment checks. Over time, data is collected to establish benchmarks and detect patterns that can signal potential equipment failure before any physical signs become evident. This early detection of symptoms allows for the implementation of proactive measures, lowering the cost of repairs and extending the equipment lifecycle. Ultimately, the collection and analysis of this rich pool of data not only prevents unplanned downtime but also optimizes calibration intervals, ensuring equipment is always operated at peak efficiency.
Continuous training and development of the workforce are also essential practices to employ to maintain calibration standards. Regular training sessions keep workers updated on the latest techniques and technologies, enhancing their ability to perform calibration tasks accurately. Cross-training workers in multiple disciplines further increases operational flexibility and ensures continuity during shift changes.
Open pit mining with several processes.
The Move to Digital Documentation
The manual recording of calibration data is impractical as it is highly labour-intensive and involves the collection and physical storage of high volumes of data. Digital documentation has become increasingly important with the rise of automated sensors in mining operations. This method involves electronically recording and storing the information collected within the calibration tool itself. Information captured includes the reading results, date of calibration, operator’s details and records of adjustments made. Digital documentation also removes the risk of human error as data collection is automated.
Digital records also support compliance with industry standards such as ISO 17025, which specifies the requirements for the general competence of testing and calibration. Maintaining a complete calibration history for each instrument across its lifecycle is crucial for traceability and audits, especially when investigating accidents. Being able to audit and identify causation leads to better practices baked into the mining operations moving forward.
Supporting a "Carry Less, Do More" Mindset
The introduction of multifunction calibrators has revolutionized the calibration process in mining operations. These devices combine the capabilities of several single-function instruments into one, significantly enhancing efficiency and reducing the physical burden on workers. An example is the Fluke 754 Documenting Process Calibrator with HART communication, which can measure pressure, temperature, and electrical signals with a single handheld device weighing only 1.2 kg and can be easily carried in a bag. The battery-powered device with its built-in interface is designed for portable use and actually performs better in its battery-powered mode.
Multifunction calibrators like the Fluke 754 enable workers to perform various calibration tasks with a single device, reducing the need to carry multiple pieces of instruments. This innovation not only enhances efficiency but also improves overall productivity. “In the past, workers had to carry multiple devices, each weighing up to 1 kg,” explains Wei Wei, Regional Product Manager, Fluke Calibration, Fluke South East Asia Pte Ltd. “Now, with multifunction calibrators, they carry just one instrument which can be up to a third of the weight of the multiple devices they had to carry previously. This makes a huge difference when factoring in the time and distance these devices need to be carried.”
Best Practices for Control Systems Maintenance
Routine Testing - Regular testing of control systems, including Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, is vital for smooth operations. These systems act as the brain of mining operations, and their failure can have significant impact. Routine testing is crucial to ensure control systems don’t break down.
Emergency Handling - An up-to-date emergency response plan is essential for handling unexpected system failures. This plan should be in continual development, based on lessons learned, and should include detailed steps for troubleshooting and restoring operations quickly.
The Fluke 773 Milliamp Process Clamp Meter is an example of a tool that aids in both routine testing and emergency handling. It can measure signals without shutting down the control system and acts as a loop power source during troubleshooting.
Calibration is fundamental to the safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance of mining operations in the Philippines. By investing in modern calibration tools, implementing predictive maintenance practices, and adopting digital documentation, mining companies can optimize their operations and ensure consistent delivery of essential materials. Prioritizing calibration not only enhances productivity but also positions companies as leaders in the industry, ready to meet the demands of a growing market.
The recent October monthly meeting of the Philippine Mining and Exploration Association (PMEA) was filled to capacity as industry players eagerly awaited the keynote of newly appointed Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Assistant Secretary (ASec.) for Mining Concerns and concurrent OIC Director of the Mines & Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Michael Cabalda.
In his prepared speech, ASec. Cabalda highlighted a number of initiatives including: (1) pushing a proposed Department Administrative (DAO) order articulating a policy framework that would allow the country to gain from our mineral wealth; (2) streamlining the permitting process to reduce the time to 11 months or shorter; and (3) reviewing the Small Scale Mining Act to formalize small scale miners and increase their contributions. These initiatives envision a mining industry that is not only an ore supplier but a critical player in mineral processing and downstream manufacturing.
The more spirited portion of the program was the Q&A where it was apparent that the audience was keen to hear directly from Assistant Secretary Cabalda in his first engagement with industry since his appointment.
Asked how soon the MGB will be able to implement the above policy changes, particularly the reduction of the processing period for permits, Assistant Secretary Cabalda credited DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga for leading these initiatives, foremost of which is giving the MGB Director the authority to sign documents that previously needed to be cleared. He also spoke about a more active MGB with respect to the pricing of nickel, statistics on safety and environment, among others.
Most encouraging was his assurance “Help me out and I’ll try to deliver and give you what you need.” He added that the “MGB is your partner. We will be with you when you do your work.” His warning “and we will punish you when you don’t” drew laughter from the crowd.
A recurring theme was the need for communication between the government and the private sector and institutionalizing a mechanism for government to address problems raised by industry. A suggestion to hold regular dialogs with industry was well received.
In addition, Asec. Cabalda expressed the need to touch base with his ‘council of elders’ or the MGB old-timers who possess the institutional knowledge and experience to be applied to (not-so-new) issues. This is expected to promote consistency in the MGB’s interpretation and application of issuances across the different regional offices. He likewise reiterated that he intends to build on what MGB, and the regional directors have done.
Another key strategy is to digitize all records and information to eliminate the current antiquated paper-based system. With information being available online and available in real time, there will be greater transparency, as well as identification of where the bottlenecks are.
As Asec. Cabalda discussed the need for coordination with other government agencies, particularly the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples and the Department of Interior and Local Government, I recalled his comments (prior to his appointment) during the May 2024 “Mining Summit” where he said that there is no need to reinvent the wheel as there is an existing and comprehensive Minerals Action Plan prepared by the Minerals Development Council back in 2004, with specific and detailed items to address the identified challenges. Even 19 years later, it is replete with implementable action items.
It bodes well that our new MGB Director is approaching his role with openness and candor. The industry can do no less by responding in kind.
***
Postscript: Due to family commitments, I missed the Chamber of Mines’ “Digging Deeper” Policy Forum and will also miss, for the first time in recent years, PMSEA’s Annual National Mine Safety and Environment Conference (ANMSEC).
The ANMSEC has always been an opportunity for Diwata-Women in Resource Development to contribute to the discussion of important mining issues, as well inviting the participation of the ambassadors of countries which are developed mining jurisdictions.
One particularly memorable event for me was our 2012 forum featuring the Deputy Mineral Resources Minister of South Africa, Godfrey Oliphant. He was a fiery and outspoken advocate for mining, despite his once being a member of South Africa’s Communist Party. His story of how he came to realize the important role that mining played in South Africa’s economy was the perfect counterpoint to the student activists who had met him in UP Baguio.
The Weir Group PLC (Weir), a global mining technology leader, has been awarded contracts to supply its market-leading WARMAN® slurry pumps and CAVEX® hydrocyclones to Teck’s Highland Valley Copper (HVC) Mine Life Extension (MLE) project in Canada.
Teck’s Highland Valley Copper Mine Life Extension Project aims to extend the mine’s operational life by enhancing existing site infrastructure, addressing the growing demand for copper driven by the transition to a low-carbon future. The project is expected to yield approximately 1.95 million tons of additional copper over its lifespan.
A cornerstone of this project is the WARMAN® MCR® 760 pump, which will be the largest mill circuit pump in North America. This addition complements Weir’s existing and planned installations of equivalent-sized pumps in South America and Australia. The WARMAN® MCR® 760 pump was developed to meet the demand for mill circuit pumps that can handle unprecedentedly high flow rates, minimising the number of operating lines in a plant, and addressing the global trend of declining ore grades that require increased throughput for economical mineral recovery. The WARMAN® MCR® 760 pump is designed to maximise wear life in arduous mill duties and facilitate easy and safe maintenance, regardless of an operator’s maintenance schedule or approach.
In addition, Weir will supply CAVEX® 800CVX and 650CVX hydrocyclones for the MLE Project. HVC, with their experience operating CAVEX® hydrocyclones, has chosen this trusted solution for its consistently high classification efficiency, capacity and low maintenance requirements.
The MLE project will be fully supported by the local Weir service center in Kamloops, British Columbia, ensuring that mission-critical equipment at the HVC mine operates efficiently. The proximity of this service center means that any maintenance or support needs can be addressed promptly, minimising downtime and helping the mine maintain its targets. This local presence is crucial for the mine’s operations, providing reliable access to necessary parts and expert service.
Quinton Sutherland, Weir, Divisional Senior Product Manager, Pumps said:
‘Weir has a proven track record of supplying and supporting the largest, highest capacity mill pumps on the market. Designing, manufacturing, and supporting pumps of this scale presents unique technical and engineering challenges, which is why Weir’s team of experts, drawing on decades of experience supporting customers across the globe, are the best choice when deciding who to trust with the most critical mill circuit operations.
‘It’s an engineering and manufacturing feat that’s not easily replicable, which is why it’s important that we can demonstrate to our customers that we’ve done this before, and they know that they can have absolute confidence in us.
With declining ore grades and increased demand, miners are increasingly looking for solutions to increase their throughput and our pumps play a pivotal role in ensuring they continue to meet their production targets.
Phil Blondin, Weir, Director, Capital Sales North America said:
‘Weir prioritises being close to our customers wherever they are in the world. We have a service centre in Kamloops – a close drive to HVC – and a local team that can provide service and maintenance support, as well as an inventory program that encompasses the lifecycle of the products we supply.
‘This is the first mill pump this large in North America and, while Weir has manufactured and installed pumps this size in other parts of the world, we recognise that having a service network to support customers at every stage of the project is an essential part of what we’re offering.’
[Oct. 17, 2024] The Westin Manila -- Digging Deeper: A Mining Philippines Policy Forum is a one-day conference that tackles the most pressing legal and regulatory issues of the mining industry today.
On his Welcome Address, Atty. Michael T. Toledo, Chairman at Chamber of Mines of the Philippines, emphasized the need to address key challenges in the country’s mining sector. Toledo outlined the obstacles hindering the country’s mineral processing industry and called for immediate reforms to boost investor confidence and secure the industry’s long-term future.
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