Miners seeking to regain status as major exporter

THE Chamber of Mines of the Philippines (CoMP) said recent mining reforms hold the potential to return the industry to its former status as a leading producer of Philippine exports.

CoMP Chairman Michael T. Toledo, speaking at the 2025 Mining Philippines International Conference and Exhibition, said he was confident that the reforms can attract the kind of investment that will revive the sector.

He cited as possible catalysts for the industry the lifting of the ban on open-pit mining, the new tax system for large scale mining, and the streamlining of the permit process for miners.

He said these developments can bring the industry closer to when “mining accounted for over 20% of our export earnings.”

“If we continue to operate responsibly, sustainably, and transparently, mining can once again become one of the strongest drivers of our economy.”

Mr. Toledo said the Philippines now ranks 16th in investment attractiveness, according to a survey by the Fraser Institute, which he says could “unlock billions in investment.”

Environment Secretary Raphael P. M. Lotilla said future reforms will continue to promote responsible mining while building sustainability within the industry, adding minerals are no longer “commodities to extract but assets for a clean-energy future and inclusive progress.”

He added that because of climate change, “we have adopted a climate and ecosystem-based lens in evaluating mining projects.”

In 2026, the Mines and Geoscience Bureau will launch a Mineral Mapping and Inventory program to ensure operations are in line with UN Sustainable Development Goals, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources said. — Andre Christopher H. Alampay