The Philippines showed its commitment to sustainable mineral development during the 12th Joint Working Groups Meeting of the ASEAN Minerals Cooperation (ASOMM) held from August 13 to 15, 2024, in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Led by Engr. Teodorico A. Sandoval, Assistant Director of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), the Philippine delegation actively took part in discussions to promote regional collaboration and enhance trade and investment in minerals across Southeast Asia.

The meeting, which brought together representatives from all ASEAN member states, focused on the progress of Phase 2 of the ASEAN Minerals Cooperation Action Plan (AMCAP) 2016-2025. AMCAP’s goal is to create a thriving and sustainable minerals sector in ASEAN, supporting socio-economic growth and environmental well-being.

The Philippines played a prominent role in several discussions. Dr. Karlo L. Queaño, Chief of the Lands Geological Survey Division and representing the Working Group on Capacity Building on Minerals (WGCBM), presided over a session that explored capacity-building initiatives for sustainable mining. He underscored the importance of peer-to-peer learning networks to share the mineral industry's best practices and innovative technologies.

Meanwhile, Mineral Economics, Information and Publication Division Chief Engr. Romualdo D. Aguilos, the focal point for the Working Group on Trade and Investment in Minerals (WGTIM) acted as the vice-chair in place of Mine Safety, Environment, and Social Development Division Chief Engr. H. Marcial H. Mateo

Engr. Sandoval also presented updates on behalf of the Working Group on Mineral Information Database (WGMID), emphasizing the need to enhance data sharing and harmonize digital assets across ASEAN member states, an initiative to improve decision-making processes related to mineral resource exploration and management.

MGB has also released a report detailing the nation’s progress on Action Line TI1.1 and providing updates on the ongoing efforts to refine the ASEAN Minerals Development Vision (AMDV). The report aims to enhance regional collaboration and promote sustainable mining practices among ASEAN member states.

The Declaration on Promoting ASEAN as an Investment Destination for Sustainable Minerals Development, which was adopted during the 9th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Minerals (AMMin) in November 2023 was also discussed in the event.

By: Mineral Economics, Information and Publication Division