The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) of the Philippines joined with the representatives from ASEAN member states at the ASEAN Headquarters in Jakarta, Indonesia for the 1st Stakeholder Engagement Workshop. Held from November 6-8, this pivotal event launched the development of the ASEAN Minerals Development Vision (AMDV) and the ASEAN Minerals Cooperation Action Plan (AMCAP-IV), setting the groundwork for the region’s strategic minerals future.

Representing the Philippine delegation was Engr. Romualdo D. Aguilos, Chief of MGB’s Mineral Economics, Information and Publication Division. Demonstrating a unified ASEAN vision, the workshop attendees aimed to establish ASEAN as a global leader in sustainable mineral development in the region. This vision would enhance ASEAN's position as a key supplier of strategic minerals and metals, essential for green technology and international supply chain diversification.

Engaging stakeholders from various sectors, including government agencies, the private sector, and civil society, the workshop emphasized the importance of inclusivity in the AMDV and AMCAP-IV processes. A series of workshops will continue into 2025, with the next engagements scheduled in January and April to refine the stakeholder base and foster cross-sector collaboration.

The three-day event featured discussions on sustainable mineral practices, supply chain resilience, green technology adoption, and digitalization. Keynote speakers included Dr. Kanchana Wanichkorn from the ASEAN Secretariat and Mr. Matthew David Wittenstein of UN ESCAP, among other distinguished representatives from international agencies and organizations.

Highlighting the need for regional cooperation, Engr. Aguilos presented a list of Philippine government, private, and non-government stakeholders poised to contribute to the upcoming workshops. Recommendations were made to enhance regional data on mineral resources, aligning with ASEAN’s goals to attract responsible investment.

The ASEAN Minerals Development Vision is vital in the ASEAN Economic Community post-2025 Strategic Plan, guiding the region towards sustainable resource management and economic integration.

By: Mineral Economics, Information and Publication Division