The onboarding of the Research and Development Project titled "Project ORE: Optimizing Resource Exploration – Integrating Spectrometry and Lithogeochemical Tools for the Advanced Characterization of Critical Minerals in Magmatic Hydrothermal Deposits," held on March 25-28, 2025, at the Petrolab Building, serves as a pivotal platform for advancing our understanding of critical minerals. The integration of spectrometry and lithogeochemical tools enhances the Bureau’s current exploration methods, refining the characterization of magmatic hydrothermal deposits. This initiative not only bridges gaps in mineral exploration but also aligns with national goals for sustainable mineral development.
The workshop’s specific objectives emphasize a structured approach to project implementation. Participants from the MGB-Central and Regional Offices, along with consultants from UP-NIGS and UP-DGE, were introduced to project timelines, expected deliverables, and individual responsibilities.
During this activity, Karlo L. Queaño, Ph.D., Chief of the LGSD, emphasized the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration in geological research and exploration. Bernadette M. Buladaco, Senior Geologist and Project Ore Planning Officer Designate, provided updates on project progress and personnel roles, highlighting the necessity of clear tasking and deliverables to meet objectives within the set timeline. By identifying possible setbacks early, the team can proactively devise strategies to mitigate risks in geological studies.
Discussions on the geology and mineralization within the target sites in Basay and Sipalay focused on identifying effective work approaches, with John Esteban Cari presenting initial target delineations by integrating available geological data. Methodologies for the geological mapping, geochemical surveying, and hyperspectral mapping activities were also presented, incorporating input from project personnel to refine data collection processes. Additionally, an overview of MGB’s laboratory services highlighted the development of a structured framework that integrates advanced laboratory techniques, enhancing precision in mineral characterization.
The discussions on Days 3 and 4 underline the importance of strategic planning and inclusivity in geological projects. Ms. Buladaco's presentation on the Work and Financial Plan emphasized the necessity for a comprehensive approach to resource management in accomplishing the target objectives. Furthermore, Ms. April C. Ondona’s focus on gender mainstreaming within Project Ore highlights an essential shift toward inclusivity. By addressing gender disparities, projects can foster diverse perspectives that enhance decision-making processes. Lastly, to ensure that the newly hired personnel are well-oriented in their roles, Ms. Leilanie M. Saunders, the Officer-In-Charge of the Human Resource Management System (HRMS) provided an orientation session to equip them with the necessary knowledge for their responsibilities.
The Project ORE team synthesized the agreements from the workshop and developed strategies for effective implementation. This initiative represents a strategic effort to harmonize diverse expertise towards optimizing resource exploration. By integrating advanced methodologies, the project fosters a more collaborative scientific community dedicated to sustainable mineral resource exploration.
Photo 1. Dr. Karlo L. Queaño, the Project Leader and Chief of the Lands Geological Survey Division, delivered the opening remarks for the event. Ms. Bernadette M. Buladaco, the Planning Officer Designate of the project, introduced the project to align the involved personnel on its objectives, deliverables, and commitments.
Photo 2. Aside from the personnel in the Lands Geological Survey Divison, this onboarding activity is also joined by the technical consultants from the University of the Philippines and the personnel involved from the MGB Regional Office No. VI and VII.
Photo 3. On the second day of this activity, the focal personnel of Phase I (Geological Mapping and Geochemical Sampling) and Phase II (Hyperspectral Mapping) presented and discussed the proposed methodologies. The output’s validation approach was also discussed with the technical consultants.
Photo 4. To facilitate the onboarding of newly hired personnel, Ms.Leilani M. Saunders, Officer-in-Charge of the Human Resource Management Section, gave the orientation on the administrative policies of the Office. The Project ORE team was also joined by other newly hired personnel of the Lands Geological Survey Division.