A high-level Philippine delegation recently visited the Luleå University of Technology (LTU) last 2 April 2025 in Sweden as part of efforts to deepen cooperation on sustainable mining practices, critical minerals, and research innovation. The trip underscores the country’s commitment to strengthening global partnerships in support of its growing minerals development agenda.
Representing the Philippine government were Undersecretaries Juan Miguel T. Cuna and Joselin Marcus E. Fragada of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), who were accompanied by the Assistant Secretary for Mining Concerns and concurrent OIC Director of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), Michael V. Cabalda, and other technical personnel. The delegation was warmly received by researchers and leadership from LTU’s Centre for Advanced Mining and Metallurgy (CAMM), a premier hub for mining innovation in Northern Europe.
During the visit, both parties exchanged insights on responsible mining, mineral processing, and the evolving role of technology in ensuring sustainable extraction. The Philippine officials also gained insights into Sweden’s approaches to maximizing resource efficiency and reducing environmental impacts within the mining sector.
ASec. Cabalda expressed excitement over what he has witnessed and learned in Sweden and at LTU, saying, “We see Sweden as a bastion of sustainable mining. We want to see how they are doing it and how that knowledge and technology can be transferred to the Philippines. At the end of the day, with the support of the government, everything will be done in the context of sustainable and responsible mining, taking care of communities. From what I've seen and the work being done at the university, I can tell that significant progress has been made—progress that can benefit an industry in the Philippines that is now receiving well-deserved attention from the current administration.”
The visit follows the High-Level Swedish Delegation visit in Manila and LTU’s participation in the 70th Annual National Mine Safety and Environment Conference in Baguio City on 19-22 November 2024, where CAMM Director Thomas Aiglsperger mentioned looking forward to fostering future collaborations with the country for a more sustainable mining industry.
The MGB looks forward to sustained dialogue with Swedish institutions and mining stakeholders, paving the way for transformative partnerships that will benefit both countries.
(Photo from www.ltu.se) DENR Undersecretaries Undersecretaries Juan Miguel T. Cuna and Joselin Marcus E. Fragada, Assistant Secretary for Mining Concerns and concurrent OIC Director of the MGB Michael V. Cabalda, and other technical Personnel with Trade Commissioner Johan Lennefalk and CAMM during their visit at the Lulea University of Technology
(Photo from www.ltu.se) One of many of the labs at the Department of Civil, Environmental and Natural Resources Engineering at LTU
(Photo from www.ltu.se) CAMM Director Thomas Aigspelger gives a tour of one of the university laboratories
By: Policy, Planning and International Affairs Division