A group of 25 Metallurgical Engineering students from the University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD) visited the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Central Office on March 17, 2025, to observe the fire assay procedure used in gold and silver analysis.
Held at the Metallurgical Technology Division (MeTD), the session gave students, supervised by Asst. Prof. Terrence Louis Rosal, a firsthand look at the traditional and highly accurate method of fire assaying for determining precious metal content, particularly gold and silver. The activity was facilitated by personnel from the Mineral Processing Service and Audit Section (MPSAS): Engr. Geleni Shalaine Bello, Engr. Artemio Celajes Jr., Engr. Marco Paolo Viloria, Engr. Armand Andres, Mr. Arnold Delgado, and Mr. Emerito Ramos, under the supervision of Section Chief Engr. Hector Andres and MeTD Chief Engr. Bernardo Bitanga.
Students observed each stage of the fire assay process from sample preparation to high-temperature fusion, cupellation, and analysis. This hands-on exposure helped bridge their academic learning with real-world laboratory practices.
The initiative highlights the continuing collaboration between MGB and academic institutions to promote experiential learning and enhance industry readiness among future engineers.
Engr. Hector Andres introduces the university visitors
MPSAS personnel demonstrate the fire assay procedures
MeTD-MPSAS personnel with the university visitors
By: Metallurgical Technology Division