The Mines and Geosciences Bureau – Metallurgical Technology Division (MeTD) joined the celebration of the 6th National Mining, Geology, and Metallurgy Conference and Workshop at Davao City last March 5-9, 2019 with the theme “Science, Logic & Engineering: Transcending the Essence of the Natural Resources through Factual and Scientific Media- Based Information”. MeTD Senior Metallurgist, Engr. Bernardo V. Bitanga, was invited to be a resource speaker on the event’s Metallurgy and Geology Plenary Session and General Symposium. His discussion focused on the mineral processing practices in the Philippines and the status of the iron and steel industry in the country. Engr. Bitanga talked about the currently utilized mineral processing technologies, the gaps and major challenges being faced by the mineral processing industry, and the future undertakings for the development of the processing and extraction of our strategic minerals.
This annual celebration organized by the National Mining, Geology and Metallurgy Students Organization, the oldest interschool organization in the country composed of students taking up courses of Geology, Mining Engineering and Metallurgical Engineering, aims to create a platform for discussion of the new developments in mining and mineral industry. This year’s host was the University of Southeastern Philippines. The conference-workshop was participated by around four hundred (400) students from ten (10) different schools in the Philippines and various professionals from the government and private mining sectors.
The three (3)-day event covered several activities including seminars, fora, mine visits, paper presentations, workshop, IEC campaign, booth exhibition, literary contest, sports activities and social nights. Aside from indulging the participants with the latest technical knowledge, such activity also promotes camaraderie, sense of responsibility and strong connection among the future professionals in the fields of geology, mining and metallurgy. As stated in the message of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, “I rely on your commitment to mold leaders who will use the earth’s resources with prudence. I trust that you will be stewards of sustainability as we all do our part in steering our nation towards lasting progress”.
Opening Ceremony of the 6th National Mining, Geology, and Metallurgy Conference and Workshop
Engr. Bernardo V. Bitanga’s Presentation during the Metallurgy Plenary Symposium
Discussion on the Copper Processing Practice in the Philippines
By: Metallurgical Technology Division