Metallic production value dropped from PhP27.84 billion in Q1 2019 to PhP24.86 billion in Q1 2020, down by PhP2.98 billion.
The lackluster start was attributed mainly to the following: zero production of one of the country’s major mining projects, Didipio Gold Project of OceanaGold Phils. Inc. (OGPI) located in Nueva Vizcaya and disruption in the mining operations of mining projects throughout the country amid the COVID 19 pandemic where movements of people and supplies were restricted. Last year, during the same period OGPI accounted for about PhP3.64 billion worth of copper, gold, and silver.
In terms of contribution to the total metal mineral production value, precious metal gold led with an impressive share of 43%, or PhP10.66 billion. Direct-shipping nickel ore together with its nickel products, mixed nickel-cobalt sulfide (MNCS), and scandium oxalate closely took the second spot accounting for 41% or PhP10.29 billion. Meanwhile, copper followed with 15% or PhP3.69 billion. The combined output value of silver and chromite contributed 0.90% or PhP0.22 billion.