The government sees brighter prospects for the country’s mining sector as recent policy reforms continue to attract fresh investments and restore confidence in the industry, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Raphael Lotilla said at the opening of the Mining Philippines 2025 International Conference and Exhibition.
Lotilla said the Philippines is entering a “renewed period of energy and momentum” for mining, citing the lifting of the moratorium on new projects, the removal of the open-pit mining ban and the passage of a new fiscal regime for large-scale metallic mining, which was signed into law by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in September 2025.
“These are not small steps; they signal a real turning point,” Lotilla said.
“For years, we’ve said that responsible mining can be a partner in nation-building. Today, that belief is finally reflected in government policy,” he said.
He said reforms were beginning to yield results, pointing to the Philippines’ sharp rise in the Fraser Institute’s 2024 Annual Survey of Mining Companies.
The country climbed to the 16th spot in investment attractiveness from 72nd in 2023, and to 25th in policy perception from 79th the previous year.
“This shows how steady reforms are paying off,” Lotilla said.
“It sends a clear message: the Philippines is open for responsible, quality investment,” he said.
The environment chief said a strong mining industry could once again become one of the country’s key economic drivers.
He noted that mining previously contributed over 20 percent of export earnings, and with continued reforms, “it can do so again — maybe even more.”
Lotilla said the sector’s growth potential hinges on consistent regulatory policies, improved infrastructure, affordable energy, and better coordination between national and local governments.
“If we get this right, we can unlock billions in investments, create thousands of jobs, and uplift communities that need it most,” he said.
He also reaffirmed support for sustainable and responsible mining practices, noting the Chamber of Mines’ Towards Sustainable Mining initiative as a key example of the industry’s transformation.
“We’re not defending mining as it was. We’re shaping what mining should be — where responsible mining becomes second nature, and irresponsible mining becomes unacceptable,” he said.
