TUBA, Benguet—Philex Mining Corp. has expressed support for government’s call on all miners to be guided by a clear definition of responsible mining to further enable industry players implement best practices and operate based on global standards.
Addressing the Mineral Industry Symposium, Eulalio Austin Jr., Philex Mining’s CEO and president said that the utilization of mineral resources be based on technical feasibility, environmental sustainability, social acceptability, and financial viability—so that the industry will move forward based on what is right.
Austin cited Philex Mining’s “working culture” particularly its founders, “who painstakingly taken into account the protection of the environment, to consider the welfare of workers and look into the upliftment of the lives of the host and neighboring communities where the company operates.”
And having put a human face on responsible mining through the development of communities, paying the required taxes religiously, and being on the forefront of environment protection through forestation and reforestation, Austin said Philex Mining was now “braver to charter unexplored territories,” and that “we will raise the bar on responsible mining.”
In a separate forum during the four-day 63rd Annual National Mine Safety and Environment Conference (ANMSEC) organized by the Philippine Mine Safety and Environment Association, Austin stressed that Philex Mining had institutionalized its mine-waste management and social development programs in the past years.
Austin said that he’s elated that Philex Mining was one of those companies not recommended for suspension, referring to the recent technical mine audit conducted by government regulators on all mining companies nationwide.
“And this can be attributed to the hard work and dedication of its men and women in ensuring strict adherence to given mining standards and processes through the years.” Austin added.