For the first time, Agata Mining Ventures Inc., a nickel laterite joint venture company of TVI Resource Development Philippines Inc. and MRL Nickel Philippines, was honored with the Presidential Mineral Industry Environment Award (PMIEA).
PMIEA is the highest award given by the government to mining companies for upholding the Philippine mining industry’s highest safety and environmental standards.
Given during the 65th Annual National Mine Safety and Environment Conference held recently in Baguio City, Agata General Manager engineer Emilio Figueroa 3rd said the award highlights the company’s strong compliance to the standards set by the government to protect the country’s mineral resources.
“Despite the vast challenges in the global markets, the shifting landscape of Philippine legislation and recent natural catastrophes that have affected the country’s mining industry, we are proud to say that our state of unity has never been stronger,” Figueroa said.
He emphasized that while Agata Mining is one of the newest players in the industry, it has successfully integrated social and environmental components into its business plan, landing it a Titanium Award during its first full year of operations.
“At this most opportune time, this win heralds a new hope for clarity, understanding and the forthcoming revitalization of the Philippine mining industry,” Figueroa said.
Earlier, the company was commended by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) office in the Caraga Region for achieving an “excellent performance” for its environmental activities in compliance with its Annual Environmental Protection and Enhancement Program and Environmental Compliance Certificate.
Also awarded with this year’s PMIEA were Nickel Asia Corp.’s subsidiaries Coral Bay Nickel Corp. and Rio Tuba Nickel Mining Corp.
Annual PMEIA awardees are selected by an inter-agency committee composed of MGB, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Health and local government units.