PNIA members are driving competitiveness in the nickel mining industry through strong
adherence to sustainability
<hr>News Highlights
- PNIA members have reported a PHP 4.3 billion investment for 2023 aimed at advancing the SDGs
to support community development and resilience. - The announcement is made in recognition of the 9th anniversary of the United Nations’ adoption
of the SDGs, underscoring the nickel industry’s commitment to sustainability, resilience, and
stewardship. - PNIA’s initiatives primarily support three key SDGs: Life on Land (SDG 15), No Poverty (SDG 1),
and Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3), reflecting their commitment to both environmental and
community welfare. - Investments focus on uplifting local communities by creating job opportunities, providing
scholarships, and enhancing public infrastructure across 7 provinces, directly benefiting
thousands of residents surrounding the mining sites of PNIA members. - These initiatives demonstrate a strong adherence to sustainability principles, ensuring that mining
activities support economic growth while fostering resilient communities.
<hr>The Philippine Nickel Industry Association (PNIA) has announced a PHP 4.3 billion
investment from its members for 2023, aimed at advancing key Sustainable Development
Goals (SDGs) that foster community development and resilience through their Environmental
Enhancement and Protection, Social Development and Management, and Corporate Social
Responsibility Programs.
This announcement was made in commemoration of the 9th anniversary of the United
Nations’ adoption of the SDGs on September 25, underscoring the sector’s commitment to
sustainable practices as the 2030 deadline approaches.
The investments were implemented across multiple host and neighboring cities and
municipalities in 7 provinces, including Zambales, Palawan, Surigao del Sur, Surigao del
Norte, Dinagat Islands, and Tawi-Tawi, directly benefiting communities surrounding the
mining sites of PNIA members.
This funding, channeled through Social Development and Management Programs (SDMP),
Environmental Protection and Enhancement Programs (EPEP), and Corporate Social
Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, underscores the nickel mining sector’s dedication to sustainable development in the Philippines. PNIA’s programs and projects support 15 out of
17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a particular focus on Life on Land (SDG
15), No Poverty (SDG 1), and Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3).
PNIA President Atty. Dante R. Bravo stated, “The contributions made in 2023 build on our
findings from the 2020 SDG Report, reinforcing our commitment to SDG 15, SDG 1, and
SDG 3 which are areas where mining is vital for sustainable development. Each year, we
strive to align with sustainability, stewardship, and resilience principles to mitigate
environmental impacts, alleviate poverty, and improve health outcomes for communities near
mining operations. These goals are essential for the sustainability of both the environment
and the communities we serve.”
Bravo further called for collaboration with local government units (LGUs) to streamline and
maximize the implementation of mining company SDG programs to better complement LGU
initiatives. “Mining is inherently a temporary use of land, which means that collaboration
between LGUs, MGB, and mining companies is crucial for planning for the future. There is
opportunity for further collaboration through maximizing the Corporate Social Responsibility
(CSR) activities of mining companies to complement the programs of the LGUs in line with
their local development goals,” Bravo said.
Under SDG 15, PNIA members’ progressive rehabilitation and other initiatives aim to
minimize and mitigate its impact to the environment. In 2023, members planted over 4.3
million trees nearly 9500 hectares, comprising 76 different species, bringing the total to nearly
18 million trees to date of reporting. Partnerships with academic institutions like the University
of the Philippines Los Baños have fostered innovation in forest restoration and
bioremediation. Additionally, PNIA members have engaged in other initiatives, such as
coastal clean-ups and river system adoption.
Aligned with SDG 1, PNIA members have focused on uplifting communities through
employment, education, and infrastructure development. Their livelihood programs created
job opportunities, fostering economic stability in local areas. Educational initiatives provided
scholarships and improved classroom infrastructure, benefiting over a thousand students
across elementary, secondary, and tertiary levels.
In support of SDG 3, PNIA members’ health initiatives have delivered essential medical
supplies and equipment to underserved communities. Medical missions and feeding
programs have addressed basic health needs, while upgrades to local hospitals have
improved healthcare access.
Atty. Bravo emphasized, “Investing PHP 4.3 billion in 2023 strengthens local economies and
aligns with government directives on the role of mining in promoting national economic
development and local community resilience, contributing to improved lives and the building
of resilient communities, particularly in remote areas where economic opportunities are
limited.”
In addition, PNIA members have supported the construction and enhancement of public
infrastructure, including roads, water facilities, and community halls, facilitating better access
to essential services, enhancing transportation, and promoting economic activities by
connecting communities to markets and resources. In 2023, their efforts provided direct
assistance to 1,281 families affected by natural calamities, underscoring the role of mining
companies as first responders during disasters. Their contributions also enriched mining
communities through sponsorships of local events and festivals, fostering community spirit
and supporting the overall well-being of the areas they serve.
Atty. Bravo concludes, “As the Philippines is among the largest producers of nickel in the
world, we are committed to contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),
driven by the strong long-term demand for nickel and its essential role in supporting economic
growth. PNIA shall continue to implement responsible mining practices that promote
economic development, environmental sustainability, and foster resilient communities,
recognizing that a competitive nickel mining industry is marked by a strong adherence to the
tenets of sustainable development.”
<hr>ABOUT PNIA. The Philippine Nickel Industry Association, Inc. (PNIA) is a non-stock, nonprofit
association registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Established in
2012, PNIA serves as the unified voice of the nickel industry, advocating for its role as a
globally competitive and responsible driver of inclusive and sustainable economic growth in
the Philippines. Through its Nickel Initiative, PNIA promotes collaboration with the
government and various stakeholders to enhance the competitiveness of the nickel industry,
anchored in responsible mining and sustainable development. For more information about
PNIA, please visit www.philippinenickel.org.
<hr>For media inquiries, please contact:
Mr. Arnel Vasquez
arnelvasquez@rebelmarketing.com.ph
+63 949 990 5658