Nueva Vizcaya gold mine to shut down after permit suspension

MANILA, Philippines —  The Runruno Gold Project is facing imminent shutdown by year-end following the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB)’s order suspending the Dupax exploration permit in Nueva Vizcaya.

Runruno operator FCF Minerals Corp., a subsidiary of London-listed Metals Exploration Plc., said the permit suspension effectively pulled the plug on the project’s “last operational lifeline.”

The mine has been operating on steadily depleting gold ore reserves, with the Dupax exploration permit viewed as the “only viable pathway” to extend its economic life.

The suspension of the exploration permit, however, has brought the program to a halt.

“With Dupax exploration suspended and no ability to complete drilling to define new economic reserves, Runruno will close, having fully depleted its current ore body,” FCF general manager Lorne Harvey said.

“Mining is finite by nature. Without reserve replacement, operations must end,” Harvey said.

The impending shutdown, FCF noted, is expected to affect more than 1,500 employees, contractors, suppliers, transport providers and community-based enterprises.

Beyond employment, local governments also stand to lose revenue shares from the gold mine project after the MGB issued a directive ordering the immediate cease and desist from all exploration activities in the area due to sustained opposition from the local community.

The opposition has led protesters to set up barricades and blockades along the access road to the exploration site.

The FCF, meanwhile, affirmed a commitment to complying with existing laws and environmental standards throughout the closure process.

“We will ensure that Runruno’s closure is carried out safely, responsibly and in full compliance with Philippine regulations,” the mining firm said.