MANILA, Philippines — Local miners have voiced their support for the government’s plan to create a national critical minerals framework to boost mining investments in the country.
The Chamber of Mines of the Philippines (COMP) said it fully supports Executive Order (EO) 122, which establishes a national policy framework for critical minerals.
The EO also seeks to strengthen the Mining Industry Coordinating Council (MICC) through reorganization, and streamlines mining permit approval.
“EO 122 recognizes that critical minerals are essential to national industrialization, energy security, economic resilience and the global green transition,” the group said.
The chamber added that it backs the order’s emphasis on policy stability, regulatory consistency and transparency.
“Securing long-term capital for exploration, mine development and mineral processing requires a predictable environment that builds investor confidence,” COMP said.
The order, signed by President Marcos on Aug. 21, establishes the Unified National Policy Framework for Developing the Critical Minerals Industry, amid the country’s push to improve the mining sector.
The mandate empowers the government to advance the development and use of critical minerals while also supporting downstream processing.
The order also seeks to ensure that local mineral resources contribute not only to the global energy transition but also to domestic industrial needs, such as clean energy technologies, digital infrastructure and major public projects.
The Mines and Geosciences Bureau said it had identified about nine million hectares of land that could potentially host critical mineral resources.
COMP said economic growth must also align with sound stewardship and social responsibility, noting that EO 122 prioritizes the rights, welfare and culture of host communities and Indigenous Peoples.
“The industry’s expansion will remain anchored in high environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards, rigorous environmental management and meaningful community partnership,” the chamber said.
The group also commended the order’s focus on inter-agency coordination and process digitalization.
It stressed that streamlining mining requirements eliminates unnecessary delays while preserving vital safeguards, “positioning the Philippines as a globally competitive investment hub without compromising environmental or social standards.”
COMP said that it stands ready to collaborate with all stakeholders to implement EO 122.
“Together, we can build a competitive, responsible and sustainable critical minerals sector, one that creates lasting value, protects local ecosystems and drives inclusive national development,” it added.