Members of the Philippine Nickel Industry Association (PNIA) have invested P4.3 billion in sustainability efforts, targeting key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to enhance community resilience and environmental protection.
The funding was allocated to various programs across seven provinces, including Zambales and Palawan, benefiting local communities near mining operations.
The PNIA initiatives support 15 of the 17 SDGs, with a focus on Life on Land (SDG 15), No Poverty (SDG 1), and Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3). President Dante Bravo highlighted the importance of collaboration with local government units to ensure effective implementation of these initiatives, which include extensive tree planting and health services for underserved communities.
In 2023 alone, PNIA members planted over 4.3 million trees, contributing to a total of nearly 18 million. The association’s efforts also encompass job creation, education, infrastructure development, and healthcare improvements.
Bravo emphasized that these investments not only bolster local economies but also align with national directives on mining’s role in sustainable development, particularly in remote areas where opportunities are limited.