The Philippine government is preparing an executive order that would cut mining permit processing time by at least half, a move aimed at improving the country’s competitiveness and attracting fresh investment into its mineral sector.
Officials said the proposed reform would streamline procedures while keeping environmental and regulatory safeguards intact.
At a forum on the Philippines–Canada partnership in Makati City on Friday, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo said simplifying the permitting process is a priority reform under the current administration.
“This is something that was started by DENR to make sure that the permitting process will be cutting red tape, but not cutting corners,” Rodolfo said.
Among the changes under discussion is allowing the simultaneous submission of permits and licenses instead of requiring applicants to file them sequentially. The approach is expected to significantly shorten overall processing time.
Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Undersecretary Carlos Primo David said the draft executive order—now awaiting the President’s signature—will also clarify procedures and establish a one-stop shop for mining permits.
The target is to cut processing time by the DENR from roughly two years to less than one year.
“We want to cut it down to less than a year of processing,” David said.
Still, the total approval timeline often extends well beyond the DENR’s control. Mining projects must also secure endorsements from local government units and obtain free, prior and informed consent from indigenous peoples.
Some industry estimates have put the full permitting process at up to 11 years. David said such figures reflect delays outside the DENR’s jurisdiction.
“The 11 years refers to the entire process because we are waiting for other permits,” he said.
Faster approvals could help unlock investment in a country rich in nickel, copper and gold reserves.
