The Philippine Nickel Industry Association (PNIA) has expressed optimism over the upcoming leadership transition at the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), anticipating policy continuity and regulatory improvements under incoming Secretary Raphael Lotilla.
Currently serving as Secretary of Energy, Lotilla is expected to assume his new post at the DENR by mid-June. PNIA praised his “deep experience in public policy, sustainable development, and regulatory governance,” noting his appointment presents an opportunity to reinforce responsible mining and foster a more predictable, science-based regulatory framework.
“Secretary Lotilla brings to the DENR a legacy of policy leadership grounded in law, sustainability, and public service,” PNIA said in a statement, adding that his background in energy, environmental reform, and institutional development positions him to advance inclusive national growth through the mining sector.
The association emphasized the importance of aligning environmental stewardship with industrial competitiveness, voicing readiness to collaborate toward a “modern, accountable, and globally competitive mining industry.”
Lotilla, who served as DOE Secretary under President Arroyo from 2005 to 2007 and again under the current administration since 2022, has yet to formally take his oath at DENR but confirmed he is preparing for the transition.
Until then, he said he remains focused on his duties at the DOE.
