The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) forecasts a favorable 2026 for the mining sector, driven by strong global demand for energy transition minerals and steady commodity prices. In the first quarter, total metallic production value jumped 28.6 percent year-on-year to ₱82.78 billion, from ₱64.35 billion in 2025, boosted by higher prices and improved output in key minerals.
Gold led the sector at ₱53.78 billion or 65 percent of total value, rising 31.2 percent despite lower volume. Nickel and related products followed at ₱20.89 billion, up 36.3 percent while copper reached ₱6.36 billion, a slight drop in value. Silver, chromite, and iron ore combined grew 53 percent to ₱1.76 billion. Volume-wise, nickel ore and scandium oxalate posted sharp gains, while gold, silver, and copper volumes declined.
To support growth and formalize operations, MGB is rolling out Mobile One-Stop Shop (MOSS) services across mining regions. This program simplifies registration and compliance, connects small miners to legitimate buyers including the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, and aims to curb informal trade while boosting recorded gold supply and national reserves.
For long-term expansion, the sector must balance growth with environmental protection, adopt responsible practices, and expand local processing. Stable policies will be key to strengthening the country’s role as a critical mineral supplier and top investment hub in the region.
This highlights mining’s rising economic contribution, government efforts to formalize small-scale operations, and the sector’s potential to support both local livelihoods and global clean energy supply chains.
