Mines and Geosciences Bureau Mimaropa Region

MGB Conducts IEC Campaign and Turns Over Environmental Management Plan for Abandoned Mine Site in Balabac

Balabac, Palawan - The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Central Office, together with the MGB MIMAROPA Region and the Municipal Government of Balabac, in partnership with Coral Bay Nickel Corporation (CBNC) and Rio Tuba Nickel Mining Corporation (RTNMC) successfully conducted an Information, Education and Communication (IEC) Campaign and Turnover Ceremony for the Environmental Management Plan of the abandoned Benguet Consolidated, Inc. (BCI) mine site on 26 May 2026 at the Balabac Municipal Conference Hall.

The activity aimed to strengthen public awareness on responsible mining, environmental stewardship, and mine rehabilitation while formally turning over the Environmental Management Plan that will guide the rehabilitation and management of the abandoned BCI mine site in Balabac.

In his welcome remarks, Balabac Mayor Hon. Shuaib J. Astami thanked the MGB for conducting the IEC activity in the municipality. He emphasized that the event highlighted the positive contributions of mining to local development, particularly in creating employment opportunities and generating economic activities that benefit communities and gain a broader perspective on the mining industry.

Representing MGB MIMAROPA Regional Director Engr. Felizardo A. Gacad, Jr. is the Mine Safety, Environment and Social Development Division Chief Engr. Alvin S. Requimin. He underscored the Bureau's commitment to balancing mineral development with environmental protection and social responsibility.

Engr. Requimin emphasized that responsible resource management requires collaboration among government agencies, local government units, industry stakeholders, and communities. He also stressed the importance of rehabilitation efforts for abandoned mine sites to ensure that environmental concerns are addressed and that affected areas are restored for the benefit of future generations.

A major highlight of the program was the presentation of the Environmental Management Plan for the abandoned BCI mine site by Mr. Teodorico L. Marquez, Jr., Chief of the Mine Rehabilitation Section of the MGB Central Office.

Mr. Marquez discussed the objectives and key components of the Environmental Management Plan, which serves as the framework for the rehabilitation and long-term management of the abandoned mining area. He explained that the plan outlines interventions aimed at restoring environmental integrity, stabilizing affected areas, mitigating potential environmental risks, and promoting the recovery of local ecosystems.

Following the presentation of the Environmental Management Plan, Ms. Gemma A. Bastian of MGB MIMAROPA conducted the IEC on mining and community development. She discussed the benefits that responsible mining brings to host and neighboring communities. She highlighted the implementation of Social Development and Management Programs (SDMPs), through which mining companies provide support for education, healthcare services, livelihood projects, infrastructure development, environmental initiatives, and capacity-building activities. She explained that responsible mining contributes not only to economic growth but also to the overall development of communities through programs that directly address local needs.

The activity concluded with the formal turnover of the Environmental Management Plan to the Municipal Government of Balabac, signifying a shared commitment between the national government and local stakeholders.

Through initiatives such as the IEC Campaign and Environmental Management Plan Turnover Ceremony, MGB continues to promote informed communities, responsible mineral development, and environmental stewardship, ensuring that the country's mineral resources are managed in a manner that benefits both present and future generations.

MIMAROPA

𝚁𝙳 𝙶𝚊𝚌𝚊𝚍 𝙸𝚗𝚜𝚙𝚒𝚛𝚎𝚜 𝚁𝚃𝙽 𝙼𝚒𝚕𝚎𝚜𝚝𝚘𝚗𝚎 𝙲𝚎𝚕𝚎𝚋𝚛𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝙼𝚎𝚜𝚜𝚊𝚐𝚎 𝚘𝚗 𝙿𝚞𝚛𝚙𝚘𝚜𝚎 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚂𝚎𝚛𝚟𝚒𝚌𝚎

Bataraza, Palawan - Rio Tuba Nickel Mining Corporation (RTN) marked another milestone after being recognized by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) as a TESDA - registered Enterprise-Based Education and Training (EBET) Hub during an awarding ceremony held on 14 May 2026 at the RTN Safety and Skills Training Center in Barangay Rio Tuba, Bataraza, Palawan.

The event gathered industry leaders, company officials, and employees to celebrate RTN’s continued commitment to skills development, workforce empowerment, and responsible mining practices in Palawan.

Invited as guest speaker during the event was Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) MIMAROPA Regional Director Engr. Felizardo A. Gacad, Jr., CESO V, whose inspiring message emphasized the importance of growth, humility, and purpose in every organization.

In his speech, RD Gacad shared that trees grow in two ways - through their roots beneath the ground and through their branches, leaves, and flowers above. He explained that while people often notice the visible growth of a tree, its strength and stability come from the unseen roots’ underneath.

He compared this to organizations, where success is not only built by leaders and visible accomplishments, but also by the people working quietly behind the scenes who serve as the foundation of every achievement.

RD Gacad also recounted the story of renowned evangelist Billy Graham, who once attended a preaching event where an usher guided him into the room. While Billy Graham became widely known and admired, the true hero of the story was the usher who opened the door and led him inside.

Using the story as a powerful reflection, RD Gacad underscored that no position is too small to create meaningful impact.

“No matter how small your role may seem in an organization, you can make a difference. Sometimes, the people behind the scenes are the ones who make success possible,” RD Gacad emphasized.

The RD further commended RTN for its dedication to developing competent and skilled workers through industry-based training initiatives, noting that programs such as the EBET Hub contribute significantly to nation-building and community development.

RTN officials expressed their gratitude to TESDA, MGB MIMAROPA, and their stakeholders for the continued support and recognition given to the company’s training and development initiatives.

The recognition highlighted RTN’s compliance with TESDA standards and reinforced its commitment to providing quality education and technical skills training opportunities for its workforce and partner communities.

MIMAROPA

Growing from Within: MGB Engineer Earns Promotion

MAKATI CITY - The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) MIMAROPA Region celebrated the promotion of Ms. Keith A. Belmonte-Pilapil to Engineer IV under the Mine Management Division during a formal oath-taking ceremony held on May 11, 2026, at the Basic Petroleum Building in Makati City.

MGB MIMAROPA Regional Director Engr. Felizardo A. Gacad, Jr., CESO V, administered the oath of office and congratulated the newly promoted engineer.

In his message, RD Gacad emphasized the value of professional growth within the organization, comparing it to the growth of a tree. "The roots grow deep beneath the ground to serve as a strong foundation, while the branches, leaves, and flowers flourish outwardly as visible signs of progress and success," he said, stressing that genuine growth stems from strong values, dedication, and commitment to public service.

Ms. Belmonte-Pilapil's promotion recognizes her hard work, competence, and significant contributions to the Bureau's mission of promoting responsible mining and delivering effective public service in the MIMAROPA Region.

MGB MIMAROPA extends its warmest congratulations to Ms. Belmonte-Pilapil and wishes her continued success in her career.

MIMAROPA

📢 𝐖𝐄 𝐀𝐑𝐄 𝐇𝐈𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐆!

The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) MIMAROPA Region is looking for passionate and dedicated professionals to join our team as 𝐄𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐝𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐌𝐆𝐁 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 under Contract of Service for CENRO/PENRO offices.

🔹 Open Positions:
• Science Research Specialist I
• Science Research Specialist II

📌 Preferably: Mining Engineer and/or Geologist

Be part of MGB MIMAROPA! 🌏⛏️

📄 Interested applicants are encouraged to submit the required documents on or before 𝟏𝟖 𝐌𝐚𝐲 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔.

📍 Send your application to:
𝐄𝐧𝐠𝐫. 𝐅𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐳𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐨 𝐀. 𝐆𝐚𝐜𝐚𝐝, 𝐉𝐫., 𝐂𝐄𝐒𝐎 𝐕
Regional Director, MGB MIMAROPA

📧 [email protected]

Growth from Within: MGB MIMAROPA Holds Oath-Taking for Promoted Employees

MAKATI CITY - The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) MIMAROPA Region proudly celebrated the appointment and promotion of four dedicated personnel during a formal oath-taking ceremony held on 4 May 2026, at the Basic Petroleum Building in Makati City.

The ceremony was led by MGB MIMAROPA Regional Director (RD) Felizardo A. Gacad, Jr., CESO V, who personally administered the oaths of office and conveyed his heartfelt congratulations to the newly promoted employees.

Recognized during the ceremony were Ms. Lara Mae P. Detera and Mr. Lister C. Sianen, who were appointed as Engineers II under the Mine Management Division; Mr. Joseph William V. Villas, who was promoted to Supervising Geologist; and Ms. Yolanda M. Tolentino, who assumed the position of Administrative Officer IV (Budget Officer) under the Finance and Administrative Division.

The appointment and promotions reflect the employees’ exemplary service, dedication, and valuable contributions in advancing the Bureau’s mandate of responsible mining and geoscientific development in the MIMAROPA Region. Their consistent professionalism, competence, and commitment to public service have earned them the trust and recognition of the organization.

In his message, RD Gacad emphasized the significance of internal growth within the organization, expressing his appreciation for seeing employees rise through the ranks through hard work and perseverance.

“It is inspiring to see promotions coming from within the organization - just like an egg cracking from the inside. Growth that begins from within is a sign of strength, dedication, and true development,” RD Gacad shared.

He further encouraged the newly appointed and promoted personnel to continue serving with integrity, excellence, and commitment as they take on greater responsibilities in the Bureau.

The event highlighted MGB MIMAROPA’s continued commitment to fostering a culture of merit, professional growth, and organizational excellence. The Bureau recognizes that its workforce remains at the core of its mission to promote sustainable mineral development, responsible resource management, and environmental stewardship across the region.

MGB MIMAROPA extends its warmest congratulations to the newly promoted personnel and wishes them continued success in their respective careers.

MIMAROPA

MGB MIMAROPA

𝐌𝐆𝐁 𝐌𝐈𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐎𝐏𝐀 𝐚𝐝𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐏𝐖𝐑𝐂𝐂 𝐫𝐞𝐡𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞

The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) MIMAROPA Region has formalised a multi-stakeholder push to rehabilitate the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center - Crocodile Farm (PWRCC) under its flagship Project Connect, bringing together firms including Berong Nickel Corporation , Coral Bay Nickel Corporation, Citinickel Mines and Development Corporation , Graymont Philippines Inc. , Ipilan Nickel Corporation , and Rio Tuba Nickel Mining Corporation ; officials led by Felizardo A. Gacad Jr. said the initiative highlights collaborative, beyond-compliance efforts to strengthen wildlife conservation, environmental education and sustainable development across the region. Link in comments for full story.

📢 CLIENT ADVISORY 📢

In view of the upcoming Labor Day celebration on May 1, 2026 (Friday), please be informed that the compressed workweek arrangement of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) MIMAROPA Region will be temporarily suspended from April 27 to 30, 2026 (Monday to Thursday).

During this period, the Office shall observe the regular office schedule from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Clients and stakeholders are advised to plan their visits and transactions accordingly.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support.

MIMAROPA Mineral Profile 2025 is out! 🔍✨

Discover the latest on the region’s mining industry - where responsible resource management drives sustainable development. From key mineral statistics to impactful initiatives, see how MGB MIMAROPA and its stakeholders continue to create meaningful progress for communities, the environment, and the economy.

📊 Curious about the numbers behind the story?

Click the link below and explore the full Mineral Profile!
https://region4b.mgb.gov.ph/mineral-industry/mineral-statistics?id=572

MIMAROPA

𝙼𝙶𝙱 𝙼𝙸𝙼𝙰𝚁𝙾𝙿𝙰 𝙰𝚍𝚟𝚊𝚗𝚌𝚎𝚜 𝙿𝚛𝚘𝚓𝚎𝚌𝚝 𝙲𝚘𝚗𝚗𝚎𝚌𝚝 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝙿𝚆𝚁𝙲𝙲 𝚁𝚎𝚑𝚊𝚋𝚒𝚕𝚒𝚝𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗 𝙸𝚗𝚒𝚝𝚒𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚟𝚎

MAKATI CITY – April 22, 2026 - The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) MIMAROPA Region successfully convened key stakeholders for the Signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the rehabilitation of the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center (PWRCC), marking another significant milestone under its flagship initiative, “Magbigay Gaan sa Buhay – Project Connect (MGB – PC).”

Held in Makati City, the event brought together operating mining companies in the region, namely: Berong Nickel Corporation, Coral Bay Nickel Corporation, Citinickel Mines and Development Corporation, Graymont (Philippines), Inc., Ipilan Nickel Corporation, and Rio Tuba Nickel Mining Corporation demonstrating strong industry support for collaborative environmental initiatives.

The MOU formalized the commitment of participating stakeholders to support the rehabilitation and enhancement of the PWRCC, a vital facility dedicated to wildlife protection, conservation, and environmental education in Palawan.

Anchored on MGB - Project Connect, the initiative reflects the Bureau’s continued efforts to go beyond its regulatory mandate by fostering partnerships that deliver tangible and lasting benefits to communities and the environment. Among its earlier milestones was the successful publication of the coffee table book, “Minerals to Milestones,” which highlighted the shared journey and best practices of stakeholders in advancing responsible minerals development in Palawan.

In his message, MGB MIMAROPA Regional Director Engr. Felizardo A. Gacad, Jr., CESO V underscored the importance of unity and collaboration in achieving sustainable development goals, reiterating that meaningful progress is best achieved through collective action.

Meanwhile, Judge Benjamin D. Turgano (Ret.), President of the Natural Resources Development Corporation, emphasized the significance of “convergence with purpose,” highlighting that when institutions, industries, and stakeholders come together with a shared vision, they create stronger, more impactful, and sustainable outcomes for both communities and the environment.

The event featured a presentation of the proposed rehabilitation initiatives for the PWRCC, outlining key components such as facility improvement, access development, and environmental enhancement measures aimed at strengthening the Center’s capacity for wildlife care and conservation.

The successful signing of the MOU stands as a testament to the strong partnership between government and the mining industry, reinforcing a shared commitment to responsible resource development and environmental stewardship.

As MGB MIMAROPA continues to advance Project Connect, this milestone signals a strengthened direction toward collaborative, inclusive, and sustainable initiatives that create meaningful impact across the region.


MIMAROPA