Marcos woos Canadian investors as PH expands value-added mineral processing 

Chrislyne Faith Castillo

The Philippine government is banking on responsible mineral processing to create more jobs, attract foreign investments, and unlock greater value from the country’s mineral resources as it seeks to expand its role in the global mining industry.

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. presented the initiative to Canadian mining and natural resource executives during a business roundtable in Vancouver, inviting them to invest in the Philippines’ growing mineral sector.

Marcos encouraged Canadian firms to explore investment opportunities in the Philippines, emphasizing the country’s commitment to long-term and sustainable partnerships.

“The Philippines is certainly open for business, ready for partnerships, and committed to create long-term value through responsible resource development and sustainable growth,” President Marcos said.

Government officials said that expanding mineral processing facilities would allow more of the country’s mineral resources to be refined locally before being exported to foreign markets. 

Strengthening the Mining Industry

The government said the country’s abundant deposits of nickel, copper, gold, and other critical minerals place the Philippines in a strong position to support the growing global demand for clean energy technologies and advanced manufacturing.

Marcos assured investors that the Philippine’s economic expansion would remain anchored on responsible governance and sustainable resource development.

“As we continue to strengthen our economic ties, we look forward to working with Canadian partners in transforming opportunity into tangible investments, innovation, and shared progress,” he said.

The President emphasized the government’s commitment to building partnerships that benefit both investors and Filipino communities.

Long-Term Economic Vision

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina Roque said the administration continues to improve the country’s investment climate through policy reforms and responsible development.

“We remain firmly committed to responsible and sustainable resource development, guided by environmental stewardship, strong governance, and meaningful community engagement to ensure long-term mutual growth,” Roque said.

The government’s initiative reflects its broader goal of transforming the Philippines into a competitive mineral processing hub capable of driving sustainable industrial growth and creating lasting economic opportunities for Filipinos.

“The Philippine government, under the Marcos administration, continues to implement bold and targeted reforms to strengthen our investment climate,” she added. 

Investment Secured

The administration’s investment drive received a significant boost after Canadian mining firm OceanaGold Corp. committed USD 1.9 billion for the continued development of the Didipio Gold-Copper Mine, one of the country’s largest high-grade mining operations.

The planned investment is expected to support employment generation and economic activity while complementing the government’s efforts to expand responsible mineral development through environmentally sustainable mining practices in Nueva Vizcaya and Quirino.

The company is also evaluating an extension of the Didipio Mine’s operational life until 2037, reflecting sustained investor confidence in the Philippines’ long-term mining potential.