By Franco Jose C. Baroña | The Manila Times | July 15, 2026

(Photo: Philippine Mining Development Corp. FB page)

THE Philippine Mining Development Corp. (PMDC), the government’s mining arm, has adopted the Mines and Geosciences Bureau’s (MGB) “Big Brother–Small Brother” initiative, a program that seeks to formalize small-scale mining through partnerships between large-scale mining companies and small-scale miners.

PMDC President and Chief Executive Officer Job Adrian Ambrosio said the state-run mining firm is supporting the initiative to help bring small-scale mining operations into the formal sector while promoting safer mining practices, environmental compliance and inclusive economic growth.

Under the framework, established mining companies will provide technical and operational support to small-scale miners to help them transition into legal and properly regulated operations. The assistance may include mine planning, safety systems, environmental management, mineral processing, regulatory compliance and access to legitimate markets.

Ambrosio said the initiative aims to show that responsible mining can generate sustainable livelihoods while improving worker safety, environmental protection and the welfare of mining communities.

He noted that a large portion of the country’s small-scale mining sector continues to operate outside the regulatory system, exposing miners to hazardous working conditions, and increasing the risk of accidents and fatalities.

Illegal and unregulated mining has also been linked to the improper use of mercury and cyanide, inadequate waste management and poor mine planning, resulting in pollution, landslides and other forms of environmental degradation.

Ambrosio said enforcement efforts should be complemented by practical alternatives that encourage small-scale miners to enter the formal economy.

Source: The Manila Times

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