Nickel miners pour in P4.3 billion for SDG programs

MANILA, Philippines — Nickel miners invested over P4 billion last year to contribute to the country’s attainment of sustainable development goals (SDGs), particularly on reducing poverty and promoting good health and well-being in their concerned communities.

The Philippine Nickel Industry Association (PNIA) poured at least P4.3 billion last year, focused on uplifting local communities through job creation, scholarships and enhancing public infrastructure across seven provinces where the mine sites of its members are present.

The investments were made across different host and neighboring cities and municipalities in the provinces of Zambales, Palawan, Surigao del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Dinagat Islands and Tawi-Tawi.

The various investments were channeled through different programs of the miners, including those mandated by the government such as the Social Development and Management Programs (SDMP) and Environmental Protection and Enhancement Programs (EPEP).

PNIA said the programs and projects by its members supported 15 out of 17 SDGs with a focus on life on land (SDG 15), no poverty (SDG 1) and good health and well-being (SDG 3).

“Each year, we strive to align with sustainability, stewardship and resilience principles to mitigate environmental impacts, alleviate poverty and improve health outcomes for communities near mining operations,” PNIA president Dante Bravo said.

“These goals are essential for the sustainability of both the environment and the communities we serve,” Bravo added.

Under SDG 15, PNIA members planted over 4.3 million trees of 76 different species across almost 9,500 hectares of land last year. To date, the group said it has planted nearly 18 million trees.

“Additionally, PNIA members have engaged in other initiatives, such as coastal cleanups and river system adoption,” it added.

PNIA said its members provided scholarships and improved classroom infrastructure, benefiting over a thousand of students across elementary, secondary and tertiary levels of education as part of its contributions to SDG 1.

The group also conducted medical missions and feeding programs to address basic health needs while upgrading local hospitals to improve healthcare access in various communities.

“Investing P4.3 billion in 2023 strengthens local economies and aligns with government directives on the role of mining in promoting national economic development and local community resilience, contributing to improved lives and the building of resilient communities, particularly in remote areas where economic opportunities are limited,” Bravo said.