BY LEANDER C. DOMINGO
QUEZON, Nueva Vizcaya—FCF Minerals Corporation, a leading mining company in the Philippines, has been shortlisted for the prestigious Best Practices in Mineral Processing (Metallic Category) at the 4th ASEAN Minerals Awards (AMA).
Engineer Mario Ancheta, Mines and Geosciences Bureau Region 2 Director, said this recognition underscores the company’s commitment to “responsible, efficient and innovative operations that align with regional sustainability standards.”
Citing the AMA as an esteemed initiative by the ASEAN mining ministers to recognize best practices and exemplary models in sustainable mineral mining, processing and distribution among its member countries, Ancheta said FCF Minerals Corporation’s shortlisting highlights its contributions to the industry and the Philippines’ drive for responsible mineral development.
He said the FCF Minerals Corporation’s strong operational performance, safety culture, environmental stewardship, community engagement, and continuous improvement in metallic mineral processing have earned it a spot among the top contenders for the award.
“The company’s dedication to responsible mining practices is evident in its pioneering use of eco-friendly technologies, such as the BIOX and ASTER processes, which minimize environmental impact while maximizing gold recovery,” Ancheta said.
As part of the evaluation process, FCF Minerals Corporation will attend and present before the 4th AMA Board of Judges in Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR, from September 29 to October 3, 2025. This presentation will showcase the company’s best practices and commitment to sustainable mineral development.
The 4th AMA will recognize companies that have demonstrated significant contributions to sustainable development in the sector, ranging from community upliftment and workforce development to improved resource efficiency and enhanced environmental, health, and safety standards.
The AMA will also serve as a platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration among industry stakeholders, promoting best practices and innovative solutions for sustainable mineral development in the ASEAN region.
With these, Ancheta said FCF Minerals Corporation’s shortlisting is a testament to its commitment to sustainable practices and community partnerships and as the mining industry continues to evolve, the company remains at the forefront, driving progress and sustainability in the sector.
Meanwhile, Lorne Harvey, FCF Minerals Corp. general manager for operations, mentioned some of the company’s proven track record of excellence in the mining industry.
Harvey said that in 2023, the company received two ASEAN mineral awards in Cambodia, “recognizing our outstanding best practices in sustainable mineral development.” The company was named 1st runner-up in the Mineral Mining (Metallic) category and 2nd runner-up in the Mineral Processing (Metallic) category.
“The company’s commitment to environmental sustainability, health, and safety is unwavering. It has consistently demonstrated that mining can be both a driver of prosperity and a responsible stewardship of the environment,” he said.
“In its Runruno site in this town, the company achieved 23 million safe man-hours without a lost-time incident, a milestone that underscores its dedication to safety,” Harvey added. LEANDER C. DOMINGO