Ipilan Nickel Corporation (INC), the Palawan-based operating subsidiary of Global Ferronickel Holdings, Inc. (PSE: FNI), has disclosed that it has completed its first nickel ore shipment for the year bound for China.
The bulk carrier MV RU Cheng Shan departed from Ipilan’s anchorage area in Brooke’s Point, Palawan carrying 53,912 wet metric tons (WMT) of low-grade nickel ore with a nickel content of 1.30%, marking the official start of shipments for the calendar year.
With favorable weather and operating conditions, Ipilan is targeting at least 1.5 million WMT in total production for 2026. The company expects its sales mix to consist of 52.6% low-grade and 47.4% medium-grade nickel ore, aligned with market demand and customer specifications.
“The commencement of shipments reflects the strong operational readiness of Ipilan’s mine site and its continued ramp-up under a comprehensive mine development program for the year,” the company said in a statement released today.
Planned activities for the year include the expansion of mining areas, construction of additional haul roads, and installation of key environmental protection structures to support production targets while maintaining regulatory compliance.
Ipilan operates under a Mineral Production Sharing Agreement (MPSA) with the Philippine government, covering 2,835 hectares in the Municipality of Brooke’s Point, Palawan.
The start of Ipilan’s 2026 operations supports Global Ferronickel’s broader growth strategy, which the company said is focused on disciplined mine development, responsible mining practices, and long-term value creation for shareholders. The company also reiterated its commitment to coordination with national and local government agencies and host communities to ensure mining activities contribute to employment generation and sustainable community development.
Global Ferronickel Holdings is a holding firm whose principal subsidiary, Platinum Group Metals Corporation, is the Philippines’ second-largest nickel ore producer, with mining operations in Surigao del Norte and Palawan. The group is also pursuing diversification into value-added nickel processing, cement manufacturing, and port and logistics operations.
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