Nickel Asia, OceanaGold compete for ‘world-class’ titles in the first Asean awards

Two mining giants have been chosen as nominees in the upcoming first-ever Association of Southeast Asian Nations Minerals Awards, according to the Chamber of Mines of the Philippines, the main lobby group of miners operating in the country.

Nickel Asia Corp. (NAC)’s RioTuba Mines in Bataraza, Palawan and OceanaGold Philippines Inc.’s processing plant in Didipio, Nueva Vizcaya will vie as finalists in the Metallic Mines and Processing Plant categories, respectively, as per ASEAN’s guidelines in which each country has to nominate the best metallic and best nonmetallic mines.

Gerard H. Brimo, NAC CEO and chairman of the Chamber, said he is confident the two companies will bring home top awards as both the nominated firms have achieved global standards in the mining industry.

“This is the first time that ASEAN countries have come together to launch this kind of award. This is a big deal. This is ASEAN. We are going beyond our shores,” he said.

“Even if we landed second, it proves that we have the best mines in the world,” he added.

The Chamber will be in Myanmar this week for the final presentation. The winners will be announced Thursday.

Last week, government-led Philippine Mine Safety and Environment Association conducted the 64th Annual National Mine Safety and Environment Conference and the Presidential Mineral Industry Environmental Award.

SR Metals Inc. and Coral Bay Nickel Corp. were lauded with the prestigious presidential award, besting 20 other mining firms for its environmentally conscious and socially responsible efforts in mining and mineral-processing activities.