500 delegates expected at 3-day mining meet

500 delegates expected at 3-day mining meet
Malaya Business Insight
September 13, 2011

At least 500 local and international delegates are expected to attend the three-day "Mining Philippines 2011 Conference and Exhibition" on Sept. 13 to 15 at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Hotel in Pasay City.

The mining industry meets at a time of bullish market for metals even as it addresses concerns and a number of issues affecting its growth. The mining sector is expected to sustain its growth in the next decade with the support of the government.

Hosted by the Chamber of Mines of the Philippines, the conference has lined up speakers to discuss current and global mining opportunities and prospects, industry issues and concerns and how these are being addressed by policymakers, government regulatory bodies and the mining industry.

One of the speakers is Chilean Ambassador Roberto Mayorga, who will discuss "Mining – A Vital Partner for National Progress: The Chilean Experience."

Chile in October last year was the scene of a daring rescue of 33 miners trapped for 69 days in a collapsed mine, a feat that was greeted with worldwide jubilation.

Benjamin Philip Romualdez, president of the Chamber of Mines and president and CEO of Benguet Corp., will deliver the welcome remarks at the formal opening of the conference on Sept. 14.

The keynote address will be delivered by Executive Secretary Paquino Ochoa Jr. on behalf of President Aquino.

During the conference, the region’s top mining companies and suppliers will also participate at the exhibition to showcase their latest projects, advocacies, products and services.

Environment Secretary Ramon Paje Jr. will open the exhibition on September 13.

Education Secretary Armin Luistro will sign a memorandum of areement on "Adopt and School Program" with the Chamber of Mines on September 14.

Among the speakers in the plenary session, "Addressing Mining Issues," will be Jose Ma. Lorenzo Tan, vice-chairman and CEO of the World Wildlife Fund Philippines, who will talk about integrating biodiversity in the mining life cycle, and Rafael C. Lopa, executive director of Philippine Business for Social Progress, who will be presenting Meeting Society’s Social Environmental Expectations: A Score Card.

Other plenary sessions will tackle such topics as industry policy reforms, mineral commodities outlook, exploration as lifeblood of mining, the mining landscape in the Philippines and Southeast Asia, and the prospects in copper, gold and nickel mining.