Philippines-Sweden Smart Mining Forum highlights innovation and sustainability in minerals development
At the Philippines-Sweden Smart Mining Forum held on 18 November 2025 in Baguio City, Secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Raphael P.M. Lotilla underscored that innovation and sustainability must drive the future of the mining industry.
The forum was one of the highlights of the 71st Annual National Mine Safety and Environment Conference (ANMSEC) organized by the Philippine Mine Safety and Environment Association (PMSEA) which ran from 18-21 November 2025.
In his keynote address, Secretary Lotilla stated, “We recognize that the future of mining must be innovation-led and sustainability-anchored. We cannot speak of resource development without also speaking of climate change, equity, resilience, and governance. Technology, when applied wisely, is key to achieving this balance.”
Through the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), the DENR is advancing reforms to modernize governance in the Philippines’ minerals sector. Among these are Department Administrative Order (DAO) 2025-17 which streamlines permitting processes and DAO 2025-10 which aligns the Social Development and Management Programs (SDMP) of mining companies with the Sustainable Development Goals.
“We are also advancing the development of a national geospatial database for resource mapping and expanding the use of automation and remote sensing technologies to enhance transparency and compliance,” Secretary Lotilla said.
He cited Sweden’s Kiruna iron ore operations as a model for responsible, technologically advanced mining. “Kiruna showcases how digitalization, electrification, and automation can be integrated into minerals development to deliver both efficiency and environmental responsibility.
We also look forward to exploring collaboration with Swedish institutions such as Luleå University of Technology to further deepen our science-based approach and technical capabilities.”
The DENR recognized the timeliness of the forum in light of the global shift towards a low-carbon economy. “The demand for critical minerals, those essential to renewable energy, battery technologies, and green infrastructure, is reshaping the global minerals landscape. For resource-rich countries like the Philippines, this presents both a responsibility and an opportunity… Responsible minerals development today is not simply a matter of compliance; it is a matter of foresight.”
