Marcos signs order to develop Philippines critical minerals industry

MANILA — President Marcos has signed an executive order that lays the groundwork for establishing a critical minerals industry in the Philippines, marking a significant shift in the country's mining policy.

The order, designated Executive Order No. 122, directs government agencies to pursue the privatization of publicly held critical mineral assets and immediately cancel dormant mining permits. The move represents a comprehensive restructuring of how the nation manages its mineral resources, particularly those deemed critical for national and global supply chains.

Critical minerals—elements essential for manufacturing electronics, renewable energy systems, and defense equipment—have become strategically important amid global competition for supply sources. The Philippines possesses substantial reserves of several critical minerals, positioning it as a potentially significant player in international markets.

The executive order signals the administration's intention to accelerate the commercialization of the country's mineral wealth while weeding out inactive operations. By revoking dormant permits and opening assets to private sector participation, the framework aims to create a more dynamic and productive critical minerals sector.

The directive is expected to generate considerable interest from domestic and international mining companies seeking to develop mineral projects in the Philippines. Implementation of the order will require coordination among relevant government departments to establish operational guidelines and conduct asset assessments.