The expansion underscores the company's commitment to strengthening its position in the global nickel market.
Its Zambales Chromite Mining Co. (ZCMC), situated in Santa Cruz, Zambales, commenced operations in December 2024. The mine is expected to achieve full operational capacity by the first quarter of 2025.
Under its Environmental Compliance Certificate, ZCMC is permitted an annual production limit of one million wet metric tons (WMT).
Meanwhile, the Berong Nickel Corp. (BNC) in Palawan is preparing to restart production through its Long Point mine in Aborlan. The mine is in the final stages of securing its Mineral Production Sharing Agreement (MPSA).
Investments and production targets
“Our two new mines, ZCMC and BNC’s Long Point, mark a long-anticipated step forward for DMCI Mining. With increased production capacity and the Long Point port nearing completion, we are confident in delivering improved operational and financial performance this year,” said DMCI Mining president Tulsi Das C. Reyes.
In 2024, DMCI Mining allocated P634 million for capital expenditures and plans to invest an additional P400 million in 2025 to support the expansion.
The company is targeting a combined annual production capacity of three million WMT across its three mines, including the Zambales Diversified Metals Corporation (ZDMC), pending regulatory approvals for Long Point.
Looking Ahead
DMCI Mining has also been active in rehabilitation efforts. The BNC mine in Quezon, Palawan, which was fully depleted in 2021, has been undergoing rehabilitation since 2022. The company remains on track to complete the six-year program by 2027, reflecting its commitment to sustainable and responsible mining practices.
The addition of ZCMC and BNC’s Long Point mine positions DMCI Mining for significant growth in production and financial performance, reinforcing its role in supporting the global demand for nickel. --Ed: CSN
