The agreement was signed by Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla and US Undersecretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg, the DENR said in the statement.
Why it matters
The partnership aims to shift the Philippines away from exporting raw mineral ores and toward domestic processing and value addition, allowing the country to capture more economic benefits and integrate more deeply into global supply chains.
Policy shift underway
Under the MOU, the Philippines and the US will cooperate to advance policies that support downstream mineral processing, workforce development, and supply chain resilience.
“Through this partnership, we are building a Filipino-led industry that processes our own resources, creates high-skilled jobs, and strengthens our position in the global high-tech supply chain,” Lotilla said.
Strategic materials focus
Critical minerals and rare earth elements are essential inputs for electric vehicles, renewable energy technologies, electronics, and advanced manufacturing, sectors expected to see rapid global growth in the coming years.
Securing stable and diversified supplies of these materials has become a strategic priority for many countries.
Global context grows
The Philippines joins a growing list of countries that have entered into similar agreements with the United States, including Australia, Canada, Japan, South Korea, and the United Kingdom, as well as Malaysia and Thailand within the ASEAN region.
These partnerships reflect broader international efforts to reduce supply chain risks and strengthen cooperation in clean energy and high-technology industries.
Economic positioning strengthened
Lotilla said advancing domestic processing is key to building a more resilient and innovation-driven economy.
“By advancing critical minerals processing at home, the Philippines takes a significant step toward securing its place in the future of global industry,” he said.
Responsible mining pledge
The DENR chief emphasized that the initiative forms part of the government’s broader commitment to responsible mining, including strict environmental standards and safeguards for local communities.
The government aims to balance industrial development with environmental protection and social responsibility, he added.
International signing
The MOU was signed on Feb. 4, 2026, on the sidelines of the 2026 Critical Minerals Ministerial hosted by the US Department of State in Washington, D.C.
The event brought together ministers and senior officials from 54 countries, as well as representatives from the European Commission, highlighting the growing global focus on critical minerals cooperation. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
