• NAC expands from mining to a broader natural-resources grou
• People-first culture anchors its ESG integration
• CEO Martin Antonio G. Zamora cited for leadership impact
• NAC Foundation ramps up health and education initiatives
Nickel Asia Corp. (NAC) is sharpening its long-term growth agenda around a simple but ambitious premise: building a business that scales by investing in people, communities, and national development.
The approach—now a defining element of the company’s culture—was thrust into the regional spotlight as President and CEO Martin Antonio G. Zamora was named one of Asia’s Outstanding Leaders at this year’s ACES Awards, honored for his people-first leadership.
The Asia Corporate Excellence and Sustainability (ACES) Awards recognize outstanding companies and leaders across Asia for exemplary leadership, sustainable business practices, and positive social impact.
Why it matters
Zamora’s leadership philosophy has become the operating backbone of NAC, shaping everything from its workplace policies to its community and sustainability programs. The company’s refreshed core values—People First, Integrity, and Excellence—translate that philosophy into daily action.
What he’s saying
Speaking at the ACES Summit in Bali, Zamora underscored how people-centricity guided NAC as it formally embedded environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles across its operations.
“Sustainability is not a system or a slogan, but leadership in action. Sustainability should put people first, and especially during this difficult time in my country, People First refers to all Filipinos,” he said.
Under Zamora’s tenure, the NAC Group has diversified from a mining company into a broader natural-resources development group. It now runs six mines, is accelerating the expansion of its clean energy arm, and is evaluating opportunities for regional investments.
Big picture
A major pillar of that vision is the NAC Foundation, which Zamora established to advance education and health outcomes nationwide.
Among its flagship efforts is a P50-million donation to the National Institutes of Health for the unique design plan of its upcoming 19-level building. Once completed, it will be the Philippines’ first high-rise research laboratory facility.
Zamora said these initiatives are part of a broader commitment to nation-building.
“Our mission, and my personal mission, go beyond serving our employees and communities. We aim to be a proactive force for nation-building. We are embarking on a major effort to inspire the youth to reimagine a different kind of Philippines—one that does not involve leaving the country,” he said.
This is the second consecutive year NAC has been recognized at the ACES Awards. In 2023, the company earned the Inspiring Workplace citation following a rigorous nomination, documentation review, and committee vote.
—Edited by Miguel R. Camus
