Canada envoy backs PH economy in visit to Masbate mining project

Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines David Hartman has expressed the country's commitment to helping the Philippines' economic growth and empowering communities in the country.

Hartman made the remark after visiting mining and milling operations at the Masbate Gold Project site in Aroroy, Masbate.

The visit included a tour of the environmental and social programs being implemented by the two companies at the project, including a mangrove site.

“Canada remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering these partnerships, driving economic growth, and empowering communities in Masbate and across the Philippines," Hartman said.

 Filminera Resources Corporation (Filminera) and  Phil Gold Processing & Refining Corp. (PhilGold), are the two firms operating inside the Masbate Gold Project site.  

Canada-based B2Gold has a minority interest in Filminera, which holds mining permits and surface rights, plus an environmental compliance certificate (ECC) in the Aroroy mine site.

Phil Gold, which runs the gold processing plant, is wholly owned by the same Canadian firm.

The mangrove reforestation project is undertaken by Filminera and Phil Gold along the coastal barangays of Aroroy, Masbate. 

There are 3.22 million mangrove seedlings planted with 90% survival rate within 2,658 hectares of coastal areas surrounding the mine site.

Ambassador Hartman cited the value of “sustainable partnerships in the extractive industries,” geared, not only for economic prosperity, but for “ensuring responsible stewardship of resources for the benefit of present and future generations.” —NB, GMA Integrated News