IN the rugged terrain of Northern Luzon, OceanaGold (Philippines) Inc. (OGP) operates the underground Didipio Mine in Kasibu, Nueva Vizcaya, an area known for its gold and copper deposits. The company has been producing precious metals at this site for several years and has been active in the Philippines since 1994. Over the decades, it has built infrastructure and employed workers from nearby towns and provinces.
OGP states that its vision, which is “mining gold for a better future,” extends beyond resource extraction to creating value for host and neighboring communities, with development that is inclusive and environmentally sound. Its president, Joan Adaci-Cattiling, said, “Our goal is to mine responsibly while safeguarding the environment for future generations. We understand that with resource extraction comes a responsibility to protect, rehabilitate and sustain the natural surroundings.”
The company says its operations adhere to global mining standards and follow international guidelines on environmental management, safety and community relations.
OGP’s environmental strategy includes measures to minimize ecological disruption. The company conducts environmental impact assessments before starting new projects. “By employing modern underground mining techniques, the company reduces surface disturbance, preserving local biodiversity and limiting erosion,” Cattiling said, explaining that underground mining is used instead of open-pit methods to lessen the impact on the terrain. “This approach helps maintain habitats for plants and animals in the area.”
Water management is another key focus. OGP operates a water treatment plant at the mine site, acquired and installed for about P268 million, to process water before it is released into natural waterways. Cattiling said the goal is to meet government environmental standards, protecting nearby rivers and streams that are vital to agricultural communities downstream. Farmers in surrounding barangay rely on these water sources for irrigation and domestic use.
Air quality monitoring and dust control are also part of OGP’s operations. Cattiling said these measures prevent harm to workers, residents and ecosystems. Dust suppression techniques, such as water spraying on roads and stockpiles, are used to reduce airborne particles.
The company implements a rehabilitation program for areas affected by mining. Cattiling said disturbed areas are systematically restored through revegetation, soil stabilization and habitat reconstruction. “After mining activities cease in a section, workers begin planting vegetation. Native tree species are used to restore forest cover,” she said, adding that these trees support wildlife and help prevent soil erosion. OGP collaborates with local communities to identify suitable species. Its rehabilitation efforts contribute to carbon sequestration, as trees and plants absorb carbon dioxide.
Rehabilitation
“OGP’s rehabilitation program is designed with community input, ensuring that restored lands can eventually support agriculture, agroforestry or other productive uses beneficial to residents,” Cattiling said, adding that community members are consulted on how rehabilitated land should be used. Some areas may be turned into farms, while others may remain as forests.
OGP engages with host and neighboring communities as part of its environmental program. It holds regular meetings with barangay officials and residents to provide updates on mining operations and environmental activities. The company supports environmental education in schools and organizes tree-planting activities with students and teachers. “By working hand in hand with communities, we build trust and ensure that our environmental efforts are meaningful and lasting,” Cattiling said. OGP also supports sustainable livelihood projects, including training for farming, livestock raising and small business development, to help diversify income sources for residents.
The company has received accolades for its sustainable practices and been recognized by industry associations and government agencies for environmental management and safety. “However, the company views these recognitions not as endpoints but as milestones in an ongoing journey,” Cattiling said. She added that OGP remains committed to continuous improvement, investing in new technologies and practices that further reduce environmental impact and enhance rehabilitation outcomes. OGP regularly reviews its operations to identify areas for improvement and adopts new technologies when feasible, aiming to enhance efficiency and minimize environmental impact.
“OGP is shaping a model of mining that benefits people, protects nature and contributes to a sustainable future. Through its purpose-driven approach, OGP continues to be a company people trust, want to work and partner with, supply and invest in — creating value not just for shareholders, but for communities and the environment alike,” Cattiling said. She added that the company will continue to report on its environmental and social performance to stakeholders.