DTI, DENR leverage PH–US MOU for minerals

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) will leverage a newly signed Philippines–United States Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to accelerate investments in critical minerals processing and reposition the country in global supply chains.

DTI Secretary Cristina Roque said the agreement, signed in Washington, D.C., signals a transformative partnership aimed at strengthening the Philippines’ critical minerals sector through a unified “whole-of-government” approach.

Roque said the strategy seeks to move the Philippines from being primarily a raw ore exporter to becoming a high-value processing hub with stronger downstream manufacturing capabilities.

Despite being a global leader in nickel production, the Philippines has historically relied on a limited export model, with most minerals shipped abroad unprocessed.

This structure, government officials said, has resulted in missed industrial growth opportunities and a heavy reliance on a single market for mineral exports.

“The MOU is a major enabler for the Philippines to shift from simply exporting raw mineral ores to becoming a significant player in value-added processing,” said Roque.

“We are aiming more than just being a supplier; we are positioning ourselves as a vital link in the global supply chains for semiconductors, defense, and clean energy,” she added.

The MOU was signed on the sidelines of the inaugural Critical Minerals Ministerial Meeting hosted by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Under the agreement, the government will use the Board of Investments to support mineral processing, refining, and downstream manufacturing projects as part of its investment promotion strategy.

Officials said the framework is also expected to attract diverse investments not only in mining, but in related sectors such as power generation, logistics, and chemical handling.

In terms of technical and financial support, the MOU will provide access to U.S. grants, feasibility studies, and joint geological mapping initiatives to modernize the local mining landscape.

The agreement is also designed to reduce over-reliance on a single buyer by linking Philippine mineral exports to a broader network of over 50 allied nations.

Government officials said the partnership is expected to create high-skilled jobs through technology transfer and advanced research initiatives tied to mineral processing and clean energy applications.

DENR Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla said the agreement reinforces the country’s commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible mining practices.

Lotilla said cooperation under the MOU will include technical know-how, financing, and innovation across the minerals value chain to ensure compliance with environmental standards.

By integrating advanced recycling technologies and sustainable mining practices, the Philippines aims to solidify its reputation as a “trusted and green” global supplier of critical minerals.

“Through this agreement, we expect to attract substantial and diverse investments that will develop the local workforce and strengthen our standing in the industries of the future,” Roque added.

The Board of Investments emphasized that diversification of export markets and deeper participation in value-added processing are critical for national security and economic resilience.

Officials said capturing the full value of the country’s natural resources will allow the Philippines to strengthen its industrial base while contributing to the global transition to clean energy.