The Philippines, home to some of the world’s largest nickel reserves, has established itself as a leading nickel producer. This 100% recyclable, non-corrosive metal is integral to over 300,000 products, playing a crucial role in agriculture, infrastructure, energy, buildings, and vehicles. Most notably, nickel is a key component in lithium-ion battery cathodes used in electric vehicles, mobile phones, and computers.
Nickel mining and exports contribute significantly to economic development, making the industry a focal point for global manufacturers. One of the country’s foremost nickel mining companies is Citinickel Mines and Development Corporation in Palawan, led by President and CEO Caroline L. Tanchay. Since beginning operations in 2011, CMDC has been among the pioneering mining firms in the country and now ranks among the top five nickel producers.
Mining Milestones
CMDC has achieved numerous milestones over the years, including reaching profitability within its first year, attaining a full return on investment by its third year, and establishing itself as one of the most credible and trustworthy companies in the industry. Further testament to its influence, Caroline L. Tanchay won a congressional seat in the 2022 elections in the province where CMDC operates.
Social and Environmental Sustainability through Responsible Mining
Caroline has been at the forefront of promoting responsible mining with transparency. Under her leadership, CMDC has obtained ISO certifications, partnered with local governments, and implemented socio-economic and environmental programs. The company has also prioritized mining and geological safety training, environmental protection education, and employee development seminars. These efforts have fostered trust and respect within the community, reinforcing CMDC’s commitment to ethical and sustainable mining.
Giving Back to Society
CMDC places great importance on corporate social responsibility, emphasizing community relationships and stakeholder welfare. The company believes that business success should be accompanied by meaningful contributions to society. Through its CSR initiatives, CMDC has focused on improving medical access, healthcare, education, and livelihood opportunities.
With sustainability as a core pillar, CMDC has launched several impactful programs. A PHP 38-million level three water system project provides potable water to eighteen barangays in Narra, Palawan. The company has constructed farm-to-market roads and road concreting projects while also investing in renewable energy solutions such as solar power and lighting. CMDC has donated ambulances, fire trucks, and other transport vehicles to communities and provides educational assistance and scholarships for thousands of university students. Every year, the company donates 20,000 sacks of 50kg rice to various municipalities in Palawan. It has also contributed millions of pesos worth of vitamins, supplements, and COVID-19 health and safety products to local government units during the pandemic.
CMDC has played a key role in infrastructure development, constructing computer laboratories, covered courts, birthing homes, barangay outposts, health stations, daycare centers, and tribal halls. The company has upgraded school classrooms and built multipurpose halls and chapels. To support local economies, CMDC has implemented livelihood programs such as livestock raising, weaving, and mud crab fattening. It also sponsors local festivals to promote socio-cultural traditions. The company’s environmental efforts include regular river clean-ups to prevent flooding during heavy rains, large-scale tree planting, biodiversity conservation, wildlife habitat protection, and extensive forest and mine rehabilitation.
Creation of Jobs and Livelihood
CMDC employs up to 2,000 workers, ranging from Bachelor of Science graduates to professionals and skilled laborers, including mechanical and electrical engineers, mining and safety engineers, licensed foresters, chemists, nurses, and accountants. The company’s operations create a ripple effect of employment and economic opportunities, enhancing the overall standard of living in the region.
Responsible mining not only sustains communities but also strengthens the Philippines’ economic progress and global competitiveness. By prioritizing environmental stewardship and socio-economic development, CMDC has established itself as a model for ethical mining practices.
Caroline Tanchay has made Citinickel Mines one of the most credible, respected, and trustworthy companies in the industry simply because she has shown that responsible mining, environmental protection, and socio-economic development can exist side by side harmoniously. She stops at nothing in helping to enrich the lives of her community and takes extreme care in rehabilitating and rejuvenating the lands she has worked on, while contributing extensively to the GDP of her country -Shanggari Balakrishnan, Chief Executive Officer, MORS Group
