At a GLANCE: Central Visayas’ Mining Industry Performance in 2023

The mining sector in Central Visayas remained a major economic driver in 2023, supporting both domestic infrastructure development and global commodity markets. The region’s robust production figures, strong export performance, and substantial tax contributions highlight its critical role in the Philippine economy.

This is an analysis of Central Visayas’ mining sector’s production trends, sales performance, export activities, and fiscal contributions. It also explores Cebu’s role in the broader mining landscape and presents key challenges and growth prospects for 2024.

Mining Sector Performance in 2023

1. Production and Sales Overview

Central Visayas’ mining industry reported strong production and sales figures in 2023:

  • Total production volume: 10.83 million metric tons (MT)
  • Total production value: PHP 18.62 billion
  • Local Sales: PHP 1.72 billion, reflecting steady domestic demand.
  • Export Sales: PHP 20.50 billion (USD 368.13 million), led by copper, limestone, and dolomite exports.

The high export figures underscore Central Visayas’ role as a key supplier of raw materials to global markets, particularly in construction, manufacturing, and industrial applications.

2. Provincial Contributions to Mining Output

Cebu: The Mining Powerhouse

Cebu continued to dominate Central Visayas’ mining sector, accounting for the largest share of production and exports:

  • Production volume: 5.54 million MT
  • Production value: PHP 18.03 billion
  • Export value: PHP 20.24 billion (98.7% of the region’s total exports)

Key Cebu-Based Mining Companies:

  • Carmen Copper Corporation – Leading producer, generating PHP 14.25 billion from copper concentrate and PHP 2.85 billion from gold exports.
  • Apo Land and Quarry Corporation & Solid Earth Development Corporation – Major limestone producers, supplying both local and export markets.
  • JLR Construction & Aggregates Inc. – Notable basalt supplier, with PHP 145.79 million in production value.

Cebu’s strong mining industry plays a key role in infrastructure development and industrial growth, contributing heavily to export revenues.

Bohol: Strength in Limestone Exports

  • Production volume: 5.08 million MT
  • Production value: PHP 540.75 million
  • Major mineral: Limestone (key export product)

Key Players in Bohol:

  • Bohol Limestone Corporation – Produced 2.33 million MT, with PHP 121.05 million in local sales.
  • Philippine Mining Services Corporation – Led limestone export activities, with PHP 252.13 million in export revenue.

Negros Oriental: A Rising Silica Supplier

  • Production volume: 212,398 MT
  • Production value: PHP 48.95 million
  • Key mineral: Silica (important for glass and construction industries)

Key Mining Company:

  • HAZ Mining – Dominant silica supplier, with PHP 58.39 million in local sales.

Siquijor: Small-Scale but Active

  • Production volume: 21,086 MT (smallest contributor in the region)
  • Mining focus: Limestone
  • Tax revenue: PHP 3.17 million

Despite its small-scale operations, Siquijor’s mining sector continues to contribute to local economic activities.

3. Economic Contributions & Government Revenues

The mining industry in Central Visayas generated significant revenue for both local and national governments:

  • Total tax contributions:PHP 4.10 billion
    • Cebu: PHP 4.03 billion (largest contributor)
    • Bohol: PHP 62.28 million
    • Negros Oriental: PHP 8.67 million
    • Siquijor: PHP 3.17 million

Employment Impact:

The mining sector directly employed 4,212 workers, with Cebu accounting for the highest employment numbers (3,431 workers). This highlights mining’s role in providing jobs and supporting local communities.

4. Cebu’s Mining Industry and Its Role in the Philippine Economy (2024 Outlook)

Based on 2023 data, Cebu remains a key mining hub, particularly in copper, limestone, and basalt production.

How Cebu Will Contribute to the Economy in 2024

✅ Export Growth: Cebu’s strong copper and limestone exports will continue driving foreign exchange earnings.
✅ Infrastructure Support: Cebu’s limestone and aggregates will supply major construction projects, including roads, airports, and bridges.
✅ Investment Attraction: The province is expected to see increased investments in responsible mining practices to meet sustainability standards.

5. Key Challenges & Industry Outlook for 2024

Despite strong 2023 performance, several challenges remain:

Challenges:

⚠ Environmental Concerns – Stricter mining regulations may affect future operations.
⚠ Volatile Global Metal Prices – Fluctuations in copper and gold prices could impact export revenues.
⚠ Regulatory Uncertainty – Potential changes in mining tax policies may influence investment decisions.

Outlook for 2024:

✅ Continued Demand: The need for copper, limestone, and silica remains high in both domestic and international markets.
✅ Sustainable Mining Practices: Companies are expected to adopt greener technologies to comply with stricter environmental policies.
✅ Infrastructure Boom: Government-backed construction projects will sustain demand for mining products.