Canadian gold miner B2Gold Corporation is expanding its gold mining operation in Masbate, according to Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina A. Roque.
“B2Gold’s decision to expand its operations here reflects the confidence that global investors have in the robust policies, strategic reforms, and highly skilled workforce championed under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.,” said Roque in statement.
During a courtesy visit to Secretary Roque, B2Gold Vice President Neil Reeder, B2Gold Senior Vice President Engineering and Project Evaluations Dennis Stansbury, Australia-Asia Exploration Manager Tony Field, and its local partner, Filminera Resources Corporation President Cris Acosta, discussed the B2Gold’s expansion in the Philippines and into its mining project in Masbate.
Led by Exploration Manager Danilo Tandoc, B2Gold Philippines Exploration Corporation was incorporated earlier this year. The opening of B2Gold’s exploration office was formally announced during the Team Canada Trade Mission, which featured 200 Canadian companies visiting the Philippines, marking the largest Canadian delegation in 27 years.
“We warmly welcome this development as it highlights the Philippines’ commitment to building partnerships that promote sustainable economic growth and inclusive regional development,” she added.
Building on its sustainable measures since beginning operation in 2013, B2Gold has consistently demonstrated its practice to responsible and sustainable mining at its main project site in Aroroy, Masbate.
The company highlighted its environmental stewardship through initiatives such as mangrove reforestation, ocean rehabilitation via reef restoration, the establishment of nurseries for endangered plant species, and the cultivation of fruit-bearing trees.
In addition, the B2Gold has invested in expanding skills and livelihood training programs for local residents while providing employment to nearly 2,000 direct and contract workers. These efforts have contributed to Aroroy’s development from a fourth-class to a first-class municipality.
B2Gold representatives also underscored the Philippines’ vital role in the company’s success due to its strategic location, logistical advantages, and skilled workers, which enabled the mine to achieve six consecutive years of operation without workplace injuries or accidents.
Joining the call to the DTI Secretary was Philippine Ambassador to Canada Maria Andrelita Austria, and Philippine Trade and Investment Center Toronto Trade Commissioner Mario C. Tani.
Moreover, Roque expressed her support for the project and informed the B2Gold representatives on the administration’s intensified efforts to attract trade and foreign investments.
