President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday expressed full support for the revival of the national steel industry in Northern Mindanao, emphasizing its strategic importance in driving the country’s industrialization.
Speaking at the Regional Development Council of Northern Mindanao (RDC-X) meeting in Cagayan de Oro City, the President confirmed that discussions are underway with both local and foreign partners to restore operations of the National Steel Corporation.
“There are already discussions among certain groups, both foreign and local, that would ensure a partnership to revive the steel mill,” President Marcos said. “Producing our steel is critical to any industrialization plans we have for the country.”
The potential revival is part of a broader vision to transform Northern Mindanao into a key hub for steel production. In December 2024, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and RDC-X convened a high-level forum titled Building the Future: A Forum on the Establishment of an Integrated Steel Mill (ISM) in Northern Mindanao. The event brought together stakeholders from national agencies, local governments, the business sector, and academia to chart a roadmap toward reestablishing a steel powerhouse in the region.
President Marcos also pledged to engage the Department of Energy (DOE) to assess whether the Agus-Pulangi Hydropower Complex (APHC) can meet the energy demands of a large-scale steel operation. The APHC, located in Maramag, Bukidnon, comprises seven run-of-river hydropower plants with a combined installed capacity of approximately 1,000 megawatts (MW). However, steel production in the region would require at least 1,500 MW of consistent power.
“I will raise your concerns with Secretary Raphael Lotilla of the DOE to explore what’s technically feasible. A thorough analysis is needed to determine if we can reach the 1,500 MW mark,” the President noted.
RDC-X members have been advocating for the redevelopment of the 500-hectare site previously occupied by National Steel Corp., highlighting its potential to restore Cagayan de Oro’s reputation as the “industrial city of the South” and generate significant employment opportunities.
