A surge in nickel ore production marked 2025 for DMCI Mining Corp., with output leaping 33% to reach 2 million wet metric tons. This impressive growth was fueled by increased yields from established Zambales mines and the exciting initial operations at the newly developed Long Point project in Palawan.
The company didn’t just produce more; they moved more too. Ore shipments climbed 31% compared to the previous year, hitting 1.9 million wet metric tons – the second-highest volume the company has ever achieved. This success reflects a positive shift in global market conditions and significant improvements in the company’s operational efficiency.
Nickel prices played a crucial role in this upward trend. The average benchmark price for Philippine nickel ore rose a substantial 26%, climbing from $36.30 per wet metric ton in 2024 to $45.70 in 2025. This price increase directly contributed to the company’s strong financial performance.
Company leadership expressed optimism about the future. DMCI Mining President Tulsi Das C. Reyes highlighted the synergy between record production, robust pricing, and the ongoing development of the Long Point project, predicting continued growth for both the company and the communities it serves.
The Long Point Nickel Project in Palawan received a significant boost in August 2025 with the approval of a 25-year mineral production sharing agreement. Covering a vast 2,177 hectares, this agreement paves the way for substantial nickel extraction in the region.
Excitement surrounds the imminent opening of the Palawan mine. With permits anticipated within weeks, DMCI Mining is poised to begin operations, adding another key asset to its portfolio. The company anticipates a significant increase in overall output as a result.
Looking ahead to 2026, DMCI Mining projects even greater success. With the Palawan project coming online alongside its existing Zambales mines, the company is targeting a historic year, potentially shipping out 3 million tons of nickel ore if conditions remain favorable.
Beyond production, DMCI Mining demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental responsibility. Its subsidiary, Berong Nickel Corp., has already rehabilitated over 174 hectares at its Quezon mine, exceeding initial targets under the country’s first approved Final Mine Rehabilitation and Decommissioning Plan.
The Quezon mine, operational from 2006 to 2021, left a significant positive impact, producing 10.4 million wet metric tons of nickel ore, creating over 1,600 jobs, and contributing approximately P2.8 billion to the national economy. The rehabilitation program is on track for completion in 2027.
DMCI Mining’s operations extend beyond Palawan and Quezon, encompassing mines in Zambales managed through Zambales Diversified Metals Corp. and Zambales Chromite Mining Company. These mines serve a global market, shipping nickel ore to China and other international destinations.
