New Initiative Aims to Support Responsible and Sustainable Mercury-Free Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining in the Philippines

The Artisanal Gold Council (AGC) proudly announces that the Global Environment Facility (GEF) has approved an activity that will further improve the Artisanal and Small-scale Gold Mining (ASGM) Sector in the Philippines. This landmark approval, granted by GEF CEO and Chairperson Carlos Manuel Rodriquez, is a significant step toward developing a comprehensive National Action Plan (NAP) to promote sustainable, mercury-free practices in the country's  ASGM sector.

This enabling activity will assist the Government of the Philippines in creating a robust NAP  that enhances awareness of the Minamata Convention, strengthens national capacity, and lays the groundwork for the early implementation of mercury reduction measures. By empowering local artisanal mining communities to adopt safer, mercury-free practices, this initiative aligns closely with AGC’s longstanding mission to improve miners' livelihoods while protecting human health and the environment.

“This approval marks a significant milestone in our efforts to support artisanal gold miners,” said Roger Tissot, AGC Executive Director. “With the development of a comprehensive National Action Plan, the Philippines will be empowered to transition toward sustainable, mercury-free mining - thereby protecting both the environment and public health. This reinforces our commitment to the global movement for responsible gold mining.”

“The ASGM sector in the Philippines has thrived for centuries, serving as a vital source of livelihood for many communities,” said Abigail Ocate, National Project Manager of AGC Philippines. We are grateful for the opportunity, once again, to support its further development — working hand in hand with ASGM communities and the government to help transform this often marginalized yet highly valuable sector into one that is more responsible, inclusive, and mercury-free.”

AGC will work closely with government agencies, international partners, and local communities to provide technical assistance and build capacity, ensuring the successful development of the NAP. Drawing on lessons from similar initiatives globally, AGC’s collaborative approach will help accelerate the sector's formalization and professionalization, which benefits both the environment and ASGM communities. 

AGC is the executing agency for the five-year, GEF-funded planetGOLD Philippines project. It is honored for its continued partnership with GEF, the Government of the Philippines, and the ASGM sector. This new initiative reaffirms AGC’s commitment to advancing responsible and sustainable mining practices, protecting human health, and supporting the country's sustainable development of artisanal mining communities.