Philippines Unlocks Mineral Wealth: Marcos EO Fuels Race for Green Tech Investments

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has signed Executive Order No. 122, a game-changing framework aimed at transforming the Philippines into a powerhouse for critical minerals, moving beyond simply exporting raw ore to building local processing and manufacturing hubs. This pivotal move, enacted on August 21, 2026, aims to attract much-needed investments, streamline policies, and ensure responsible mining practices, positioning the nation as a key player in the global race for minerals essential to advanced technologies. The global demand for critical minerals like nickel, copper, and lithium is skyrocketing, largely driven by the explosive growth in electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies. The Philippines, already a major nickel ore exporter and home to the world's sixth-largest nickel reserves, is strategically leveraging this demand to climb higher in the value chain. The new EO, supported by nickel mining firms, signals a clear intent to compete for investments and solidify its role in diversified, resilient supply chains, especially as other major producers, like Indonesia, recalibrate their export policies. Looking ahead, the government plans to implement a 'Use It or Lose It' policy for dormant mining permits and establish a virtual one-stop shop to fast-track approvals, aiming for greater efficiency and transparency. The Department of Trade and Industry will offer incentives for local refining and battery production, creating new jobs and economic value. The true test will be how quickly these ambitious policies translate into concrete investments and the development of integrated processing facilities, solidifying the Philippines' critical role in the world's green technology future.