Mining with a Purpose
Carrascal Nickel Corporation stands as a beacon of what responsible mining can achieve when guided by purpose and community empowerment. Established in 2006 and operating since 2009, the company has turned its Surigao del Sur operations into a model of sustainable growth. CNC’s philosophy centers on shared value ensuring that every ton of nickel extracted translates into measurable progress for the people and the planet. Its Social Development and Management Program has invested USD 3.3 million in just four years, with 75 percent supporting local health services, livelihood generation, and infrastructure development. Educational scholarships and research initiatives have opened new doors for hundreds of students across the CARAGA region, nurturing the next generation of leaders.
Building People and Communities
CNC’s workforce of over 2,000 people is 95 percent local, with significant representation from women and Indigenous Peoples, underscoring its commitment to inclusive employment. Through skill development programs, 115 individuals half of whom are women have been trained in sustainable career paths such as heavy equipment operation and technical services. The company’s policies ensure a safe, child-free workplace and a zero-fatality record that reflects its rigorous occupational safety culture. Over PHP 743 million in royalties have also been distributed to Indigenous communities from 2021 to 2024, driving socioeconomic advancement across the region.
Sustainability at the Core
Carrascal Nickel Corporation’s impact goes beyond human development, it extends to the environment that sustains life. The company has planted over two million trees with a survival rate of 98 percent through progressive rehabilitation and agroforestry initiatives. Its ISO 14001-certified system ensures meticulous monitoring of air, water, and noise quality, maintaining compliance across all operations. CNC’s innovations, including smart excavators, drone-assisted monitoring, and automated dust suppression, have improved both productivity and environmental performance. Water conservation measures such as rainwater harvesting and reclaimed pond water use have cut water consumption by over 21 percent, aligning operations with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Driving Innovation and Shared Prosperity
CNC’s “Innovation for Higher Impact” program integrates technology into every stage of its operations from QR-based ore tracking and automated ore covers to digital maintenance systems that optimize safety and efficiency. Beyond technology, the company actively engages in knowledge sharing with other industry players and educational institutions, hosting benchmarking visits and training workshops that encourage a culture of transparency and collaboration.
A Legacy of Excellence
Recognized with numerous awards including the Presidential Mineral Industry and Environmental Award, Best Mining Forest Award, and the Gawad Kaligtasan at Kalusugan Award, CNC continues to lead the industry in sustainability and safety excellence. As it advances into the future, the company remains steadfast in its belief that mining, when done responsibly, can power not just economies but also communities. Through its continued focus on innovation, inclusivity, and environmental responsibility, Carrascal Nickel Corporation proves that true success in mining lies not beneath the ground, but in the lives uplifted above it.
