CMI Reviving Chromite Mining Site In Zambales

Consolidated Mines Inc. (CMI) is reviving a chromite mine in Masinloc, Zambales, previously operated by Benguet Corp.

CMI has proposed to mine 87,900 metric tons (MT) of chromite concentrate and 10,000 MT of lumpy ore annually in the Coto Chromite project.

In a filing with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB), CMI has proposed to mine 87,900 metric tons (MT) of chromite concentrate and 10,000 MT of lumpy ore annually in the Coto Chromite project.

It said the output will be for domestic and foreign use, particularly in metal foundries and other refractory uses.

The project, situated at Sitio Coto, Barangay Taltal in Masinloc, covers a total area of 745.53 hectares, of which the proposed Mineral Production Sharing Agreement (MPSA) is 618.11 hectares.

The mine was operated by Benguet Corp. from 1956 to 2006 under an operating agreement with CMI as the mineral claim owner.

Since the operating agreement was terminated, the mine was placed under a care and maintenance program. To revive the mine, CMI has estimated spending P350 million to cover repair and restoration, equipment purchase, and working capital.

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