Stratbase Institute President Prof. Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit spoke at a forum organized by the Australian Trade and Investment Commission. The event is part of the first-ever Australian Sustainable Mining Mission to the Philippines, which brings together around 30 delegates to gain a deeper understanding of the Philippine mining industry, its challenges, opportunities, and pathways to market access.  

Prof. Manhit spoke about geoeconomic confrontation, focusing on the confluence of national security and economic security in trade and investments. In his remarks, he emphasized the need for investments such as sustainable mining as a way to create jobs and drive economic growth.  

In the evening, Prof. Manhit attended a cocktail reception hosted at the residence of the Australian Ambassador to the Philippines. In his remarks, H.E. Marc Innes-Brown highlighted that the mining mission is a tangible example of the Australian government’s efforts to facilitate greater trade and investment between the Philippines and Australia. He underscored the strong record of Australian mining companies across a range of areas, including safety, sustainability, and the delivery of benefits to host communities.  

The Stratbase Institute continues to advocate that responsible mining is possible. With over nine million hectares of land with mineral potential that largely remain untapped, the government and private sector must work together to unlock the mining industry’s full potential. By leveraging its critical mineral resources, the Philippines can become a key player in the global value chain supporting the transition to renewable energy technologies.