PROSPERIDAD, AGUSAN DEL SUR — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Agusan del Sur Provincial Office, together with the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) of the Provincial Government of Agusan del Sur, held a Mines and Gems Dialogue on September 15, 2026, at the DTI Agusan del Sur Provincial Office. The gathering brought together jewelry makers, small-scale miners, and representatives from concerned government agencies to discuss the province’s mineral and jewelry industries, surface sector concerns, and explore ways to strengthen the local value chain. Discussions focused on how Agusan del Sur can maximize the economic potential of resources such as gold and silver while encouraging responsible and sustainable practices.
Building Stronger Links Across the Mineral and Jewelry Sector
The dialogue provided stakeholders with an opportunity to exchange concerns, experiences, and recommendations while identifying possible areas for government and private-sector cooperation. One of the key programs presented was the DTI Shared Service Facilities (SSF) Program, which gives qualified beneficiaries access to machinery, equipment, tools, systems, and other forms of assistance. The SSF Program was highlighted as a potential support mechanism for local jewelry enterprises seeking to improve production, product quality, and market competitiveness. In Camarines Norte, a jewelry-making facility previously received more than P6.5 million worth of equipment through the program, helping strengthen production and support the income of local goldsmiths and miners. A similar initiative could give Agusan del Sur artisans better access to equipment for transforming raw minerals into higher-value jewelry and other finished products.
Promoting Responsible and Ethical Mineral Sourcing
Stakeholders also discussed ethical sourcing practices involving gold, silver, and other materials used in jewelry production. The discussions emphasized the importance of transparency, traceability, environmental responsibility, and fair practices across the mineral supply chain. During the consultation, industry representatives shared their experiences and concerns surrounding small-scale mining and jewelry production. Their recommendations also helped identify existing gaps and possible interventions that could strengthen cooperation between government offices and private-sector stakeholders.
Turning Local Resources Into Greater Economic Opportunities
The initiative highlights the need to bridge the gap between Agusan del Sur’s mineral resources and the capacity of local enterprises to turn these materials into higher-value products. The province has long been home to artisanal and small-scale gold mining communities, with women also participating significantly in informal mining activities. Much of the gold produced locally, however, is sold as raw material instead of being processed within the province. Expanding local processing and jewelry production could create opportunities for value addition, employment, and increased income among communities involved in the sector. Through the dialogue, DTI, PENRO, miners, and jewelry makers were able to discuss possible steps toward a more connected and sustainable local jewelry industry. The concerns and recommendations gathered during the activity may help guide future government assistance, including shared equipment, skills development, and initiatives supporting responsible mineral sourcing and processing. By strengthening local capabilities while promoting responsible practices, the initiative seeks to help keep more of the value generated from Agusan del Sur’s mineral resources within the province and its communities.
