Enviro News Asia, Washington, D.C. — The Government of the Philippines and the United States have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to support the development of the Philippines’ critical minerals and rare earths sector, marking a strategic shift toward domestic processing and higher value-added industrial activities.
The MoU was signed by Philippine Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla and U.S. Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg on 4 February 2026, on the sidelines of the 2026 Critical Minerals Ministerial hosted by the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C.
The agreement aims to move the Philippines away from exporting raw mineral ores and toward building domestic processing capacity, enabling greater participation in global supply chains for electric vehicles, renewable energy technologies, electronics, and advanced manufacturing.
“Through this partnership, we are building a Filipino-led industry that processes our own resources, creates high-skilled jobs, and strengthens our position in the global high-tech supply chain,” Secretary Lotilla said. He added that the initiative would help retain more economic benefits from mining within the country while promoting responsible resource development.
Critical minerals and rare earth elements are essential components of clean energy systems and high-tech manufacturing. Similar agreements have been concluded between the United States and countries such as Australia, Canada, Japan, South Korea, the United Kingdom, as well as ASEAN members Malaysia and Thailand, reflecting a global push to diversify and secure mineral supply chains.
Secretary Lotilla emphasized that the partnership aligns with the Philippines’ commitment to responsible mining practices, environmental protection, and the welfare of local communities. The ministerial meeting brought together senior officials from 54 countries and the European Commission to strengthen international cooperation on critical minerals. (*)
