Land dispute stalls expansion of Philex’s Benguet mine

Pangilinan-led Philex Mining Corp. said drilling at its Clifton Project in Benguet, a potential extension of the Padcal Mine, remained on hold due to disputes with local land claimants.

- By ALDEN MONZON

In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange, the mining firm said discussions with affected property holders are ongoing.

“Persistent negotiations with the landowners were undertaken to enable the resumption of drilling during the last quarter of the year,” Philex said.

The Clifton Project, covered by Exploration Permit EP-009-2021-CAR, began drilling earlier in April to map out the mineral resources after initial checks were completed the previous year.