In a significant boost to local healthcare and education, five scholars supported by Apex Mining Company Inc. have successfully passed the 2025 Nursing Licensure Examinations and are now registered nurses. This achievement underscores the mining firm's commitment to fostering quality education, which is the fourth goal among the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Investing in Education and Healthcare Infrastructure
The success of the nursing scholars is part of a broader community investment strategy. Beyond scholarships, Apex Mining has actively worked to improve healthcare access in its host communities. The company turned over a patient transport vehicle to Barangay New Barili on 09 October 2025, in a ceremony led by Punong Barangay Hon. Policarpo Omega. This initiative was funded from the company's Annual Social Development and Management Program (ASDMP) 2024 budget.
Following this, another vehicle was donated to Barangay New Leyte on 12 November 2025, with Punong Barangay Hon. Isidro Relator accepting the unit. Funding for this second vehicle came from the ASDMP 2025 budget, enhancing emergency medical response capabilities in the area.
Strategic Planning and Major Donations for 2026
Looking ahead, Apex Mining is aligning its future projects with global sustainability standards. A Stakeholders’ Planning Workshop and Consultation for the ASDMP 2026 was held at Almeja Azul – LYR Beach Resort in the Island Garden City of Samal on 27-28 October 2025. The workshop aimed to ensure that upcoming projects adhere to the recent directive from the DENR-Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) to align Social Development and Management Programs with the UN SDGs.
In a major contribution to higher education, Apex Mining donated P5.6 million to Maco de Oro College on 04 November 2025. The funds are earmarked for purchasing laboratory equipment for the college's Bachelor of Science in Criminology program. The turnover ceremony at the Atty. Rimando Gym in Maco, Davao de Oro, was attended by Maco Mayor Voltaire Rimando, Sangguniang Bayan members, and Apex Mining's Community Relations team.
Industry Recognition and Leadership in Safety
Apex Mining's operational excellence was also recognized nationally in 2025. The company was proclaimed the safest underground operations at the prestigious Safest Mines Awards in November 2025. The award was received by Safety Manager Antonio Asis Jr. and Engr. Rodel Serad. The awards honor mining companies that achieve zero injuries and demonstrate best practices in health, safety, and environmental management.
Furthermore, Allan Joshua Bacalso of Apex Mining was recognized in the 2025 Best Personalities (Underground Mine Inspector category). The company's community and industry leadership was highlighted at the 71st Annual National Mine Safety and Environment Conference, where Davao de Oro Governor Raul B. Mabanglo and Mawab Vice Mayor Ramil Medina joined Apex Mining at the Community Relations Conference on 20 November 2025.
Through these multifaceted efforts in education, healthcare, safety, and community planning, Apex Mining demonstrates a holistic approach to corporate social responsibility. The company is actively building a legacy of proactive, educated, and skilled citizens, directly contributing to the sustainable development of communities in Davao de Oro and beyond.
