In a remarkable achievement for workplace safety, two mining companies in Masbate province have reached a significant milestone: six years without a single lost time injury. This impressive record, spanning 2,192 days as of November 2024, was achieved by Filminera Resources Corporation and Phil. Gold Processing and Refining Corp., both operating at the Masbate Gold Project in Aroroy town.
Marionne Ruiz, spokesperson for Filminera, highlighted the collaborative efforts between the two companies that have ensured the safety of over 2,051 workers, employees, and contractors. She emphasized the implementation of stringent safety procedures and a strong commitment to a ‘zero harm’ policy, which has fostered a culture of injury prevention.
The success is attributed to comprehensive safety and health management systems, including training for emergency response teams in various critical skills such as hazardous materials spill response and firefighting. Employees benefit from annual health check-ups and preventive health programs, which include vaccinations and monitoring for workplace hazards.
Phil. Gold’s president, Ryan Rusk, praised the collective effort in safety management, noting that the safety culture has positively influenced the broader community. Filminera’s president, Cris Acosta, underscored the need for ongoing vigilance to maintain this safety record, describing it as a fragile achievement that requires continuous effort.
Both companies have been recognized for their safety achievements. Phil. Gold received a national silver award in 2022 from the Department of Labor and Employment, while Filminera was awarded the Platinum prize at the Philippine Mineral Industry Excellence Award. Additionally, Filminera was recently acknowledged as a top-performing employer in the private sector by the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation in Bicol.