The gross production value of mineral resources in Davao Region stood at PHP11.7 billion in 2023, an official of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau in the Davao Region (MGB-11) reported Tuesday.

During the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas forum here, MGB-11 Officer-in-Charge Beverly Mae Brevante said the region is rich in mineral resources, particularly gold, nickel and copper.

The value is based on the production of four large-scale mineral companies with collective excise tax payments of PHP487.7 million last year.

“The excise tax goes to the national government,” Brevante said, adding that the region currently has 41 large-scale mining agreements and permits.

Department of Environment and Natural Resources in Davao Region Director Ma. Mercedes Dumagan said Davao Region is also rich in sand and gravel deposits, with 313 sand and gravel permits issued by the local government units. (PNA)