Global Ferronickel Holdings Inc. (FNI) said its Palawan subsidiary, Ipilan Nickel Corp. (INC), is targeting the production of 1.5 million wet metric tons (WMT) of nickel ore this year, provided weather and operating conditions remain favorable.

This year’s target is significantly higher than the company’s output last year, which was adversely affected by poor weather conditions.

FNI sold a total of 3.664 million WMT of nickel ore during the first nine months of 2025, down 14.2 percent year-on-year from 4.27 million WMT, as prolonged rains constrained operating days at both its Palawan and Surigao sites.

Despite lower volumes, INC posted an 11.8-percent increase in revenues to ₱2.3 billion, as stronger realized prices offset weather-related production constraints.

In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) on Thursday, Jan. 29, FNI said INC has officially commenced mining operations for calendar year 2026 following the successful loading of its first nickel ore shipment for the year.

The bulk carrier MV RU Cheng Shan completed loading at Ipilan’s anchorage area in Brooke’s Point, Palawan, and has since departed for China carrying 53,912 WMT of 1.3-percent low-grade nickel ore.

The projected sales mix for 2026 is 52.6-percent low-grade and 47.4-percent medium-grade nickel ore, in line with the company’s market strategy and customer requirements.

“The start of shipments reflects the strong operational readiness of Ipilan’s mine site and its continued ramp-up under a comprehensive mine development program for the year,” FNI said.

Key activities include the expansion of mining areas, the construction of additional haul roads, and the installation of critical environmental protection structures.

These initiatives are integral to supporting the company’s targeted production volumes while ensuring strict compliance with environmental and regulatory standards.

Ipilan operates under a mineral production sharing agreement (MPSA) with the Philippine government, granting it the right to conduct mining operations within the municipality of Brooke’s Point in Palawan province and covering a total contract area of 2,835 hectares (ha).

“The start of Ipilan’s 2026 operations underscores FNI’s continued execution of its growth strategy, anchored on disciplined mine development, responsible mining practices, and long-term value creation for shareholders,” FNI said.