Delegates from Mines and Geosciences Bureau and different stakeholders of the mining industry gathered together to celebrate the 55th Annual Mine Safety and Environment Conference (AMSEC) on November 19-22, 2008 in Baguio City.

The four-day event which focused on the theme “SHES LOCAL: Ensuring Maximum Benefits to Local Mining Communities” was highlighted by several activities. On the first day, November 19, a tree planting and a press conference were conducted while sports activities were held on the second day. Players from different mining companies competed with MGB players for badminton, golf, bowling and lawn tennis events at the Baguio Country Club. A mining night was also held at the Amphitheater in Camp John Hay wherein top executives of mining industry, professional groups and other industry groups and organization gathered together to exchange pleasantries and updates with acquaintances and friends.

On the 3rd day, November 21, a symposium and mining exhibits were held simultaneously at the CAP A Bldg in Camp John Hay. Topics on the programs being implemented by mining companies were discussed by their delegates during the symposium. MGB officials also made some presentations.

In the exhibit, several mining companies joined in the said affair. Some of them were Philex Mining, HOLCIM, Sagittarius Mines Inc. Visitors were going around seeing all the booths’ displays. Some were lucky to have souvenirs such as bags, t-shirts and pens .

The event culminated with a Testimonial Dinner and Awards Night for Presidential Mineral Industry and Environmental Awards, Safest Mines and Quarries, and Best Mining Forest Awards . HOLCIM Philippines Inc. Bulacan Plant was awarded PIMEA for Best Quarry Operation while Philex-Pacdal Operation bagged the Best Mining Forest Program award.

The Mine Safety Week was organized by the Philippine Mine Safety and Environment Associations (PMSEA) in partnership with chamber of Mines, Philippine Society of Mining Engineers and the Mines