Padcal output unhampered by workers’ strike – Philex

Manila, Philippines — Philex Mining Corp. has confirmed that mining operations at its Padcal mine have not been disrupted despite a workers' strike initiated by the Philex National Mines and Allied Workers Union (NAMAWU) on October 11. NAMAWU claimed the strike was due to a collective bargaining impasse with the company. The corporation is still assessing the precise number of union members involved, but it estimated roughly 65% of scheduled employees and supervisors reported for duty on the initial day of the strike.

Philex's managers and supervisors continued to oversee operations, including workers who opted out of the strike. As of now, mining and processing activities have proceeded without interruption, according to the company. Production and output on October 11 were at normal levels, and absences were made up for through double shifts implemented by the mine and mill.

Philex Mining Corp. emphasized its commitment to the safe and orderly management and operation of the Padcal mine, promising further updates as needed. The strike persisted even after ongoing negotiations with the National Conciliation and Mediation Board-Cordillera Administrative Region (NCMB-CAR), despite the union's authorization to strike on September 30 and submission of referendum results to NCMB-CAR the following day.

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) invited Philex and union officials to a conciliation-mediation conference to reach a mutually agreeable solution to the dispute. Philex had previously indicated that the union sought benefits beyond what the company could currently provide, considering its financial and operational circumstances.

The company reported a net loss of P200.4 million in the first half of 2026, with unrealized forex losses from its dollar-denominated mining debt impacting earnings.