Lepanto Consolidated Mining Company (LCMC) had zero-nonconformity during the ISO 14001:2004 certification audit conducted by TUV Rheinland, Philippines Inc. on March 28-31, 2016. TUV Rheinland audit team confirmed that LCMC’s Environmental Management System (EMS) complies with, adequately maintains and implements the requirements of the standard. Thus, the ISO 14001:2004 + Cor. 1:2009 certificate was issued to LCMC covering its Corporate Office in Makati City; Lepanto Warehouse in Malolos, Bulacan; and Lepanto Mine Division in Mankayan, Benguet on May 12, 2016.

The zero-nonconformity finding affirms the company’s commitment to become a socially responsible mining company through environmental stewardship. The certification is valid until September 14, 2018.

“This is a team effort. Thank you very much for your support. Congratulations to everybody.” said Bryan Spencer U. Yap, LCMC President and Chief Operating Officer after the audit team from TUV Rheinland confirmed the issuance of the certificate. Lepanto started documenting its processes in July 2015 and the full-blown implementation of the objectives, targets and programs in November 2015. The standard requires at least three months of implementation prior to certification.

Lepanto management cited and commended the efforts and determination of its EMS Team headed by the Overall Environmental Management Representatives (Overall EMR) - Mr. Knestor Jose Y. Godino, Vice President - Human Resource and Administration ; LMD-EMR - Engr. Thomas S. Consolacion , Vice President and Resident Manager; Deputy EMR - Mr. Rolando C. Reyes, ESDEV Manager ; EMS Committee Members, Document Controllers, Internal Auditors, Training and Awareness Team, Environmental Emergency Response Team Members, Pollution Control Officers, Top Management and all members of the organization who contributed and cooperated to deliver another wonderful achievement for the company.

The ISO 14001:2004 is an internationally agreed standard that requires an organization to have an environmental management system which will measure its environmental performance. The certification now makes Lepanto compliant with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Administrative Order 2015-07 mandating all existing mining firms to be ISO Certified by May 2016.

By: Joann A. Gatchalian