Philippines expecting a dozen new mines this year, mostly nickel, says country's industry regulator

MANILA, March 12 (Reuters): About 12 new metallic mines in the Philippines should begin commercial operations this year, mostly nickel projects, adding to a "bright" outlook for a sector enjoying cash windfall from high prices, the local industry regulator has announced.

The Mines and Geosciences Bureau also said in a report the Philippines' nickel output last year totalled 386,359 tonnes, 17% higher than the previous year's production and the highest in six years.