Carmen Copper Corporation, a subsidiary of Atlas Mining & Development Corporation, reported higher copper production and shipments in the second quarter of 2021 compared to the first quarter due to improvements in grades and milling tonnage. Quarter-on-quarter, copper metal produced increased by 43% while gold produced increased by 9%.
With the improved performance amid the pandemic, the company sees business resilience as critical in sustaining the livelihood of its people.
“Our co-workers are our valued partners and are key to attaining sustainable operations. As the pandemic took its toll on jobs, we secured our employees’ livelihood. Ensuring business resilience will further support this goal. Moving forward, we will continue to focus on stable and efficient cost operations, product quality, accessibility and scale, and creating shared value through responsible stewardship,” Carmen Copper President and Chief Executive Officer Roy O. Deveraturda said.
It implemented flexible work arrangements, such as work-from-home options for non-critical employees and accommodations for workers directly involved in the mine and mill operations. To aid commuting personnel, the company also provided free bus services.
Health and safety measures were strictly observed in the workplace such as social distancing and mandatory wearing of personal protective equipment. Carmen Copper also conducted regular disinfection and housekeeping of work areas and facilities.
It followed the “Trace, Test and Treat” strategy in managing the COVID-19 pandemic. The company’s emergency responders and medical teams meticulously traced contacts of people exposed to those who are COVID-19 positive and provided regular testing.
It also established quarantine areas inside the mine site and provided nutritious meals, vitamins and supplements for workers who have been exposed to positive patients. Carmen Copper Hospital, a 30-bed PhilHealth accredited level 1 medical facility provided adequate care to treat COVID-19 positive co-workers and their dependents as many hospitals ran out of hospital beds for COVID-19 patients.