The Mines and Geosciences Bureau Regional Office No. V spearheaded the collaboration with Masbate Gold Project composed of Filminera Resources Corporation (FRC) and Phil Gold Processing and Refining Corporation (PGPRC) in the donation of several laboratory, office, and sampling equipment to Bicol University through its research program entitled: “Assessment of the potential accumulation, dispersion, routes, and plant uptake of lead contained at MGP Tailings Storage Facility”.

This collaborative undertaking of MGB R.O.-V – Bicol University- and Masbate Gold Project was launched on April 1, 2019 and ran until June 30, 2022 with a budget of Php4M involving nine (9) faculty researchers, two (2) research assistant, and a management coordinator to assist in the smooth implementation of the program that focuses on three projects dealing with focus on the use of lead nitrate.

As part of the research program, a turn-over ceremony was held on June 1, 2022 at the Bicol University College of Science Building 3. During the event, the Deed of Donation and Acceptance was signed by Dr. Luis O. Amano, Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension together with Engr. Geronimo C. Badulis, Jr., the Resident Manager of FRC, Engr. Audie M. Altiche, the Environmental Manager of PGPRC, and Ms. Arlene E. Dayao, the Chief Geologist of MGB R.O.-V.

This program was funded under the Social Development and Management Program of the Masbate Gold Project through the Development of Mining Technology and Geosciences program that focuses on research on mining technology, mining operations, environmental protection, advanced studies on mining by qualified researchers, and expenditures for mining scholars and trainees.