The Philippine Nickel Industry Association (PNIA) on Monday welcomed the appointment of Secretary Raphael Lotilla to lead the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

In a statement, PNIA said Lotilla’s experience in public policy, sustainable development, and regulatory governance positions him well to continue advancing responsible mining practices and to reinforce the role of the minerals sector in inclusive national growth.

The group said Lotilla brings to the DENR a legacy of policy leadership grounded in law, sustainability, and public service.

“His decades-long engagement in energy, environmental reform, and institutional development across government, academia, and the private sector reflects a broad and principled approach to navigating complex national priorities,” PNIA said.

“We view his appointment as an opportunity to sustain and deepen the momentum toward a more predictable, science-informed, and investment-ready regulatory environment.”

The PNIA said it is looking forward to working with Lotilla in aligning environmental stewardship with the goals of industrial transformation and competitiveness. (PNA)