Angkor Resources Corp. (TSXV: ANK, OTCQB: ANKOF) has completed the first phase of its diamond drilling program at the Andong Bor copper-gold target in Cambodia, reporting encouraging mineralization in two of the three holes drilled. The company announced that 1,099 meters of the planned 2,800-meter program were completed by mid-July, targeting the Thmei North (TN) copper anomaly, a one-square-kilometer area of interest.
The drilling was strategically scheduled around Cambodia's seasonal weather, with the initial phase completed before the heaviest rains. The remaining 1,700 meters are planned for early 2027, once fields are dry and crops harvested, to minimize agricultural disruption and ensure access. This phased approach reflects the company's commitment to responsible exploration practices.
Dennis Ouellette, VP Exploration, commented on the results: "Two of the three holes drilled this year encountered good porphyry and skarn mineralization over the 400 meters each was drilled. Portions of skarn were especially well mineralized. The third hole contained a run of over 200 meters with continuous pyrite mineralization up to 20%." These findings suggest the presence of a robust mineralized system, warranting further investigation.
The drill holes were oriented to the east to better intersect mineralized beds, based on structural data from 2025 drilling that identified north-northwest striking, steeply west-dipping structures controlling mineralization. This orientation aims to maximize interception of mineralized sedimentary rocks adjacent to feldspar porphyry diorite dikes, which vary in width from a few meters to tens of meters. By drilling through alternating intrusive and sedimentary lithologies, the company expects to optimize discovery potential.
Core from the completed drilling is currently being logged, photographed, and sampled, with selected intervals sent for assay. Results are anticipated in the coming weeks, which will guide the second phase of drilling at Thmei North and initial work at Thmei South in 2027. The Andong Bor license spans 100.28 square kilometers across Oddar Meanchey and Banteay Meanchey provinces.
This progress is significant for Angkor Resources, which is positioning itself as a leading resource explorer in Cambodia. The company holds two mineral exploration licenses with multiple copper and gold prospects, and its energy subsidiary, EnerCam Resources, is advancing oil and gas exploration under a Production Sharing Contract. The successful identification of copper-gold mineralization at Andong Bor could enhance Cambodia's mining sector, which is still developing, and attract further investment.
For industry observers, these developments underscore the potential of Southeast Asia as a frontier for mineral exploration. Copper and gold are critical for global infrastructure and technology, and discoveries in untapped regions could ease supply chain pressures. Moreover, Angkor's careful scheduling around agricultural cycles demonstrates a model for sustainable resource development that balances economic interests with local community needs.
As the company awaits assay results, stakeholders will be watching closely. Positive outcomes could lead to expanded drilling and eventual resource estimation, positioning Angkor as a key player in the region. The next phase of drilling in 2027 will be crucial in determining the project's full scope and economic viability.
