Mercado Minerals Announces Commencement of Drone Magnetic Survey and Drone LiDAR Survey on the Copalito Project

Executive Summary

• Mercado Minerals has begun the first phase of geophysical work at its Copalito Project in Sinaloa, Mexico, initiating a high‑resolution UAV magnetic survey followed by a drone LiDAR survey.
• The magnetic survey will cover 1,885 ha with 50‑m line spacing to map known veins and explore extensions; the LiDAR survey will cover 1,867 ha to improve topographic detail and aid surface mapping.
• Surveys are being performed by Jesus Mendez Geoconsultores (magnetic) and GeoDigital Imaging de Mexico (LiDAR), with LiDAR work slated to start in the first week of February 2026.

Key Details

• Magnetic Survey:
• Contractor: Jesus Mendez Geoconsultores
• Area: 1,885 hectares
• Method: High‑resolution UAV magnetic survey, 50‑m line spacing

• Objective: Map existing vein structures, identify extensions, and collect data over unexplored portions of the property.

• LiDAR Survey:

• Contractor: GeoDigital Imaging de Mexico
• Area: 1,867 hectares
• Method: Drone‑based LiDAR survey
• Expected start: First week of February 2026 (after magnetic survey completion)

• Objective: Enhance topographic detail, support geological mapping, and pinpoint new prospective zones.

• Management Commentary:

• CEO Daniel Rodriguez emphasized that integrating the forthcoming magnetic data with existing geochemical results will improve subsurface understanding ahead of a planned diamond‑drill program.

• Qualified Person Review:

• Technical information reviewed and approved by Kelson Willms, P.Geo., Archer, Cathro & Associates (1981) Ltd., qualified under NI 43‑101.

Notable Quotes

• “Geophysics is an important step in advancing Copalito. We have extensive geochemical data, and integrating it with magnetic survey results will help us better understand the subsurface structures as we prepare for our upcoming diamond drill program.” – Daniel Rodriguez, CEO & Director.