Local cement manufacturers ready to meet growing housing demand

Local cement manufacturers are prepared to meet the rising demand for housing in the Philippines, thanks to increased domestic production capacity, according to the Cement Manufacturers’ Association of the Philippines (CEMAP).

CEMAP President Reinier Dizon highlighted significant growth in local cement production, driven by expansion projects and investments from new players in the industry. "The domestic cement industry's capacity has expanded from 27 million tons in 2014 to 50 million tons in 2024," Dizon said.

In July 2024, Japanese cement producer Taiheiyo opened a new plant in San Fernando, Cebu, with a PHP12.8 billion investment. Meanwhile, during the ASEAN Summit in Laos, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. oversaw the awarding of a green lane certificate to Thai fiber cement manufacturer Shera, which invested PHP2.9 billion in the country.

Dizon expressed optimism about the local industry, particularly due to the government’s Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Housing (4PH) Program. As of August, the Marcos administration had initiated 170,000 housing units across 55 projects nationwide. In addition, the private sector launched 2,145 new residential units in the third quarter of 2024, according to Leechiu Property Consultancy (LPC). LPC also noted that the recent rate cuts by the Monetary Board are likely to spur new project launches and higher take-up rates.

Dizon also emphasized that Republic Act 11981, or the Tatak Pinoy Act, which promotes the use of locally made products, is expected to further strengthen the domestic cement industry’s growth.

CEMAP recently participated in the 32nd National Developers Convention, organized by the Subdivision and Housing Developers Association (SHDA) in partnership with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) in Davao City. With the theme “Puy-Anan Para Sa Tanan: Collaborating Towards A Unified Housing Roadmap,” the event brought together key industry players to strategize and address challenges in the housing sector.

Dizon stressed the importance of cement in housing and infrastructure, stating, “The local cement industry is equipped to support the SHDA by ensuring product availability, quality, consistency, logistical cost savings, and sustainability.”