Surigao cement plant reopens, revitalizing local economy

The Pacific Cement Corporation (PACEMCO), once a major industrial player in Mindanao, officially reopened its plant in Barangay Quezon, Surigao City on Friday after an 11-year closure. The revival was made possible through significant investments from San Miguel Corporation (SMC), signaling renewed economic growth and job opportunities in the region.

San Miguel Corporation vice chairman and chief operating officer John Paul Ang led the inauguration ceremony, joined by Surigao City Mayor Pablo Yves Dumlao II, Surigao del Norte Governor Robert Lyndon Barbers, and Representative Robert Ace Barbers.

"PACEMCO was a big part of Surigao’s history and one of the region’s largest companies. It is a Filipino-owned and controlled cement factory," Ang said, highlighting the company's legacy of supporting infrastructure development across Mindanao since its founding in 1967.

The plant’s reopening is expected to generate new jobs, strengthen local enterprises, and drive fresh investments in the region. Mayor Dumlao expressed optimism, saying, "The return of PACEMCO means new opportunities for employment, stronger local enterprise, and increased revenue."

Governor Barbers underscored the significance of this milestone, describing it as "a testament to resilience and commitment," and lauded SMC’s investment as the start of a promising new chapter for Surigao del Norte.

The plant’s revival not only reflects the potential of public-private partnerships but also reaffirms the role of industrial development in stimulating regional progress and improving livelihoods.