The Cement Manufacturers Association of the Philippines (CeMAP) praised the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) for the swift signing of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act No. 11981, also known as the Tatak Pinoy Law. This development comes just months after President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. signed the law in February this year.
The law aims to enhance innovation among local industries, making them more competitive in the global market. It emphasizes the need to prioritize high-quality, locally produced materials in government projects, supporting local enterprises and contributing to national economic development.
“Through the passage of the IRR, we are confident that this will stimulate progress with bigger investments, more jobs in our communities, more taxes paid to the government, and the development of more sustainable products,” said CeMAP president Reinier Dizon. The IRR was signed on May 22, 2024.
Local cement manufacturers with integrated cement plants in the Philippines praised the speedy passage of the IRR. According to Dizon, it signifies political will and genuine commitment to Philippine economic progress through support for local industries and Filipino workers.
“There is more than enough domestic capacity,” Dizon added. “With domestic capacity close to 50 million tons, there is, in fact, a significant surplus to meet the current needs of the market, ensuring stable and reliable cement supply for all government projects as well as the needs of the private sector.”
This year, total domestic capacity is expected to increase by 5 million tons – 3 million tons from Taiheiyo and 2 million tons from the Cemex Rizal cement plant. These companies source their raw materials locally and convert them into finished goods.
“With the passing of the Tatak Pinoy Law and its IRR, the Philippine cement industry looks forward to a more stable and robust local cement market that prioritizes bona fide products from Philippine manufacturers,” said Dizon.
