Cement Manufacturers Association of the Philippines (CeMAP) member companies commit to ensure adequate supply and zero shortage of cement products for the Bicol region and the provinces of Isabela and Cagayan. CeMAP companies are finding ways to work around logistical challenges due to damage on roads and infrastructure in said region and provinces.
According to news reports, typhoon “Rolly” affected 90% of households in the Bicol Region, with more than 137,000 houses damaged in Albay and Catanduanes. In the worst hit province of Catanduanes alone, the super typhoon affected 35,000 families, destroyed 10,000 houses and severely damaged 19,000 others. Typhoon “Ulysses” that just wrought havoc to a large part of Luzon further damaged more structures and houses. In Region 2, DPWH reported that damage caused by the onslaught of the typhoon to infrastructure reached P5.914 billion. The need to rebuild and repair will result to an increased need for constructions materials, including cement, in Regions 2 and 5.
CeMAP member companies are likewise mobilizing their respective Corporate Social Responsibility activities and relief response efforts for the Bicol region and the provinces of Isabela and Cagayan. CeMAP is one with the nation in the rebuilding efforts in these severely damaged areas.
Cement is considered a prime commodity and domestic production plays a vital role in keeping domestic economies vibrant by creating jobs and generating tax revenues both directly and through its ancillary industries. The country has vast natural resources that can support sustainable domestic cement production.
Furthermore, the industry’s downstream and upstream linkages ensure the creation of value for every part of the supply chain.
Domestic cement manufacturers have actively supported the government’s programs, particularly the Build, Build, Build programs. This synergy has enabled progress in the social, environmental, and product innovation fronts.
All these efforts benefit not just the cement industry, but the Filipino society as a whole.