Trade Group Welcomes Issuance of IRR for Tatak Pinoy Act
A trade group representing cement manufacturers in the Philippines has applauded the release of the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) for the Tatak Pinoy Act. The group, known as the Cement Manufacturers Association of the Philippines (Cemap), expressed optimism that this measure will create more favorable market conditions for local producers of the construction material.
In a statement, Cemap commended the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) for promptly issuing the IRR just months after the law was enacted. Cemap president Reinier Dizon stated, “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.”
Dizon highlighted the significance of the quick completion of the IRR, emphasizing the government’s political will and genuine commitment towards economic progress through supporting local industries and workers. He also mentioned that the Philippine cement industry looks forward to a more stable and robust local market that prioritizes products from Philippine manufacturers.
The Tatak Pinoy Act, which was one of the priority legislations of the government, was enacted in February with the IRR signed in late May.
Under this law, a Tatak Pinoy Council will be established to serve as the policy and advisory body of the president, formulating policies and programs to enhance the capabilities of domestic enterprises. Dizon also raised concerns about cement imports from Vietnam, despite the country’s annual production capacity of 50 million tons, which is more than sufficient to meet the supply.
The trade group projected an increase in domestic capacity by another 5 million tons this year. Some of the local integrated manufacturing companies in the cement industry include Eagle Cement Corp, Northern Cement of San Miguel Group, Republic Cement and Building Materials, Holcim Philippines Inc., Cemex Holdings Philippines, Taiheiyo Cement Philippines, Goodfound Cement Corp, and Century Peak Cement.
