The Cement Manufacturers Association of the Philippines (CeMAP) welcomes the issuance of Customs Memorandum Circular (CMC) 42-2026, which implements Department of Trade and Industry Department Administrative Order (DAO) No. 2515, Series of 2025, entitled “In the Matter of Definitive General Safeguard Measures Against Importation of Ordinary Portland Cement and Blended Cement from Various Countries.”
CeMAP expresses its sincere appreciation to the Department of Trade and Industry, The Tariff Commission, the Department of Finance, and the Bureau of Customs for their support and cooperation in issuing CMC 42-2026 and ensuring the timely and proper implementation of the safeguard measures.
DAO No. 2515 mandates the imposition, for a three-year period, of definitive safeguard measures on the importation of Ordinary Portland Cement Type 1 and Blended Cement originating from various countries. For the first year of implementation, the safeguard duty is set at ₱14 per 40-kg bag, or ₱349 per metric ton.
These measures are vital in addressing the surge of imported cement that has caused serious injury to the domestic cement industry. By restoring fair competition, the safeguard duties will help ensure the continued viability of local cement manufacturers, protect thousands of Filipino jobs, and sustain investments in environmentally responsible and energy-efficient production.
CeMAP Executive Director – Renato Baja reaffirms its commitment to support national development by ensuring a reliable supply of high-quality cement for the infrastructure, housing, and economic growth in the Philippines. The Association likewise remains committed to working closely with government agencies and stakeholders to promote a competitive, sustainable, and resilient cement industry.
