The Cement Manufacturers Association of the Philippines (CeMAP) has lauded the issuance of Customs Memorandum Circular (CMC) 42-2026 by the Bureau of Customs, which enforces Department of Trade and Industry Department Administrative Order (DAO) No. 2515, Series of 2025, titled “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,” the statement of CeMAP said on Monday.

DAO No. 2515 mandates the imposition, for three years, 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 P14 per 40-kg bag, or P349 per metric ton.

CeMAP Executive Director Renato Baja said the measures are critical 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,” Baja said.

Baja reaffirmed the group’s commitment to supporting national development by ensuring a reliable supply of high-quality cement for infrastructure, housing and economic growth in the country.

He added that CeMAP remains committed to working closely with government agencies and stakeholders to promote a competitive, sustainable and resilient cement industry.