Holcim to resume operations of 2nd production plant

MANILA, Philippines - Holcim Philippines Inc. announced they will be resuming operations of the second production line for their Lugait, Misamis Oriental plant in November given the strong market demand.

Holcim still has idle lines in Davao and Bulacan.

Holcim said that the opening of the second production line that they closed July last year will result in the hiring of 40 contractual workers.

The demand for cement has grown by five percent for the first semester when compared to the same period a year ago. Market demand has significantly picked up this year and Holcim has reported record sales volumes driven by strong demand from infrastructure and low-cost housing. Volumes grew across all regions, notably in Mindanao where several major road projects are being implemented.

Holcim refused to disclose the total capacity of the Lugait plant. They likewise did not say how long they will operate the second line in Lugait.

Currently, Holcim operates one production line in Lugait. It has three other operating production lines in Bulacan, La Union and Davao, as well as idled lines in Davao and Bulacan.

“We recognize that government is hard at work, pump-priming the economy with infrastructure projects, and we want to make sure that we are able to continue supporting this initiative,” said Holcim Philippines chief operating officer Ian Thackwray.  “By operating a second line in Lugait, we ensure that there continues to be sufficient market supply.”