Built to be strong
CEMEX Philippines (CEMEX) entered the local market in 1997 through its investment in Solid Cement Corporation, the maker of local cement brand Rizal. Two years after, this was followed by another investment in Apo Cement Corporation, which is the manufacturer of APO cement, another trusted Filipino product.
When CEMEX first invested in the Philippines, it was the same year a regional financial crisis broke out and exerted pressures on worldwide economies. Tackling these obstacles head-on, CEMEX Philippines reassessed its operations and developed an efficient strategy, while remaining confident and committed to nation-building.
“For several years after the Asian Financial Crisis of 1997, cement demand and prices weakened considerably even as costs increased drastically,” said Paul Arcenas, CEMEX Philippines Vice-President for Strategic Planning and Marketing.
“We had to re-engineer our organization, improve production, and realize cost efficiencies such as in our energy management. In addition, we developed various products that addressed the objectives of customers with a proper value offer,” added Mr. Arcenas.
Today, cement demand is continuously growing due to the increase in public infrastructure projects and the presence of other economic drivers. Such progress has come a long way from an equally opposite scenario when the Philippine economy suffered from the Asian Financial Crisis in the late 90s.
CEMEX Philippines manufactures cement for applications ranging from masonry work to mega structures. It then brings its product to market through trusted brands such as Rizal and APO cement. Through direct sales and its broad land and marine distribution network, CEMEX continues its customercentric approach to deliver better service.
The company has overcome a challenging period, coming out strong and becoming one of the leading cement producers today.
MORE BUILDING SOLUTIONS
Aside from cement, CEMEX also offers other building materials like aggregates, admixtures, and specialized solutions in ready-mix design such as those used in pavement, housing, and large-scale infrastructures.
The company is introducing timely innovations that respond to the needs of the public through its building solutions, which include Promptis and Aquacrete.
Having customer centricity at the heart of its service, CEMEX offers technical support and product customization, particularly in concrete mixes, to match the needs of its clients and partners. in its plants and offices, CEMEX in partnership with the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) is promoting road transport safety for contractors through regular performance monitoring. Meanwhile, the company is also carrying out its SHIELD program for its customers, providing benefits such as access to first aid, safety workshops, on-site signages, and medical care.