Cemex pushes for sustainable development with use of low carbon materials in construction projects

Cemex Philippines pushes for sustainable development by encouraging the use of locally manufactured low-carbon cement in nationwide infrastructure projects.

With the recent government pronouncements to invest 5%-7% of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) in infrastructure, the Philippines would require a stable and continuous supply of quality materials to support the significant construction needs of both the government and the private sectors.

“The Philippines is endowed with natural resources and has the technology and capacity to meet the construction needs of the country. In the cement industry, there is more than enough capacity to meet the demand for cement, and the country can be assured of a steady supply for years to come,” said Luis Franco, President and CEO of Cemex Philippines.

To support this growth, the company launched in 2021 its RIZAL and APO Vertua cement, the new generation of sustainable products and solutions designed to replace traditional high-carbon cement.

The RIZAL and APO Vertua products have a 25% to 40% CO₂ reduction compared to Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC), positioning them as the most sustainable and economical cement options available in the market without compromising quality and structural performance.

“Our commitment goes beyond just providing construction solutions. We actively engage with the government and private sectors to promote sustainable building practices. By working together, we can create a construction landscape that aligns with the country’s development goals and global environmental standards.” added Franco.

This year, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has accredited the use of RIZAL and APO Vertua Type IT for use in government construction projects. Cemex has also engaged local governments, private contractors, and other national government agencies, such as the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), to introduce its Vertua products and solutions, which will benefit the environment and generate savings for their projects.