CEMEX’s low carbon cement now accredited and authorized for government projects

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has officially accredited and authorized the use of Blended Hydraulic Cement Type IT in government infrastructure projects following the ASTM C595 requirements as required in the DPWH Blue Book.

In an official letter addressed to CEMEX Philippines, DPWH said the use of blended hydraulic cement Type IT must have the requisite certification in accordance with PNS 63:2019, and must be utilized according to DPWH Standard specification and tested using ASTM C595.

CEMEX Philippines launched its low carbon cement products, APO and Rizal Portland Vertua Ultra Type IT last year. These two eco-friendly cement products follow the highest quality standards and are compliant with the requirements of ASTM C595 – 2021 and PNS63: 2019, for both chemical and physical property requirements as required by items 700 and 300 of the DPWH Blue Book.

“In line with CEMEX’s continuing commitment to sustainability and participating in a green economy, we welcome this positive development,” CEMEX Holdings Philippines President and CEO Luis Franco said. “Our innovative and eco-friendly Vertua products can now further support the country’s infrastructure programs, in a more sustainable and resource-efficient manner,” Franco added.

CEMEX is one of only three cement companies in the country given the accreditation and authorization to have its blended hydraulic cement Type IT used in public works.

“We thank the DPWH for paving the way for companies like us to be active contributors in helping meet global efforts in addressing climate change through sustainable products and solutions,” Franco said.

APO and Rizal Portland Vertua Ultra Type IT are manufactured at CEMEX’s APO Cement Plant in Naga, Cebu and Solid Cement Plant in Antipolo, Rizal. Both are ‘low carbon by design’ and are especially produced to have at least 40% lower CO₂ footprint than its predecessors, the APO Premium Type IP and Rizal Super Type IP. Both Vertua-labeled products also perform as required in mortar and concrete in terms of strength and durability compared to the previous products.

CEMEX continues to advocate for a green economy and have been introducing innovative processes in recent years to fulfill the company’s Future in Action agenda, the company’s global strategy to help mitigate the impact of climate change by reducing CO₂ emissions by 35% by 2025 and by more than 40% by 2030, with the ultimate goal of becoming a net-zero CO₂ company by 2050.