Regional Sales Head of Holcim Philippines Mr. Ernesto Paredes said that they will not implement price increase despite the temporary shortage of cement in the region.

The reason for the temporary shortage is the delay of the arrivals of shipment of raw materials needed in the production caused by strong waves encountered by the vessel along South China Sea-Celebes Sea route.

The main reason in sourcing out cement supply as far as from Holcim-Iligan Plant rather than in Davao Plant is the collapse of its Raw Mill Silo late last year which rendered the plant inoperable until late April when its Line 2 has been recomissioned. Line 1 has been condemned and Line 3 under rehabilitation.

Despite the problems encountered, Paredes guaranteed the region of their capability to supply on average, 70,000 bags of cement with the presence of their Iligan and Davao plants.

He even declared that their company is giving ultimatum to the dealers and retailers of cement. If they would not sell to the consumers the cement at the suggested retail price they will not give to the dealers or retailers their orders.

DTI Region 12 met with the representatives of Holcim Philippines, Inc. on May 10, 2006 at Mang Gorio Bahay Kainan, this city.

“We are expecting that the prevailing prices of cement per bag for the coming weeks would soon be that of the suggested retail price by the manufacturers,” added by DTI 12 Regional Director Ibrahim Guiamadel.