The Philippines: CeMAP assures earthquake-resistant local cement

After a 2.7-magnitude earthquake struck The Philippines last October, Philvolcs (Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology) has been closely watching Metro Manila’s Valley Fault system since a more severe tremor caused by the Valley Fault system will impact most of the buildings and infrastructures in the city.

A 7.2-magnitude quake will test the safety and quality of locally manufactured cement, the main component of concrete structures, which according to the Cement Manufacturers’ Association of the Philippines (CeMAP) undergoes strict quality control and monitoring.

“CeMAP’s monthly review and rigorous analysis of the products both from the market and direct from the plant ensures consistency in the production of high quality local cement. With the stringent testing processes that we perform on these products, the consumers can trust to get safe, top quality cement with every bag they purchase,” said CeMAP president Ernesto Ordoñez.

Aside from complying with Philippine National Standards set by government agencies, CTC also guarantees that the products they certify also comply with the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)’s standard specifications.

Ordoñez further promotes the use of local cement by stressing the advantage of having a local office in addressing any issues. “If the company has a local office, any concerns can be addressed accordingly and much faster. This is impossible to do for imported cements. The proximity of the customer to the manufacturer makes the process much easier and more efficient.”