Philippines: competition commission probes cement industry

The Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) has warned cement companies of the repercussions should it violate antitrust laws. PCC Commissioner, El Cid Butuyan, said, "We intend to exercise our enforcement powers in a way that is envisioned under the law, which is a muscular agency, not a paper-pushing, rubber-stamping agency."

The agency has decided to investigate the country’s cement industry after a private citizen filed a case. Mr Butuyan said the person in question was a former public official who felt there was a possible abuse of dominant position amongst cement players in the country.

The Cement Manufacturers Association of the Philippines (CeMAP) denies any such claims that competition laws have been violated. CeMAP President Ernesto Ordoñez said, "We believe competition motivates manufacturers to give the best they can offer, as well as benefits the consumers by giving them the opportunity to get what best serves their needs… We follow very strictly the competition law and are very confident we can answer any allegations to the contrary.”

The preliminary investigation will span 30 days, after which a decision will be made regarding whether a full probe is required. Results of the investigation should be released before the end of the year.