Philippine cement sales increased 6.6 per cent to 25.96Mt in 2016 from 24.36Mt the previous year, according to the Cement Manufacturers Association of the Philippines (CeMAP).

"The annual increase in sales for 2016 shows the continuing momentum for increased infrastructure," CeMAP president Ernesto Ordonez said.

However, cement sales slipped 3.9 per cent to 5.84Mt in 4Q16 from 6.08Mt in 4Q15. "First, the fourth quarter of 2015 was a prelude to the 2016 elections, which is not the case now. Second, the fourth quarter 2016 weather with its additional rain was not as conducive as in the fourth quarter of 2015," Mr Ordonez added.

Looking ahead, CeMAP is confident it will be able to maintain the growth it posted in 2016. "The cement manufacturers are well poised to and prepared to address the the anticipated public and private infrastructure spending due to the bright economic prospects for 2017," Mr Ordonez said.