The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said Thursday that it had ordered the destruction of about ₱60 million worth of imported Portland cement after laboratory tests found the products failed to meet the country’s mandatory quality standards.
The destruction of the 12,500-metric ton shipment was carried out on April 10 and 11 in Ilocos Norte under the supervision of the DTI’s Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS), but the agency released details of the enforcement action only on June 25.
The agency said the products were prevented from entering the local market after failing the inspection process required before imported cement can be sold in the Philippines.
Laboratory tests showed the cement did not comply with Philippine National Standard (PNS) 07:2018.
The products failed several key quality tests, including loss on ignition, insoluble residue, and the required 28-day compressive strength, raising concerns over their suitability for use in construction.
The shipment included 3,700 metric tons packed in 40-kilogram bags and another 8,800 metric tons packed in jumbo bags.
The cement had been stored in the importer’s warehouse while awaiting a Statement of Confirmation (SOC), a requirement under DTI Department Administrative Order No. 17-06 before imported Portland cement may be distributed in the Philippine market.
The BPS said removing substandard cement from the supply chain helps ensure that homes, schools, bridges, and other infrastructure are built using materials that meet national safety standards.
Under existing regulations, manufacturers and importers whose products fail mandatory standards must either re-export the shipment or destroy it under BPS supervision.
Companies that violate the rules also face the suspension of their Philippine Standard (PS) License and may only resume distribution after the agency verifies that their products comply with the required standards.
The DTI said the enforcement action also protects consumers and ensures fair competition by preventing substandard products from competing with businesses that comply with Philippine quality requirements.
