WHEREAS, the government, through incentives, has already initiated with positive results short-term measures such as the rehabilitation and modernization of cement plants, followed by the reduction of the tariff on imported cement, and the clinker importation program which are all geared towards increasing the cement supply on a fast-track basis;

WHEREAS, the only long-term and most economical solution to the recurring cement shortage, is the establishment of new capacities;

WHEREAS, the existing price control on domestically-produced cement provides a disincentive to producers and prospective investors to build new capacities, and results in some hoarding, blackmarketing and other malpractices of unscrupulous cement traders;

NOW, THEREFORE, pursuant to P.D. No. 94, as amended, E.O. No. 913 Series of 1983, and, Sec. 18(b) of E.O. No. 133 Series of 1987, the following are hereby prescribed and promulgated for the compliance, guidance and information of all cement producers, dealers, retailers, end-users, and all others concerned:

SECTION 1. DTI Department Administrative Order No. 4 series of 1991, dated February 20, 1991 and entitled "Adjusting the ceiling prices for cement" is hereby revoked. Accordingly, the ceiling prices for all types of cement imposed under the said Order are lifted.

SECTION 2. To further ensure the availability of cement in the local market, the cement producers are directed to comply with the following measures:

2.1 Provide the DTI/BOI advance information on regular plant maintenance work at least a month prior to the first day of shutdown; and

2.2 Fill-up any projected lost finished cement production through importation of finished cement and/or clinker.

SECTION 3. The BOI, DTI-RDG, and the representatives of cement manufacturers, traders, and end-users, shall meet at least once a month to review and assess the month-to-month demand-supply situation and recommend/ undertake measures to correct any gap that will be identified.

SECTION 4. This Order shall take effect immediately upon publication in a newspaper of general circulation.

Adopted: 22 Nov. 1991

(Sgd.) PETER D. GARRUCHO, JR.
Secretary