Philippines tightens cement labeling rules to curb misleading imports and boost low-carbon transparency

The Philippines Department of Trade and Industry released supplemental guidelines for Portland and blended hydraulic cement certification. The rules, under Memorandum Circular 26-02, require manufacturers to declare limestone percentage, carbon dioxide content, and equivalent alkalis on labels. Imported cement shipments now face stricter inspection and testing before sale, closing loopholes that allowed non-compliant products to reach the market. Cement is a major source of industrial emissions, and accurate labeling helps buyers choose lower-carbon options. The updated Philippine National Standards aim to improve product quality and environmental transparency. Local and foreign manufacturers have six months to comply with the new chemical and physical requirements, with post-shipment inspections starting 15 days after publication.