MANILA, Philippines -- Food and drinks conglomerate San Miguel Corp. said on Thursday first-half net sales at its beer business rose 9.0 percent from a year ago on the back of a 7.0-percent growth in sales volumes.

San Miguel Brewery Inc. (SMBI) posted net sales of P23.8 billion ($541 million), up from P21.9 billion in the first six months of 2007.

Operating income rose 25 percent to P7.2 billion.

"Despite a more challenging economic environment and added pressure on the consumer's disposable income, we've turned in very strong results," San Miguel president Ramon Ang said in a statement.

"We continue to invest in brand building and are focusing on improving sales momentum and efficient execution across all distribution levels."

($1 = P44.00)