Cirtek net income up by 19%

MANILA, Philippines—Laguna-based semiconductor manufacturer Cirtek Holdings Philippines Corp. grew its first-quarter profit by 19 percent to $960,000 on improved margins and higher sales growth.

In a statement, Cirtek chief finance officer Anthony Buyawe said consolidated revenue for the quarter reached $10.1 million, or about 9 percent higher than the level in the same period last year.

“Consistent with our profit guidance at the start of the year, the company expects 10-12 percent growth from its current business. Sales and profit contribution from acquisition and major supply agreements will come on stream at the end of second quarter or in early third quarter,” Cirtek said.

Cirtek benefited from improved margins in the first quarter of the year at 9.5 percent versus 8.6 percent in the same period last year, Buyawe said.

The outlook for the global semiconductor industry this year is positive, with growth forecast ranging from a low of 4.5 percent to a high of 8 percent, the company said.

In terms of industry segment, double-digit growth is expected to come from the wireless communications segment, boosted by continuing strong demand for smartphones and tablets. The number of smartphones and tablets purchased is expected to jump from 821 million last year to 1.2 billion in 2013, as more of these devices invade workplaces around the globe, the company said.

Cirtek also sees modest growth from other market segments including automotive, industrial and consumer electronics.—Doris C. Dumlao