DTI chief backs SteelAsia’s pioneering venture

Trade Secretary Ramon M. Lopez backs the plans of SteelAsia Manufacturing to set up a new production facility in Pampanga instead of Bulacan, as the company continued to face stiff opposition from a nongovernment organization.

The country’s largest steel producer already has existing facilities in Bulacan and it was set to invest another P6 billion in putting up a new manufacturing plant in Plaridel. The plan was, however, strongly opposed by certain quarters.

According to Lopez, the Department of Trade and Industry supports the expansion plans of local manufacturing companies like SteelAsia as such projects are critical to the resurgence of industrial activities in the country.

“SteelAsia has a good story to tell because of its expansion projects. They have a very good model and the produce quality [products that are] compliant with the standards. They supply steel rebars now to the big developers and their high rise projects. Their plant is modern, very clean … and it even has water treatment plant. Their expansion will involve a more modern and bigger facility than the one in Davao, but they will do it in Region 3, in Pampanga, because they’re finding it difficult [to proceed with the project] in Bulacan,” Lopez said on Friday.

“As much as possible, I prefer local production as long companies can offer competitive prices, because they will be able to create more jobs and help the community. SteelAsia has all the necessary certifications and I’ve seen its facilities which are clean and modern,” Lopez added.