Philippines' sole chlor-alkali producer expands amid rising demand


Mabuhay Vinyl Corp. (MVC), the country’s sole chlor-alkali producer, has increased its production capacity at its plant in Iligan City, the Board of Investments (BOI) said.

In a statement, the BOI said the MVC invested P630 million in the facility to meet the rising demand for essential chemicals like caustic soda and chlorine in the Philippines.

MVC’s upgraded Ion Exchange Membrane (IEM) Plant 2, the only facility of its kind in the country, is crucial in supplying raw materials for industries producing consumer goods. 

The expansion also includes improvements in marine-tanker capacity and depot facilities, enhancing MVC’s distribution capabilities.

“As the only chlor-alkali facility in the country, we recognize MVC’s role in nation-building as the prime supplier of organic and inorganic compounds needed by many industries,” BOI Executive Director for Investments Promotion Services Evariste Cagatan said.

MVC President and Chief Operating Officer Steve Pangilinan, meanwhile,  expressed optimism about the expansion’s potential for future projects.”
“This upgrade will not only enhance our operational efficiency but also increase our capacity by 68 percent,” Pangilinan said.
“As we look to the future, I am excited about the potential for more projects that will enhance MVC’s competitiveness in the industry,” he added.

The upgraded production facilities incorporate energy-efficient technologies, reducing power and steam consumption, generating steam from waste process heat, and utilizing hydrogen by-products to cut carbon emissions. 

These advancements align with MVC’s commitment to sustainable operations while maintaining a reliable supply of key products.

As the country’s leading producer of chlorine and a major supplier of sodium hypochlorite, MVC’s expansion reinforces its market leadership. 

“Our challenges will continue until we meet the growing demand in the Philippines. For that to be realized, we need seamless support from our authorities and shareholders, as well as consistent efforts by our dedicated employees,” said MVC Chairman and CEO Yohei Chikamoto.