The local manufacturer of fiber cement board HardieFlex has shut down its factory in the Philippines, marking the end of more than two decades of operations.
In an official notice on its website, James Hardie Philippines Inc. announced the closure of its manufacturing facility in Cabuyao, Laguna.
The company added that James Hardie would cease all commercial operations in the country over the coming months.
“As we bid farewell to the Philippines, we want to extend our deepest gratitude to our loyal customers, partners, and the communities we've had the privilege to serve,” James Hardie said in a Facebook post.
“James Hardie has always strived to bring quality and innovation to your homes, and it has been an honor to be a part of your lives,” it added.
Opened in 1998, the Cabuyao plant was part of Ireland-based Hardie Industries plc, the largest global producer of fiber cement products.
In light of the closure, James Hardie, however, assured customers that it will continue to provide support for any final inquiries or assistance.
As of posting, the number of employees impacted by the shutdown and the reasons behind it remain unclear.
During the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Ireland-based company also shut down its fiber cement board plants in Australia, United States, and New Zealand.
According to its website, James Hardie, founded in 1888, currently operates 19 manufacturing facilities worldwide, employing over 5,000 people.
The company is known for its advancements in fiber cement technology since the 1980s.