The country’s lone producer of feedstock for detergent and pharmaceutical products has expanded its factory in Iligan City with its PHP630-million investments.

In a statement Monday, the Board of Investments (BOI) said Mabuhay Vinyl Corp. (MVC) recently inaugurated its new factory line, boosting its production capacity by 68 percent.

The new investment aims to meet the growing demand for essential chemicals such as caustic soda and chlorine used in producing laundry soap and bleach.

The BOI said MVC’s investment involves the upgrade of Ion Exchange Membrane (IEM) Plant 2, enhancements of its marine-tanker capacity and depot facilities, and the improvement of its 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 to transform natural raw materials into consumer goods that are important in daily life,” BOI Executive Director for Investments Promotion Services Evariste Cagatan said.

As the only firm in the country with this facility, MVC supplies over 50 percent of the local sodium hypochlorite.

“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,” MVC chairman and chief executive officer Yohei Chikamoto said. (PNA)