SANTO DOMINGO. – The Dominican Association of Portland Cement Producers (ADOCEM) launched the book “Cement and Nation: Evolution of the Cement Industry in the Dominican Republic,” a work that seeks to offer in-depth knowledge about the history and impact of the cement industry on the country's economic, social, and urban development.
Based on exhaustive bibliographic and documentary research, the book traces the evolution of the sector from the arrival of the first barrels of cement to the founding of the Dominican Cement Factory 77 years ago. It also addresses current innovations and technological advances, as well as highlighting the work of influential figures in the growth of this key industry.
The presentation began with remarks from Engineer Giuseppe Maniscalco, president of ADOCEM, who highlighted the historical significance of the industry: “The development of the Dominican Republic can be divided into before and after the establishment of the first cement factory. Until the mid-20th century, this material was imported and accessible only to a select few. The creation of the Dominican Cement Factory 77 years ago marked the beginning of a new era for the construction and development of the country.”
The event was attended by the Minister of Industry, Commerce, and MSMEs, Víctor Bisonó, who highlighted the importance of the cement sector: “The cement industry has been, and continues to be, a fundamental pillar in the development of our nation. It has not only driven infrastructure growth but has also generated employment and progress for thousands of Dominicans. I congratulate ADOCEM on this book, which documents not only the history of the sector but also its achievements and challenges. The evolution of cement reflects our country's resilience and commitment to its economic and social development.”
Personalities who attended the launch. (EXTERNAL SOURCE).
“Cement and Nation” analyzes key milestones in the industry, from the evolution of construction techniques to the consolidation of reinforced concrete in Dominican architecture. It also provides previously unpublished data that enriches the history of a productive sector essential to the country's economic development.
The book's prologue was written by Pedro Delgado Malagón, a renowned engineer and urban planner, considered the father of urban planning in Santo Domingo, who also addressed the attendees.
The research process was led by architect Carmen Ortega González, with editorial review by architect and historian José Enrique Delmonte Soñé. Both shared details about the book's creation in a discussion led by Julissa Báez, executive director of ADOCEM.
As part of the ceremony, ADOCEM paid tribute to individuals who have significantly contributed to the growth of the cement industry in the country. Don Huáscar Rodríguez, Eng. Osvaldo Oller Castro, Eng. José Enrique Armenteros Rus, and Eng. Manuel Mena Blonda were recognized posthumously. Their families accepted these tributes in their memory.
The book covers key milestones in the cement sector. (EXTERNAL SOURCE).
The publication of “Cement and Nation” represents a recognition of the cement sector's history and its role in the transformation of the Dominican Republic. “With this work, ADOCEM invites readers to learn more about the history of cement, its impact on society, and the challenges it faces on its path toward more sustainable development,” a press release states.
The Dominican Association of Portland Cement Producers (ADOCEM) is the organization that represents the cement production sector in the Dominican Republic. Its mission is to contribute to the sustainable development of the construction sector by promoting and representing the interests of the cement industry.
