At the PHILCONSTRUCT VISAYAS TechnoForum 2025, held at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino, Maccaferri Philippines showcased its forward-thinking approach to underground construction through cutting-edge fiber and shotcrete solutions. The event, themed “Philippine Underground Projects and Solutions,” brought together tunneling professionals, engineers, and infrastructure leaders from across the country.

Maccaferri’s participation was led by Shervin Peñero, Business Unit Head, and Ugo Castellotti, Head of Specialty Business for ISEAP, both of whom delivered expert insights on the future of tunnel construction in the Philippines.

Steel Fiber: Smarter, Stronger Tunnel Linings

In his session titled “Steel Fiber Solutions for Segmental Tunnel Lining and Underground Shotcrete Solutions,” Shervin Peñero, Business Unit Head of Maccaferri Philippines, discussed the advantages of Steel Fiber Reinforced Concrete (SFRC) in enhancing structural performance and durability for modern tunneling. He emphasized SFRC’s ability to minimize cracking, improve load resistance, and speed up construction by reducing traditional reinforcement requirements. These benefits are becoming increasingly important for urban and high-pressure projects. Peñero also highlighted successful applications of these technologies and reiterated Maccaferri’s continued support for tunneling growth in regions beyond Metro Manila.

Smart Systems for Safer Underground Work

Following this, Ugo Castellotti, Head of Specialty Business for the ISEAP Region, delivered a session titled “Safety and Innovation: Smart Solutions for Underground Constructions.” He introduced Maccaferri’s complete system approach to tunneling, which includes face reinforcement, waterproofing, drainage, and segmental lining designed to adapt to the varying geological conditions across the Visayas and other areas. Castellotti also showcased automated tunnel ribs, advanced shotcrete systems, and other forward-thinking innovations aimed at improving safety, construction efficiency, and structural resilience, reflecting Maccaferri’s global leadership in geotechnical engineering.

Through their technical contributions, both Peñero and Castellotti reinforced Maccaferri’s mission to deliver sustainable, performance-driven solutions to the country’s growing tunneling needs. Their presence at PHILCONSTRUCT VISAYAS reflects the company’s strong support for regional development and its continuing commitment to excellence in underground infrastructure.

For more on Maccaferri’s underground construction and tunnelling technologies, contact us at [email protected].