The Former Philippine Ecozone Employees Association, Inc. (FPEEAI), along with Albay Rep. Joey Salceda, has expressed strong support for the retention of Tereso Panga as director-general of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), amid a sweeping revamp of executive posts initiated by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
Panga has received widespread backing from economic zone locators, business groups, and ecozone associations after tendering his courtesy resignation in compliance with the President’s directive for heads of investment promotion agencies (IPAs) and government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs) to vacate their posts.
In an open letter addressed to President Marcos, the FPEEAI, led by its president Engr. Romeo R. Sualibios, appealed for Panga’s reinstatement to ensure the continued implementation of the agency’s transformational programs that have been instrumental in driving economic growth.
“With great respect, and in the interest of continuity, institutional excellence, and national development, we hereby strongly recommend the reinstatement of Panga to his post as PEZA chief,” Sualibios said.
Among those who vouched for Panga’s leadership was Trade Secretary Cristina Roque, who noted that she expects all IPA heads, including the PEZA chief, to be retained.
Rep. Salceda, an economist and chair of the House Ways and Means Committee, also urged the President to keep Panga at the helm of PEZA.
“I respectfully urge His Excellency President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to keep Director General Theo B. Panga in service. His continued leadership will help secure the President’s goal of positioning the Philippines as a top investment destination in Southeast Asia,” Salceda said.
He described Panga as one of the most strategic and effective appointments made under the current administration.
FPEEAI noted that under Panga’s leadership, PEZA has achieved substantial milestones, including a significant rise in investment approvals, increased job generation, and a strengthened role as a key contributor to the Philippine economy.
