President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has approved four new economic zone projects in the first half of 2025, with a combined investment of P3.22 billion aimed at boosting regional growth and attracting new investments.
Tereso Panga, director general of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), said the newly approved zones — two expansions and two new information technology parks — support the government’s goal of inclusive growth through economic zoning.
“These ecozones will play a vital role in attracting investments, generating jobs, and accelerating socioeconomic progress, especially in the countryside,” Panga said.
Topping the list is the P1.4 billion expansion of the Aboitiz-led Lima Technology Center (LTC) in Malvar, Batangas. Two newly proclaimed areas will add more than 42 hectares to the industrial estate.
Megaworld Corp. also secured a proclamation for The Upper East IT Park in Bacolod City. The 33.96-hectare development, with a projected investment of P1.6 billion, is expected to house five IT-business process outsourcing (BPO) firms and create more than 2,500 local jobs.
In Tagbilaran City, the President approved the designation of Tagbilaran Uptown IT Hub 2 as a new IT Park.
With a projected investment of P200 million, the 11,237-square-meter site builds on the success of the first Uptown IT Hub and has already attracted interest from potential locators.
Under the current administration, 32 economic zones have been proclaimed, representing P13.406 billion in committed investments.
PEZA is also advocating for the creation of the Palawan Mega Ecozone and the Pantao Ecozone as part of its medium-term plans.
PEZA cited data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showing that most of the top gross domestic product-contributing local government units outside Metro Manila host economic zones.
