Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) director-general Tereso Panga submitted his courtesy resignation on May 27, 2025, in compliance with President Marcos Jr.’s call for a bureaucratic reset.
As a career official with 28 years of service at PEZA, Panga said he fully supports the President’s vision. He reassured stakeholders that PEZA’s operations remain steady and that the agency will continue to back registered enterprises and attract new investments.
Major business organizations have rallied behind Panga, including the Mactan Export Processing Zone Chamber of Exporters and Manufacturers (MPZCEM), which represents 157 companies and praised him as a driving force in addressing critical industry issues.
The group cited Panga’s integrity, strategic vision, and his role in positioning the Philippines as a competitive global destination, stressing that his continued leadership is vital for national growth and economic resilience.
The Cavite Export Zone Investors Association (CEZIA) also backed Panga’s retention. Senior group officials credited him with bolstering investor confidence despite local and global economic headwinds.
They noted his consistent push for policies that benefit stakeholders and his swift action against measures that might hinder development.
Both groups said the stability and experience at PEZA’s helm are essential as the country seeks to expand foreign investment.
PEZA’s own Employees Association added its voice in support, highlighting Panga’s achievements under his tenure.
They pointed to record investment approvals, a P52.9-billion uptick in the first two months of 2025, and lauded his commitment to sustainable industrial growth.
Under Panga’s leadership, PEZA earned accolades such as the Icon of Change Award for championing Sustainable Development Goal 9 and the Global Excellence in Leadership and Investment Award.
Employees credited him with proactive policy reforms, especially in guiding IT-BPM work-from-home arrangements, and affirmed their pride in his service.
“We will continue to work and ensure that PEZA remains a crucial performing agency in the economic team of the President,” Panga said, adding that with guidance from Trade Secretary and PEZA board chair Christina Roque and Special Assistant to the President Frederick Go, the agency would remain dynamic and committed to driving investment and growth.
Panga led an investment mission to China in the last week of May, pushing PEZA’s proactive strategy to attract foreign direct investments.
