Thousands of new jobs are expected for Filipinos after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. approved the creation and expansion of special economic zones in Batangas and Iloilo, Malacañang announced Wednesday.

Executive Secretary Ralph Recto said the move aligns with the administration’s strategy to disperse investments away from Metro Manila and promote growth in the provinces.

“The new ecozones reinforce the Marcos Jr. administration’s push to disperse investments beyond Metro Manila, bringing economic opportunities closer to Filipinos,” Recto said. He added that the development will strengthen provincial economies and provide more employment for families in Batangas, Iloilo and neighboring areas.

Under Proclamation No. 1127, land in Tanauan City, Batangas was designated as part of the expanded First Industrial Township-Special Economic Zone. The zone currently hosts 14 enterprises registered with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority and employs more than 1,600 workers.

The expansion is projected to attract P1.5 billion in new investments and create 1,850 jobs by drawing in additional manufacturing firms.

In Iloilo City, Proclamation No. 1128 establishes the Atria Gardens IT Park in the Mandurriao District.