Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) director general Tereso Panga on Sunday extolled President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for issuing two proclamations designating new economic zones in Tanauan City and Iloilo City, aimed at promoting investment and regional development in the said provinces, as well as in the two regions.

Signed by authority of the President by Acting Executive Secretary Ralph Recto on 6 January, Proclamation No. 1127 designates four parcels of land located in Barangays Pagaspas and Trapiche in Tanauan City, Batangas, as part of the existing First Industrial Township–Special Economic Zone. 

The proclamation was issued pursuant to Republic Act 7916, or the “Special Economic Zone Act of 1995,” as amended by RA 8748, enacted in 1999, upon the recommendation of PEZA’s Board of Directors.

The expanded ecozone covers a total land area of 55,859 square meters, strategically located near the CALABARZON Road and the San Juan River in Tanauan City.

On the other hand, Proclamation No. 1128 created and designated parcels of land along Donato Pison Avenue in Barangay San Rafael, District of Mandurriao, Iloilo City, as a new Information Technology Park to be known as Atria Gardens.

The new Iloilo City ecozone covers an area of 48,569 square meters and was likewise established under RA  7916, as amended by RA 8748, following PEZA’s recommendation.

Catalyzes economic resilience in regions

“The proclamation of the two new ecozones underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to balanced, sustainable, and inclusive development. These newly proclaimed ecozones in Batangas and Iloilo will catalyze long-term economic resilience and shared prosperity for the two regions and the nation,” said PEZA director general Panga.

He said for over 30 years, PEZA ecozones have consistently proven to be powerful engines of growth — attracting quality investments, generating thousands of jobs, strengthening local industries, and dispersing economic opportunities beyond urban centers.

Through well-planned and responsibly managed ecozones, Panga said PEZA not only enhances the country’s global competitiveness but also ensures that development reaches our communities, supports innovation, empowers local businesses, and enhances supply chains.

“Under the term of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., 40 ecozones have been proclaimed. One of the highest by a sitting President. This shows that the President is serious about expanding economic growth throughout the different regions in the country,” he said.

“With the strong support of the President, Executive Secretary Ralph G. Recto, DTI Secretary Cris Roque and his economic team, we look forward to more PEZA ecozones to be proclaimed this year as we further strengthen initiatives to attract high-value investments in the Philippines,” he added.