PEZA, SM Group eyes expansion of ecozones, IT parks nationwide

The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) and SM Smart City Infrastructure and Development Corp. are collaborating to expand the development of ecozones and information technology (IT) parks across the Philippines. On Wednesday, PEZA Director General Tereso Panga met with SM Smart City Infrastructure president Glenn Ang and other SM Group executives in Pasay City to discuss these ambitious expansion plans.

Currently, SM Group operates 25 IT parks and centers under PEZA's jurisdiction. The recent discussions centered on SM's ongoing efforts to transform its properties into smart cities and townships, incorporating sustainable development goals (SDGs) into their master plans. This initiative aligns with PEZA's strategy to develop ecozones as integrated, mixed-use, and self-sustaining townships that offer an optimal business ecosystem for investors.

PEZA and SM Group also agreed to collaborate on advancing an ecozone development program that will capitalize on the country’s strong economic growth and leverage new free trade agreements. This partnership aims to set a new standard for ecozone development in the Philippines, focusing on eco-industrial parks that prioritize SDGs, circular economy practices, and energy efficiency.

PEZA Director General Panga emphasized that the new model for ecozones is driven by demand from companies seeking sustainable features within economic zones, including access to renewable energy and clean production methods. As the collaboration between PEZA and SM Group progresses, it is expected to significantly contribute to the country’s economic and environmental goals.