PEZA approves P30-billion investments in January

The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) announced a significant milestone as it approved PHP30.15 billion in investments during its first Board meeting of 2025 on January 23. This marks an impressive 1,263% increase compared to the PHP2.212 billion approved in January 2024.

The PEZA Board, led by Chair and Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque, greenlit 12 new and expansion projects. These include five export manufacturing ventures, four Information Technology-Business Process Management (IT-BPM) projects, and three domestic market initiatives. The projects span key regions such as Metro Manila, Calabarzon, Central Luzon, and Central Visayas.

The approved projects are anticipated to generate USD32.177 million in exports and create 3,270 direct jobs.

“A Strong Start to 2025”

PEZA Director General Tereso Panga described the surge in investments as a "bright and promising" beginning to the year.

“This strong growth underscores our commitment to achieving our 2025 target of PHP235-250 billion in investments. It is an encouraging sign that we are on the right path to success,” Panga stated.

The United Kingdom emerged as the top source of investments for January, with significant contributions also coming from China, the Netherlands, Australia, and Malaysia.

Chairperson Roque highlighted the diverse appeal of the PEZA ecosystem.

“This versatility caters to both local and international markets, strengthening our export sector while generating substantial local employment, fostering inclusive growth,” Roque said.

Big-Ticket Projects Drive Growth

Two major ventures accounted for PHP29.014 billion of the total investments.

A domestic market enterprise is set to invest nearly PHP28 billion in a beverage production and distribution facility in Tarlac City. Another large-scale project, focused on energy storage systems, will invest over PHP1.2 billion in the Mactan Economic Zone.

Panga emphasized the broader economic implications of these projects.

“The beverage production facility will bolster Tarlac’s manufacturing and commercial hub, while the energy storage system project will enhance the region’s industrial capacity. These align with our goal of expanding regional investment opportunities and supporting the country’s economic objectives,” he said.

Aiming for Sustained Growth

PEZA is targeting a 9-10% increase in investments for 2025, alongside a 5% growth in export revenues and employment.

“This year’s early achievements affirm our strategy of positioning the Philippines as a premier investment destination, driving long-term economic impact and delivering community benefits nationwide,” Panga concluded.

The robust start reflects PEZA’s strategic focus on attracting large-scale investments and fostering a globally competitive business environment.