President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has approved the creation and expansion of special economic zones in Batangas and Iloilo, a move expected to unlock billions of pesos in investments and generate over 5,000 jobs in manufacturing and information technology.
The decision highlights the administration’s push to spread economic growth beyond Metro Manila and strengthen the role of provinces as engines of investment-led development.
“This means more jobs and stronger provincial economies,” Executive Secretary Ralph Recto said, as he noted that the new ecozones would bring employment and business opportunities closer to Filipino families.
In Batangas, Proclamation No. 1127 expanded the First Industrial Township–Special Economic Zone in Tanauan City to include additional land in Barangays Pagaspas and Trapiche.
The ecozone, home to 14 PEZA-registered firms employing more than 1,600 workers, is projected to attract ₱1.5 billion in new manufacturing investments and create 1,850 additional jobs.
In Iloilo, Proclamation No. 1128 established Atria Gardens as a new information technology park special economic zone in Mandurriao district.
The project is expected to draw ₱550 million in investments and generate around 2,200 jobs, reinforcing Iloilo’s position as a growing IT and business process services hub.
The proclamations, signed on January 6 following recommendations from the PEZA Board, form part of the government’s broader strategy to attract high-value industries, boost employment, and promote more balanced regional growth through special economic zones.