The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) is “expeditiously exerting all-out efforts” to commence the first-ever Philippine Mega Economic Zone slated to be housed in a 26,000-hectare land in Iwahig, Puerto Princesa City, in Palawan, and become an eco industrial township with a self-sustaining community.
Following the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement between PEZA and the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) last January 30, PEZA Director General Tereso Panga said they would soon be coming up with the surveying, mapping, and zoning activities to plan the development of the ambitious project described as “one of the milestones and legacies” of the Marcos administration.
The mega ecozone will surely be proclaimed within the term of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. BuCor has already submitted to PEZA the designated areas that will see phased development after the masterplan has been finished.
President Marcos lauded PEZA for its consistent sterling performance in “upscaling, sustaining a healthy investment climate, and catering to investors with your dynamic, decent jobs for our fellow Filipinos.”
The chief executive branded as “truly noteworthy” the continuing above-par performance of PEZA.
Panga said PEZA shares the President’s vision of the “Bagong Pilipinas” style of leadership “by promoting the economic zone model, attracting strategic industries and productivity-enhancing investments, and accelerating countryside development.”
“This will be the legacy of the Marcos administration that we are able to reinvigorate the BIMP-EAGA trade area and develop another growth area in the western Philippines,” Panga told reporters.
This milestone project stands to convert the Iwahig facility into a vibrant hub for eco-industries, a move designed to enhance the country’s global competitiveness and stimulate industrial growth.
Economic Growth and Community Development
The establishment of mega ecozone is not just about economic metrics; it is also about improving lives. The initiative aims to create a self-sustaining community that integrates various sectors and supply chains, particularly in emerging industries such as electric vehicle production, advanced manufacturing, and green technology. By attracting foreign investments, PEZA hopes to position Palawan as a key player in the Southeast Asian economic landscape.
In his recent State of the Nation address, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said creating more job opportunities and security for Filipinos is among his administration’s top priorities. If achieved, this would be a big help in reducing the country’s poverty rate.
“Patuloy nating pagsisikapan na marami pa tayong ma-i-aahon mula sa kahirapan,” the President said.
Among those who stand to benefit from transformative effects of the ecozones is Shirleen Pineda, a young mother who has spent years working in a nearby industrial park in Laguna. For her, the prospect of meaningful employment close to home resonates deeply.
“Actually, I choose to stay in the province. Aside from the fact that I am family-oriented and that I want to be near my family, I really looked for a job that will offer free shuttles and uniforms. And aside from that, of course I also look for the [right] opportunity that will accommodate my skills and the talent that I have,” she shared, embodying the hopes of many Filipinos who seek prosperity without having to migrate abroad.
But Panga made it clear, however, that it would take at least three years for the project to be completed and assured the public that no shortcuts would be enforced to hasten the approval of the clearances and documents required for the establishment of the proposed mega economic zone.
Dialogues and public forums have also been lined up to consult experts, industry leaders, environmental advocates, industry leaders, and community leaders to get their positions and sentiments regarding the project.
Most importantly, Panga said, their plans and actions will be in accordance with the environmental principles of carbon footprint reduction, environmental protection, and shared prosperity for all.
Joining the Bandwagon Among Southeast Asian Nations
Panga emphasized the need for the Philippines to join the bandwagon among the neighboring Southeast Asian nations of constructing mega economic zones to attract “big ticket investments,” with the ultimate objective of creating more job opportunities and strengthening the economy.
This is PEZA’s bold move to accelerate Philippine industrial growth and enhance its global competitiveness, Panga said.
“We are looking at a longer horizon where we will continue to be relevant and vibrant, especially when it comes to spreading ecozone development, so we can accelerate countryside development,” the PEZA chief added.
He further said that the Iwahig Mega Economic Zone stands to provide various opportunities not only for the host LGU but most especially employment for persons deprived of liberty, or PDLs, which is the prime consideration of the BuCor in entering into this agreement.
One of them, Monching, stood gazing at a towering mahogany tree he planted and nurtured years ago.
Monching had been a hardened criminal, but with the opportunity being offered by the mega economic zone, he said he may have found redemption and hopes that his and other inmates’ lives may be transformed.
“Yung nakikita natin na mga economic zones, hindi ito kakaiba sa mga freeports worldwide na kung saan yung mga mamumuhunan na foreigners po, diyan talaga naglu-locate para i-process ang kanilang mga products for global distribution. So mahalaga na yung economic zone ay isang maayos na lugar, competitive, lahat ng mga manufacturer available, proximity to the ports at yung availability ng mga talents,” Panga said.
Panga said a lot of big-time foreign businessmen engaged in various fields and industries have so far expressed willingness to invest in the mega economic zone in the Philippines.
His future targets are foreign investors engaged in electric vehicle production, advanced manufacturing, green ores processing, nanotech, knowledge-based and AI-driven industries, medical-related industries, and blue industries.
A Vision for the Future
PEZA is poised to make Iwahig a model for future economic zones across the Philippines. The initiative not only aims to boost local employment but also addresses broader issues such as food security and affordable housing.
As Palawan prepares for this monumental shift, Filipinos like Shirleen and Monching are filled with hope. President Marcos envisions a bright future where Iwahig transitions from a penal colony into a thriving economic zone—one that promises opportunities for all its residents while contributing.
