The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) reported that it approved P30.156 billion in investment pledges during its first Board Meeting for 2025.
PEZA Director General Tereso O. Panga noted that the combined approval during their first 2025 Board meeting on Jan. 23 was 1,263% increase from the P2.212 billion investments approved in January last year.
This achievement is a crucial step toward The agency, which administers the tax incentives to export-oriented projects, aims to grow their investment approval this year by 9-10% versus the entire of 2024. It also sees 5% increase for both export revenues and employment in line with industry growth targets for 2025.
“This is a bright and promising welcome for 2025. The strong growth in our investment performance for January underscores our commitment to meet our 2025 target of P235-250 billion in investments. It is an encouraging sign that we are on the right path to success,” said Panga.
The new approvals represent the combined investment cost on 12 new and expansion projects, which are expected to generate US$32.177 million in exports and create 3,270 direct jobs. These projects span multiple sectors, including five export manufacturing ventures, four IT-BPM projects, and three domestic market projects. They are strategically located across Metro Manila, CALABARZON, Central Luzon, and Central Visayas.
Trade Secretary and PEZA Chair Cristina Roque emphasized the diverse range of projects, stating, “This is a testament to the versatility of the PEZA ecosystem, catering to both local and international markets. The approved projects will not only strengthen our export sector but also generate substantial local employment, further fostering inclusive growth.”
Notably, investments from key international markets such as the United Kingdom, China, the Netherlands, Australia, and Malaysia have surged, with the United Kingdom emerging as PEZA’s leading investor for January.
The biggest approved project is the P28 billion beverage production and distribution facility in Tarlac City. PEZA did not divulge the name of the company. Another significant project, focused on energy storage systems, is investing more than P1.2 billion in the Mactan Economic Zone (MEZ).
“This major domestic market project will play a crucial role in strengthening Tarlac’s manufacturing and commercial hub. It aligns with our commitment to expanding regional investment opportunities and supporting the country’s broader economic goals,” Panga said.
