Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) Acting Deputy Director General for Policy and Planning Emmanuel D. Cortero represented the agency as a panelist at the Oman–Philippines Investment Forum 2026, dubbed Majlis 3. Hosted at the Fairmont Hotel in Makati City, the forum was organized by Honorary Consul of Oman Ms. Mikaela Pacubas-Yap alongside the Embassy of Oman to deepen bilateral economic ties.
Joining fellow panelists Amna Al Sharji of Oman’s Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (PASEZ), Omar Al Harthy of Invest Oman, and Department of Trade and Industry – Board of Investments (BOI) Undersecretary Ceferino S. Rodolfo, ADDG Cortero engaged in high-level discussions exploring trade and investment opportunities. Key priority sectors identified for cross-border collaboration included manufacturing, logistics, renewable energy, water resource management, food processing, industrial development, and the halal industry.
During the panel, ADDG Cortero emphasized the strategic role special economic zones play in accelerating cross-border capital flow. He noted that connecting the ecozone ecosystems of both nations will strengthen supply chain resilience, drive joint ventures, facilitate technology transfer, and position both countries as complementary hubs for regional manufacturing and export-oriented growth.
“PEZA’s network of 436 economic zones offers Omani investors a highly competitive manufacturing and export platform within the Philippines,” stated ADDG Cortero. “Conversely, Oman’s Special Economic Zones and Free Zones serve as a strategic gateway for Philippine enterprises expanding into the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), broader Middle East, African, and South Asian markets.”
The hosting of Majlis 3 in Makati reflects the growing economic momentum between the Philippines and Middle Eastern nations. Driven by progressive economic reforms and aggressive infrastructure development under the Marcos administration’s “Build Better More” framework, the Philippines continues to solidify its reputation as a resilient, prime destination for global enterprises in Southeast Asia.
To date, PEZA hosts 8 registered Middle Eastern enterprises accounting for over Php 2 Billion in cumulative capital investments and providing direct employment to more than 5,000 workers across the country.
