The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) has approved a total of 13 shipbuilding and maritime support enterprises that have generated over 30,000 jobs for Filipinos.
In a speech at the 11th PhilMarine Expo 2026, PEZA Deputy Director General Anidelle Joy Alguso said these projects enjoy a package of tax and fiscal incentives, such as income tax holidays, enhanced deductions, and duty-free importation of capital equipment.
But more than a suite of fiscal incentives, Alguso said that PEZA offers investors ease of doing business with its one-stop-shop processing center. Alguso further cited PEZA’s mantra of “No red tape, only red carpet treatment” to its investors.
“Our goal is simple — to provide a seamless, world-class regulatory environment marked by no red tape, only red carpet treatment, where global maritime enterprises can thrive,” said Alguso.
As a trusted partner for both local and international investors, she stressed that PEZA is committed to ensure its locators are provided with the ease of doing business and a competitive ecosystems.
PEZA’s most prominent shipbuilding locator is Japanese shipbuilding giant Tsuneishi Heavy Industries, located in Talamban, Cebu. Malacanang recently announced the approval of Tsuneishi’s expansion at West Cebu Estate.
In January this year, the world’s first methanol-powered Kamsarmax bulk carrier has completed all quality, safety, and performance certifications and has commenced its maiden voyage to East Asia —marking the successful delivery of a landmark vessel built in the Philippines.
Constructed by Tsuneishi Heavy Industries (Cebu), Inc. at West Cebu Estate, the vessel underwent comprehensive inspections to ensure full compliance with international maritime standards prior to deployment. Its entry into service underscores the Philippine shipbuilding sector’s capacity to deliver technologically advanced vessels that meet the operational and quality requirements of global shipping markets.
M/V Brave Pioneer, the world’s first methanol-powered Kamsarmax bulk carrier marked a breakthrough for Filipino shipbuilding on the global stage.
The 81,200-metric-ton dual-fuel methanol Kamsarmax bulk carrier—represents a significant advancement in lower-emission maritime transport. The vessel is engineered to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 10 percent, nitrogen oxides by up to 80 percent, and sulfur oxides by as much as 99 percent compared to conventional ships, reflecting the growing integration of cleaner fuel technologies in commercial shipping.
To support sustainability efforts by its locators, PEZA has launched e-SURGE, a digital Sustainability Reporting Guide for Exporters. This platform allows PEZA locators to monitor, manage, and report carbon emissions and broader environmental, social and governance performance in real time.
“This ensures that our shipbuilders remain globally competitive and fully compliant with international green trade standards,” Alguso said.
