The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is actively steering the development of new mega ecozones, pharmaceutical hubs, and enhanced digital efficiency across the Philippines.
These strategic initiatives, implemented through the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), are designed to generate more jobs, particularly in the countryside, and to accelerate the nation’s socio-economic progress.
DTI Secretary Cristina Roque emphasized the vision behind these efforts.
“We are laying the groundwork for inclusive prosperity, ensuring that every Filipino benefits from a future-ready economy built on innovation and opportunity.”
“Our commitment extends beyond attracting investments; it is about strategically shaping the economic landscape for a ‘Bagong Pilipinas.’ By driving the establishment of cutting-edge mega ecozones and specialized pharma hubs, coupled with our aggressive push for digitalization, we are laying the groundwork for inclusive prosperity, ensuring that every Filipino benefits from a future-ready economy built on innovation and opportunity,” Roque said.
Major ecozone development projects taking shape
Significant ecozone development projects are well underway, spearheaded by the PEZA under the DTI’s guidance.
Among these, the establishment and proclamation of the Pantao Ecozone in Libon, Albay is a key focus. This ecozone is envisioned to become the prime eastern seaboard port, strategically bridging the Indo-Pacific and creating a new growth area.
In another substantial undertaking, the PEZA and the Bureau of Corrections are also preparing to develop the Palawan Mega Ecozone, set to be the country’s first mega ecozone. This aims to revive trade in the BIMP-EAGA Region and serve as a major trade and export hub in the Western Philippines Region.
During its May Board meeting, the PEZA created a technical working group. This group, composed of government agencies such as Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Agrarian Reform, Department of Agriculture, Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development, the host local government unit (LGU), and the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development, will facilitate the issuance of documents necessary to fast-track the ecozone’s proclamation.
Moreover, the First Pharmaceutical Ecozone has been established through a collaborative effort involving the Food and Drug Administration, the private sector, and the Tarlac LGU. This initiative directly addresses the President’s call to make medicines more affordable and accessible to Filipinos, while simultaneously empowering local manufacturers.
Moving forward, this ecozone is envisioned as a central hub for medical research and manufacturing in the Philippines. A tangible step in this direction was the official launch of the Victoria Industrial Park on 30 April 2025, where 13 prospective locators signed an MOU/MOA with developer Greenstone Pharmaceuticals.
Advancing Ease of Doing Business Through Digitalization
To improve ease of doing business with digitalization, the PEZA, under the DTI’s strategic direction, has innovated by embracing digitalization to create an ecosystem where businesses can thrive.
For instance, the agency has established the AI Tech Academy in partnership with Stacktrek, Concentrix, and TESDA. This academy stands as the first TESDA-accredited AI training facility in the Philippines, offering beginner- to intermediate-level courses on various AI tools and solutions.
Moreover, new work-from-home (WFH) guidelines are currently being finalized for Board approval. These guidelines aim to relax the 50% rule by excluding administrative and finance personnel from the headcount, providing greater flexibility for our IT registered business enterprises (RBEs) availing of WFH.
In a move to streamline regulatory processes, the PEZA is also proposing collaborations with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).
Under this initiative, the PEZA will soon enter into a MOA with these agencies to establish a one-stop action center. This center will promptly address RBEs’ tax- and fire safety-related concerns and promote automation in the processing of their applications and permits.
Additionally, key amendments to the PEZA law include provisions on work visa and the proclamation process. The PEZA is also vigorously promoting cashless and paperless transactions through automated systems such as e-payment, electronic letter of authority, ecozone transfer system, automated visa processing, and digital building permit systems.
Finally, the PEZA is leading the way in Sustainability Reporting Initiation and Eco-industrial park international certification programs. The agency is the first in the Philippines to roll out voluntary reporting on the impacts of RBEs’ operations—aligned with environmental, social, and governance, sustainable development goals, and eco-industrial development frameworks.
“These initiatives are paving the way for a more inclusive, connected, and competitive Philippines.”
“These initiatives are paving the way for a more inclusive, connected, and competitive Philippines,” Roque stressed.
“Guided by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision for a Bagong Pilipinas, we are not only strengthening the foundations of our economy but also ensuring that innovation and opportunity reach every region. With every new ecozone, pharma hub, and digital breakthrough, we are opening doors to broader participation and shared prosperity for all Filipinos,” the trade chief added.
