The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) recently hosted a delegation from Okayama, Japan, as part of an initiative to explore business prospects within the Philippines. This mission, which involved 20 manufacturing companies, was co-organized by the Philippine Trade and Investment Center-Osaka, aiming to enhance economic relations between Manila and Tokyo.
During the visit, these firms engaged with PEZA’s Director General Tereso Panga and other officials to discuss potential business setups within the country’s ecozones. Panga highlighted the longstanding and significant role of Japanese companies in the Philippines, noting their top position among ecozone locators since 1995 and their substantial contributions to the electronics, automotive, and industrial sectors.
PEZA’s Deputy Director General for Policy and Planning, Anidelle Joy Alguso, emphasized the Philippines’ attractive business environment, competitive incentives, and robust economic zones, positioning them as ideal locations for Japanese investment. The delegation’s itinerary included a tour of the Cavite Economic Zone, allowing them to witness the operations of existing Japanese firms within PEZA zones firsthand.
Currently, over 800 Japanese companies registered with PEZA have invested a total of PHP589 billion, creating 300,000 direct jobs, underscoring the strong economic ties and mutual benefits between the two nations.