PEZA future-proofs ecozones with smart upgrades

The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) has launched a future-proofing initiative to modernize its public ecozones, starting with the Cavite Economic Zone (CEZ), aiming to make them more sustainable, secure, and globally competitive.

PEZA Director General Tereso O. Panga said, “This strategic initiative will elevate our ecozones to the level of world-class ecozones, positioning it as a model of responsible industrialization—one that balances investor competitiveness with environmental stewardship and the well-being of its host communities.”

On Sept. 18, 2025, Panga led the inauguration of newly renovated Police and Fire Stations inside CEZ, one of the country’s flagship public ecozones.

The CEZ Police Station, now measuring 529 square meters, and the Fire Station, spanning 738.9 square meters, were designed for greater durability, responsiveness, and emergency preparedness to benefit both ecozone stakeholders and neighboring communities.

The upgrades are expected to improve emergency response times, enhance law enforcement visibility, and strengthen fire safety across the zone.

“These developments form part of PEZA’s broader thrust to future-proof its ecozones by upgrading infrastructure and public services in line with the eco-industrial park concept,” said Panga.

He added, “Modern facilities such as the CEZ Fire and Police Stations not only strengthen safety and security but also demonstrate PEZA’s commitment to building resilient, sustainable, and globally competitive ecozones.”

Coinciding with the infrastructure upgrades, PEZA launched the CEZ Laboratory operated by CRL Calabarquez Corporation to offer full-service environmental testing for water, wastewater, air quality, and hazardous waste.

The lab will support environmental compliance and promote PEZA’s vision of green, sustainable, and inclusive industrial growth.

A symbolic streetlighting ceremony at Gate 3 of CEZ, in partnership with MERALCO and the Cavite Economic Zone Investors Association (CEZIA), marked the drive toward safety, sustainability, and improved community living conditions.

PEZA also signed a Usufruct Agreement with the City Government of General Trias for the construction of the City Operations Center inside CEZ, which will bolster peace and order, security, and disaster preparedness for both ecozone locators and the surrounding public.

“This collaboration underscores the essence of PEZA’s mission—to work hand in hand with local governments and stakeholders in building competitive, resilient, and inclusive ecozones that advance countryside development and national growth,” Panga said.

Beyond CEZ, PEZA is progressing with major projects in other public ecozones, including a Multi-Purpose Building at the Baguio City Economic Zone and a new administrative building at Mactan Economic Zone in Cebu.

These developments are part of PEZA’s broader goal to future-proof both public and private ecozones as investment-ready, innovation-driven, and environmentally responsible industrial hubs.

“Future-proofing the ecozones means integrating smart infrastructure, green technologies, and disaster-resilient systems, alongside improved facilities and services for locators,” said Panga.

“These efforts are intended to enhance competitiveness, strengthen sustainability, and maintain investor confidence in the Philippines as a strategic hub for global industries,” he added.

The future-proofing program will focus on infrastructure modernization—including upgraded utilities, digital networks, and transport systems—and prioritize renewable energy use, waste management, and green building standards.

Disaster resilience will be reinforced through climate adaptation measures and risk management systems to ensure continuous operations during emergencies.

The program will also promote innovation by facilitating collaboration between industry, academia, and government, and by building research and skills development hubs tailored to advanced manufacturing and high-tech sectors.

“As we celebrate over 30 years of steadfast service, PEZA continues to reinvent its role in shaping the Philippines as an investment haven,” Panga said.

“By future-proofing our ecozones, we are preparing not only for today’s demands but also for the industries of tomorrow,” he added.