Ilocos Norte: Several government properties in Ilocos Norte are being considered for declaration as economic zones to accelerate development and boost the local economy. The initiative aims to attract strategic investments and diversify industries in the province.
According to Philippines News Agency, the head of the Ilocos Norte Trade and Investment Promotions Office, Rona Leigh Cheng Bueno, emphasized the role of economic zones in driving development during an interview. The newly constructed Dap-ayan Center and Capitol Extension Building in Laoag City are among the proposed sites for manufacturing and information technology (IT) parks.
Bueno highlighted the need to create a business-friendly environment by streamlining business processes and attracting strategic investments. The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Ilocos Norte has unanimously approved Provincial Resolution No. 391-2025. This resolution authorizes Governor Matthew Joseph Manotoc to represent the provincial government in executing all necessary documents required by the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) for the declaration of these ecozones.
The provincial government is currently processing several documents, including the pre-qualification clearance, endorsement for a presidential proclamation, and a registration agreement. The United States Department of State previously acknowledged PEZA as a one-stop-shop agency for investors, known for its regulatory transparency and no red-tape policy.
In 2024, the Philippine Statistics Authority reported that Ilocos Norte is the fastest growing economy in the Ilocos Region. Services, accommodation, transportation, and storage industries showed strong output, ranging from 15.6 percent to 29.7 percent. Additionally, in 2020, the state-run Mariano Marcos State University established the Special Economic Zone Institute (SEZI) to attract more investments to the province.
Under the guidance of PEZA, SEZI has fostered partnerships and collaborations with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, Commission on Higher Education, Department of Science and Technology, local government units, and industry associations. These collaborations aim to develop Filipinos as multi-skilled and world-class workers.
