The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) has recognized government agencies, industry leaders, and civil society groups that have partnered with them in promoting the country's ecozones and competitiveness in efforts to make it a premier investment hub in Asia.
The state-run agency conferred the "Galing Pinas Ecozone Investment Partnership Award 2021" during its 26th anniversary celebration last month in recognition of their partners' "relentless assistance, contribution, and support to PEZA’s programs".
PEZA Director General Charito Plaza said the awardees' efforts cover areas in economic zone development, investments promotion, community projects, policy, and legislative actions or advocacies aimed at the overall goal to fully industrialize and promote the Philippines as an investments haven in Asia.
According to PEZA, the list of awardees was divided into seven categories -- government partners, Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs), the PEZA Board, Industry Associations, Foreign Chambers, various stakeholders, and its selected investment promotion partners (Ka-PIPPs).
IPAs are government entities in charge of promoting investments, administering tax and non-tax incentives, as well as overseeing the operations of the different economic and Freeport zones per their respective charters.
PEZA Board Members were recognized for their continuous formulation and implementation of policies, plans, and programs of the Authority. This includes the establishment and enforcement of rules, regulations, and standards governing the establishment and operation of economic zones.
On the other hand, industry associations, various stakeholders, and foreign chambers of commerce have been awarded for their unceasing efforts as PEZA’s outstanding partners and locator companies.
The chambers of commerce, PEZA said, also plays a vital role in linking, associating, and growing businesses in the Philippines by providing useful information and practical assistance to companies that are planning on outsourcing to the Philippines.
In line with PEZA's 10-point program and special projects that seek to build partnerships with international and domestic business chambers and industries' associations, the agency also recognized various agencies and institutions or Ka-PIPPs.
"With this partnership, PEZA hopes to continue connecting and attracting global investors into the Philippines, despite the challenges of a global pandemic" Plaza said.