PEZA Approaches P300 Billion Investment Target for 2026

The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) is nearing its ambitious investment target of ₱300 billion for 2026, having approved a total of ₱297.14 billion in investment pledges by the end of September. This figure represents a remarkable increase of nearly 92% compared to the same period last year, when approvals stood at ₱154.64 billion, according to reports from PEZA and the Manila Times.

In September alone, PEZA approved ₱80.68 billion in new and expansion projects, marking a 65.08% increase from ₱48.87 billion in September 2025. These investments are projected to generate approximately $8.95 billion in exports and create 6,292 jobs, further underscoring the growing investor confidence in the Philippine market, as noted by PEZA Director General Tereso Panga.

“These figures show growing investor confidence in the Philippines, with companies from a wider range of markets choosing our ecozones for new and expansion projects.”Tereso O. Panga, PEZA Director-General

Of the 196 projects approved so far this year, the majority are concentrated in manufacturing, which accounts for 80 projects, followed by ecozone development (34), information technology-business process management (IT-BPM) (34), and logistics (18). Notably, five major projects valued at ₱77.62 billion include sectors such as shipbuilding, photovoltaic manufacturing, and electronics, reflecting a diverse investment landscape.

The geographic distribution of these projects shows a significant concentration in Luzon, with 185 projects, while 25 are located in the Visayas and 12 in Mindanao. The influx of foreign investments has been primarily from Taiwan, the Netherlands, South Korea, Singapore, and Indonesia, highlighting the increasing diversity of investors choosing to establish or expand operations in the Philippines.

“With ₱300 billion within reach and with still three months to go before the year-end, we are sustaining our aggressive investment promotion efforts.”Tereso Panga, PEZA Director-General

As PEZA continues its efforts to attract investments, it aims not only to meet but exceed its target, potentially surpassing the record ₱311 billion achieved during the Aquino administration in 2012. Panga expressed optimism about achieving this goal, stating that with a whole-of-government approach in place, the agency will be able to turn the growing global pipeline into more investments, quality jobs, and stronger exports. This commitment aligns with the Philippines' broader strategy to enhance its appeal as a manufacturing and export hub, particularly in high-tech industries.

“Pax Silica provided good signaling for FDIs, especially in attracting high-tech industries related to AI, electric vehicles, and rare earths.”Michael L. Ricafort, Chief Economist, Rizal Commercial Banking Corp.

Analysts suggest that the Philippines' inclusion in the Washington-led Pax Silica initiative may have contributed to the heightened interest from foreign investors, particularly in sectors related to artificial intelligence, electric vehicles, and rare earths. This initiative is perceived as a favorable signal for foreign direct investments (FDIs), further bolstering the country's investment climate.

Moreover, the anticipated free trade agreement with the European Union is projected to enhance the country's attractiveness as a base for manufacturing and exports, according to the Department of Trade and Industry.