President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has issued two proclamations designating new economic zones in Tanauan City, Batangas and Iloilo City to help attract investments and boost regional development.

The proclamations were signed by authority of the President by Acting Executive Secretary Ralph Recto on January 6.

Under Proclamation No. 1127, four parcels of land located in Barangay Pagaspas and Barangays Trapiche in Tanauan City were designated as part of the existing First Industrial Township-Special Economic Zone, pursuant to Republic Act (RA) No. 7916, or the Special Economic Zone Act of 1995, as amended by RA No. 8748.

The designation was made upon the recommendation of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) Board of Directors.

The expanded ecozone covers a total land area of 55,859 square meters and is strategically located near the Calabarzon Road and the San Juan River.

Meanwhile, Proclamation No. 1128 created and designated parcels of land along Donato Pison Avenue in Barangay San Rafael, Mandurriao District, Iloilo City as a new Information Technology Park to be known as Atria Gardens.

The Iloilo City ecozone spans 48,569 square meters and was likewise established under RA No. 7916, as amended, following PEZA’s recommendation.

The Palace said the establishment and expansion of economic zones are expected to attract investments, create jobs, and contribute to sustained economic growth in the regions.