ILOILO CITY — The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) has secured ₱216.46 billion in approved investments as of August 2026, more than doubling last year's figures. This national surge positions Iloilo City as a primary economic engine and IT-BPM hub in Western Visayas.
A Record-Breaking Year for Investments
PEZA's approved investments reached 72.16 percent of its ₱300 billion annual target in just eight months. The agency reported a 104.53 percent increase from the ₱105.83 billion recorded during the same period last year. These investments cover 196 projects projected to generate 26,994 direct jobs nationwide.
The Visayas region captured 23 of these projects, reinforcing its status as a top destination for foreign and domestic capital. Manufacturing led the approvals with 80 projects, followed by ecozone development with 31 and IT-BPM with 30. The diversity of industries ensures sustainable economic growth across multiple sectors.
A New IT Park for Iloilo
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed Proclamation No. 1128, declaring a 4.8-hectare site along Donato Pison Avenue in Barangay San Rafael, Mandurriao District, as the Atria Gardens IT Park Special Economic Zone. The new ecozone is projected to attract ₱550 million in investments and create 2,200 direct jobs. This designation strengthens Iloilo's growing information technology and business process management sector.
Executive Secretary Ralph Recto emphasized that the new ecozones reinforce the administration's push to disperse investments beyond Metro Manila. The initiative brings economic opportunities closer to Filipinos in the provinces. It is a strategic move to ensure that progress reaches every region of the country.
Creating High-Value Local Jobs
The expansion of ecozones directly benefits Ilonggo professionals seeking competitive careers. IT-BPM projects offer opportunities in tech, service, and administrative roles that previously required relocation to Metro Manila. Local talent can now find high-paying jobs without leaving their home province.
The Atria Gardens IT Park adds to Iloilo's growing list of PEZA-registered developments. The Grid, another IT center designated in 2024, was initially expected to generate 250 jobs. These projects collectively position Iloilo as a premier destination for IT-BPM firms in Western Visayas.
Strengthening the Visayas Ecozone Network
The 23 PEZA projects approved in the Visayas through August 2026 highlight the region's growing appeal to investors. Iloilo stands alongside Cebu as a top choice for foreign and domestic capital. Fiscal incentives such as income tax holidays and duty-free equipment importation continue to attract major developers.
These incentives, combined with the region's skilled workforce and improving infrastructure, create a compelling investment case. The ecozone designations signal confidence in Iloilo's long-term economic potential. The city is well-positioned to capitalize on this momentum.
A Boost for Local Businesses
More direct jobs in IT parks translate into increased consumer spending across the city. Local food establishments, retail stores, utilities, and transport operators benefit from the growing workforce. The ripple effect strengthens the entire local economy.
The surge in corporate presence also drives demand for office buildings, residential rentals, and commercial centers. Mandurriao and surrounding districts are experiencing a real estate boom fueled by ecozone growth. Hospitality services are likewise expanding to meet the needs of a growing professional population.
