THE Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) on Friday kick-started the transfer of its head office operations to the newly constructed PEZA Investment and Corporate Center (ICC) at Roxas Boulevard corner San Luis Street in Pasay City.
In a statement, PEZA Director General Tereso Panga said the move was “a significant milestone in the agency’s continuing efforts to strengthen institutional capacity and enhance investor services.”
“The PEZA Investment and Corporate Center symbolizes our commitment to innovation, operational excellence and investor-centered governance. As we transition to our permanent home, we remain fully committed to ensuring seamless services and creating a more efficient and collaborative environment that supports the country’s investment promotion agenda,” Panga said.
“With the completion of its new Investment and Corporate Center, PEZA moves closer to joining the ranks of the foremost trailblazers in government ownership of a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)-certified facility. The world-class, environment-friendly landmark reflects the country’s commitment to sustainable development while showcasing Philippine ecozones to both global and local investors,” he added.
PEZA explained that its new building is a sustainable and modern architectural concept inspired by the traditional balangay, a precolonial Filipino boat used for trade, connectivity and progress.
“Designed to meet the stringent standards of the US Green Building Council, the building has been fitted out for LEED Gold Certification. It incorporates energy-efficient systems and design elements that maximize natural lighting and ventilation, significantly reducing environmental impact while enhancing occupant comfort and operational efficiency,” PEZA said in a statement.
The agency also said several government agencies will also have one-stop-shop offices in the new building.
“Beyond its sustainable design, the 15-floor facility offers a range of amenities and services for investors and stakeholders. These include two floors for commercial lease, an Incident Command Center, a one-stop-shop office housing the Bureau of Immigration, Bureau of Customs and Bureau of Fire Protection, a Business Center, the PEZA Advanced AI Academy, which serves as an AI (artificial intelligence) industry excellence center and a video wall for advertisements,” it said.
Construction of the new PEZA Building began in 2021 in partnership with the LBP Leasing and Finance Corp.
“By centralizing its operations within this dedicated state-owned property, PEZA will optimize its long-term operational expenditures while maximizing interdepartmental collaboration,” PEZA said.
“PEZA thanks its investors and locators for their continued support and understanding during the transition period. The agency remains committed to delivering efficient, reliable and investor-friendly services as it begins its operations in its new permanent headquarters,” the agency added.