The Cagayan Special Economic Zone and Freeport (CSEZFP) is set to undergo a major transformation with the development of an industrial park featuring state-of-the-art, eco-friendly, and resource-efficient infrastructure. This three-phase project was unveiled by Secretary Katrina Ponce Enrile, the first woman Administrator and CEO of the Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (CEZA), as part of her bold master plan to modernize and future-proof the CSEZFP.

The transformation aims to elevate the CSEZFP into a premier investment destination while diversifying CEZA’s investment portfolio. “During my tenure, CEZA will actively pursue diversification beyond gaming and fintech, exploring sectors such as industrial park development for advanced manufacturing, logistics, power generation, food security, defense, health and wellness, agriculture, tourism, and ecotourism. A stagnant portfolio would hinder our ability to solidify Cagayan Freeport’s position as a future-proof economic zone at the crossroads of the Asia-Pacific region,” Sec. Enrile emphasized.

The innovative industrial park will feature a wide range of cutting-edge facilities, including underground multi-utility trenches, reverse osmosis water treatment and sewerage systems, a piped-in town gas system, fiber optic telecommunications, and modular wastewater treatment facilities. An integrated, European-inspired commercial development designed to cater to industries such as manufacturing, logistics, technology, and research and development will also be part of the project. Standard factory buildings will be available for storage and manufacturing, accommodating industries such as automated logistics, semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, automotive, aerospace, defense, ICT, and research and development.

Strategically located between the Pacific Ocean and the Philippine Sea, the CSEZFP enjoys proximity to key international markets like Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, South Korea, and China. Known as Asia’s gateway to the Pacific, it is the largest freeport in the Philippines and the nearest Philippine port to the U.S. West Coast.

CEZA’s well-established transportation networks—including Port Irene, Port San Vicente, the Cagayan North International Airport, and major highways—ensure efficient movement of goods and services. This connectivity enhances the global reach of businesses operating in the industrial park.

Furthermore, the availability of a highly skilled and adaptable workforce is a key competitive advantage. The Cagayan Valley Region, with its 72 higher education institutions producing an average of 25,561 graduates annually, provides a steady stream of talented human capital in a cost-effective environment. This supports CEZA’s goal of attracting investors while fostering a dynamic workforce that will drive the economic zone’s long-term growth.

This development is poised to significantly enhance the region’s appeal as an investment destination. “CEZA’s industrial park will present a compelling opportunity for businesses seeking to capitalize on the growing potential of the Asia-Pacific region. With our business-friendly policies, world-class infrastructure, strategic location, and commitment to sustainability, the CEZA industrial park is set to drive economic growth and success for investors in the years to come,” Sec. Enrile concluded.

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