Senatorial aspirant Luis “Manong Chavit” Singson has underscored the importance of economic zones in advancing national development.
Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Juan Ponce Enrile echoed this view, stating that these zones will help safeguard the Philippines during times of crisis.
Manong Chavit, number 58 on the Senate ballot, emphasized that economic zones are key to addressing the country’s issues on economic resilience, job creation, and national security.
"Kailangan nating ilapit ang trabaho sa mga mamamayan. Ang mga economic zones ang makapagbibigay ng trabaho para sa mga Pilipino at hindi na nila kailangan pang umalis ng bansa," said Manong Chavit.
"Masisimulan rin nito ang isang balanced regional development," he added.
Enrile agreed, describing the country’s 427 economic zones as "anchors of safety" that can strengthen the economy in times of war or disaster. He recommended building economic zones in "less vulnerable areas" to maintain stability during crises.
"Ang mga inisyatiba ni Manong Chavit ay ang magiging instrumento upang makabuo tayo ng isang resilient at inclusive economy," said Enrile.
Enrile also defended the Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (CEZA), which has been linked to offshore gaming operations (POGOs), stating that economic zones are essential for economic and national security.
Manong Chavit shared his own experience in building economic zones in South Korea, such as the K-Beauty Industrial Complex and the Mangsang District 1 development project.
He also supported Enrile’s call to protect and expand economic zones, warning that their misuse for illegal activities could harm the nation’s economy.
"Kailangan nating i-maximize pa ang potensyal ng mga ecozones na ito dahil hindi lamang sila business ventures; mga strategic assets din ito ng bansa," said Manong Chavit.
"Ang mga ecozones ay hindi lamang oportunidad na maparami ang trabaho, ito ang magiging ‘lifeline’ ng ating bansa. Kaya isinusulong ko ito upang masigurong maging self-reliant ang Pilipinas at maging handa sa anumang mga problemang darating sa hinaharap," he concluded.
