The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) is ramping up its European investment drive, courting Polish firms eyeing opportunities in maritime and industrial sectors within its economic zones.
The push gained traction on March 13, when a delegation from Poland’s West Pomeranian Voivodeship—a region known for its maritime industry—visited the PEZA head office for a trade and investment briefing aimed at deepening bilateral ties.
The visit follows a newly signed memorandum of understanding between PEZA and the Polish Investment and Trade Agency (PAIH), signaling stronger economic cooperation between Manila and Warsaw.
Leading the delegation were Chargé d’Affaires Katarzyna Wilkowiecka of the Polish Embassy in Manila, West Pomeranian Deputy Governor Anna Bańkowska, and PAIH head Bartek Wasiewski. They were joined by representatives from eight Polish companies engaged in shipbuilding, maritime logistics, industrial engineering, construction, and metal fabrication.
PEZA Director General Tereso O. Panga pitched the Philippines as a strategic Asian gateway, citing its location along key shipping routes, a growing shipbuilding base, and investor-friendly incentives across PEZA ecozones.
“The presence of the West Pomeranian delegation underscores Poland’s rising interest in the Philippines as a strategic investment hub,” Panga said.
He added that ongoing negotiations for a Philippines–European Union free trade agreement could further accelerate investment flows and trade volumes.
PEZA officials said the prospective deal, combined with expanding business linkages, could position the country as a key entry point for European firms seeking access to Southeast Asian markets—while supporting job creation and industrial growth.
The visit also brought together Philippine companies and ecozone developers, opening the door to potential joint ventures and supply chain partnerships with their Polish counterparts.
