President Benigno S. Aquino III met with the families of the 18 killed soldiers at Edwin Andrews Air Base Multi-Purpose Lounge in Zamboanga City on Wednesday (April 13). Also in photo is Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin. (MNS photo)
MANILA, April 14 (PNA) – President Benigno S. Aquino III expressed optimism on Thursday that more investments would be realized until the end of his term in June, as government reforms and programs continue attracting new investments and creating jobs.
In his speech during the anniversary celebration of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) and Investors’ Recognition Night, the President said that as of December 2015, 50.5 percent of total PEZA-approved investments amounting to about Php1.59 trillion have been recorded under his administration.
President Aquino noted that total approved investments reached Php3.16 trillion under PEZA Director-General Lilia de Lima’s watch, generating almost 1.2 million jobs.
President Benigno S. Aquino III met with the families of the 18 soldiers killed in the Basilan clash at Edwin Andrews Air Base Multi-Purpose Lounge in Zamboanga City on Wednesday (April 13). (MNS photo)
“In light of this, it seems a safe bet to say they have been true to their word and by the time we step down from office, there will be an even more significant margin of success,” he said.
The Chief Executive hopes that investment numbers are likely to increase, with the establishment of a 63-hectare economic zone in Davao, the possible expansion of Osaka-based companies in the Philippines, and PEZA’s continued efforts to convince even more companies to set up shop in the Philippines.
“Internal reform has likewise led to more efficient operations in PEZA eco-zones: from an electronic application registration system, to the pilot electronics zone transfer system, which will speed up delivery of parts and supplies to export manufacturing enterprises,” he said.
The President also cited determination and dedication to service which have become PEZA’s institutional policies and trademarks.
“I am told that you are one of, if not the only eco-zone authority in the world, to operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with the exception of Good Friday. This isn’t just a tagline,” President Aquino added.
Further, the President said other investors likewise consider PEZA as the most efficient government agency, apart from being graft and corruption-free.
With these, President Aquino encouraged anew more investors to put their money in the Philippines.
“…I know this is a period when investors and the business community in general will be somewhat cautious. Right now, the Philippines remains firmly among the fastest-growing economies in Asia,” the President said.
“Just as we have done in the past, we will partner with you for the success of all from your companies, who will undoubtedly reap greater profits, to Filipino employees, empowered by decent livelihood and the opportunity to make the most of their skills,” he added. (PNA