Ang Pahayagan

The Freeport Area of Bataan (FAB) has been named Industrial Zone of the Year – Asia-Pacific in the fDi Intelligence Global Free Zones Awards 2025.

The awards, organized by fDi Intelligence, a division of the Financial Times Group, highlight the world’s most competitive and investor-ready free zones and industrial estates.

The FAB earned the top regional distinction for its continued expansion across Bataan, efficient investor facilitation, and strong support for manufacturing and logistics enterprises. The Freeport’s balanced growth, welcoming both traditional industries as well as new and emerging sectors like blockchain and fintech services, was also highlighted.

Under the leadership of AFAB Administrator and CEO Hussein Pangandaman, AFAB continues to improve access, systems, and infrastructure to make the Freeport more competitive and responsive to global investors. Its strengthened mandate under Republic Act No. 11453 enables the declaration of FAB Expansion Areas (FEAs) across Bataan, allowing more investors to benefit from AFAB’s streamlined processes and investment incentives.

This international recognition places AFAB among Asia-Pacific’s leading industrial zones, reaffirming its role as one of the Philippines’ most dynamic investment destinations.