The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) Group and the World Free Zones Organization (WFZO) explored strategic collaboration to strengthen the Philippines’ position as a competitive destination for global investments.

BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang met with WFZO Chairman H.E. Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, CEO Dr. Matthew Stephenson and Chief Adviser Nasser Al Madani. Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority Senior Deputy Administrator for Business and Investment Renato W. Lee III also joined the meeting online.

The discussions focused on opportunities for WFZO to support BCDA’s development priorities, promote the authority’s economic districts as global investment destinations and strengthen the Philippines’ participation in the international economic zone community.

The parties also discussed the possible establishment of a WFZO regional office in the Philippines and the potential hosting of a future WFZO World Congress, which would bring free zone leaders and investors from around the world to the country.

The proposed partnership aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s economic agenda of attracting investments, creating quality jobs and improving the Philippines’ competitiveness in the global economy.

WFZO has a network covering more than 1,600 free zones, special economic zones and industrial parks across 142 countries. It serves as a global platform connecting governments, businesses and industry leaders to promote trade, investment and innovation.