THE Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) said Kawasaki Motors Development Center Cebu, Inc. (KMDCI) has registered as an economic-zone information technology (IT) enterprise in Cebu.
In a social media post, PEZA said that KMDCI signed its registration agreement on April 15 to operate in Oakridge IT Center in Mandaue City.
“With the support of PEZA and its enabling business ecosystem, KMDCI is set to introduce advanced technological solutions, enhance local innovation, and contribute to a future-ready Philippine economy,” PEZA said.
PEZA Director General Tereso O. Panga said KMDCI’s operation will help boost Cebu’s standing as an IT and research and development (R&D) hub while promoting inclusive and sustainable economic development across the regions.
“It is also their way of testing the waters in preparation for the setting up of a manufacturing facility in the country,” he said via Viber.
Oakridge IT Center Towers currently hosts three locators generating 32 jobs and $884,345.66 in exports.
Aside from Kawasaki, the IT center is also expecting the entry of an US firm, DIS Tech Philippines.
According to Mr. Panga, the US company will offer knowledge-based and computer-based support services, including engineering and architectural design services, consultancy, and the design of printed circuit boards and substrate interfaces for the semiconductor industry.
In the first quarter, PEZA approved P58.947 billion worth of investment pledges, representing an almost four-fold increase from a year earlier.
It approved 66 new and expansion projects involving investment that was 294.3% higher year on year.
For this year, PEZA hopes to approve P250 billion worth of investment pledges. If realized, it would be a 16.7% increase from the P214.18-billion pledges approved in 2024. — Justine Irish D. Tabile