LEGAZPI CITY – The Catanduanes State University (CatSU) led the groundbreaking ceremony for the establishment of the agro-industrial economic zone and the knowledge, innovations, science and technology (KIST) park, Thursday, May 25.
The said event marked a crucial development in the economic growth and progress of Catanduanes.
Director General Tereso O. Panga of Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) emphasized the importance of economic zones in creating job opportunities for the Catanduangons, increasing the revenues of the local government units (LGU), and attracting foreign companies.
“And this is why we are excited at the prospects [of] foreign companies locating in the economic zone [and] job opportunities open for graduates of CatSU so they don’t need to go to Manila [and] uplifting the economic life of the people of Catanduanes,” Panga said during the ceremony.
Panga also congratulated the president of CatSU, Patrick Alain Azanza, for their shared vision in establishing the economic zone
“In just over a year, the dream of converting this prime land here in CatSU into [an] economic zone and other agro-industrial economic zone is now a reality…a reality that will eventually change the future of the whole province of Catanduanes and 263,000 residents,” Panga said.
Catanduanes Governor Joseph Cua also hoped that this milestone would create a powerful synergy that fosters economic growth, job opportunities and sustainable development in the province.
“By facilitating agro processing and agro business ventures within the zones, we empower locals to enhance their economic well being,” Cua said.
He also highlighted the integration of technology and agriculture which not only enhances productivity but also cultivates a more resilient and sustainable food system; and remain competitive in the midst of fast-paced change.
Meanwhile, the lone district representative of Catanduanes, Congressman Eulogio Rodriguez, also commended the leadership of Azanza in contributing to the economic independence of Catanduanes.
Rodriguez also expressed his thanks to PEZA for supporting their economic plans and strategies that Catanduangon would benefit from.
The said event was attended by CatSU key officials and several government authorities from different agencies across the region. I Nicole Frilles
Photos: Bicolano Man