The Philippine Pharma Procurement, Inc. (PPPI) and the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) have formalized a partnership to explore the establishment of pharmaceutical economic zones in Central Luzon, marking a key step toward positioning the Philippines as a regional hub for pharma manufacturing and life sciences.
The two agencies signed a memorandum of understanding on March 25 to conduct a joint feasibility study for the development of specialized pharma ecozones within the Clark Civil Aviation Complex (CCAC) in Pampanga and New Clark City in Tarlac.
The initiative aims to boost industrial activity in pharmaceutical manufacturing, medical equipment production, cold chain logistics, and research and development, in line with the Marcos administration’s push to expand ecozones, attract investments, and generate jobs outside Metro Manila.
Central to the partnership is the creation of a “factory-to-port” ecosystem that will integrate production, research, and distribution. By linking manufacturing sites with the logistics capabilities of Clark International Airport, the project seeks to reduce the country’s dependence on imported medicines while ensuring faster and more efficient delivery of healthcare products.
PPPI President and CEO Maria Blanca Kim B. Lokin said the collaboration will help build a high-tech environment where pharmaceutical research, production, and global distribution can operate in one location.
For his part, BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang said the development of pharma ecozones will strengthen the country’s healthcare supply chain, improve access to medicines, and support innovation, while also creating high-value jobs and driving inclusive economic growth.
The study will cover site identification, logistics integration, and the development of incentive frameworks to attract both global pharmaceutical firms and local manufacturers.
Once realized, the project is expected to generate thousands of skilled jobs for Filipino scientists, pharmacists, and engineers, further boosting the region’s economic and industrial growth.
