Cebu is stepping into the spotlight as the Philippines’ next industrial powerhouse. At the Cebu Industrial Summit 2025, hosted by Aboitiz Economic Estates, government and business leaders unveiled a united vision to position the province as a hub for next-generation manufacturing, innovation, and sustainable growth.
The summit, themed “Cebu: Powering the Next Wave of Philippine Industry,” brought together key figures including Governor Pamela Baricuatro, Provincial Administrator Ace Durano, PEZA Deputy Director General Maria Veronica Magsino, AboitizPower COO Anton Perdices, and Aboitiz Land President Rafael Fernandez de Mesa.
“Cebu’s foundation for the next wave of industrial growth has never been stronger,” said Fernandez de Mesa. “With its strategic location, robust infrastructure, and exceptional talent base, Cebu is primed to attract high-value, future-ready industries. Aboitiz Economic Estates is no longer simply a land developer, but a solutions provider, an enabler of enterprise and a partner in nation-building.”
Governor Baricuatro reaffirmed the province’s commitment to inclusive growth. “Our vision is to build industries that create not only profit but purpose. Transforming Cebu into a model of sustainable, human-centered development.”
Policy, Infrastructure, and Energy at the Core
The summit highlighted how policy reforms, infrastructure development, and sustainable energy solutions are converging to redefine Cebu’s industrial landscape.
- PEZA’s CREATE MORE reforms were cited as critical in strengthening investor confidence, with Cebu’s 50 ecozones already generating ₱321 billion in investments and over 217,000 jobs.
- AboitizPower pledged to ensure Cebu’s competitiveness through reliable and sustainable energy — a key factor in attracting high-value industries.
- Provincial Administrator Ace Durano stressed the government’s role in enabling infrastructure and investor-friendly policies, laying the groundwork for long-term industrial development.
World-Class Estates Driving Innovation
Cebu’s industrial momentum is anchored in its globally recognized estates:
- West Cebu Estate in Balamban continues to strengthen the country’s shipbuilding leadership, with Tsuneishi Heavy Industries recently launching the world’s first methanol-powered Kamsarmax bulk carrier.
- MEZ2 Estate in Lapu-Lapu City is expanding with Finnish-managed SAWO, now the estate’s largest locator, exporting Cebu-made sauna and steam equipment to over 80 countries.
- The Plastic Odyssey micro-factory, also in MEZ2, is pioneering circular economy practices by transforming plastic waste into reusable materials.
“These examples show how innovation, sustainability, and global competitiveness are not just ideals but realities being built right here in Cebu,” Fernandez de Mesa said.
Cebu’s Boundless Potential
While challenges remain from global market shifts to energy transitions, Cebu’s adaptability and collaborative spirit were hailed as its greatest strengths.
“The opportunities ahead are immense, but so are the challenges,” said Clifford M. Academia, Vice President for Operations of Aboitiz Economic Estates. “Global shifts, infrastructure needs, energy transitions. Yet if there’s one thing Cebu has always demonstrated, it’s the ability to adapt, collaborate, and lead.”
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