By Liza Soriano

MANILA — The Senate approved on third and final reading on Monday (March 18, 2024) the bill creating the Bulacan Special Economic Zone and Freeport.

The bill garnered 22 affirmative votes, with no negative votes or abstentions. Senator Grace Poe, Chairperson of the Committee on Economic Affairs and sponsor of Senate Bill No. 2572, praised the Senate’s approval of the measure.

Poe emphasized that SBN 2572 was carefully crafted to balance economic growth and environmental protection, while also ensuring greater representation for local government units covered by the proposed ecozone.

“It will stimulate investments, generate more employment opportunities, and serve as a model not only in the Philippines but also throughout Asia… With this measure, the people of Bulacan and the entire country can anticipate a world-class economic zone that we can all take pride in,” Poe stated.

(el Amigo/MNM)