New Bulacan Special Economic Zone Law Set to Boost Development in Central Luzon and Northern Metro Manila

BULACAN – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has allowed the bill establishing the Bulacan Special Economic Zone and Freeport to become law, setting the stage for accelerated economic development in Bulacan province, Central Luzon, and areas north of Metro Manila. This strategic move is anticipated to help decongest the National Capital Region (NCR) by spreading economic growth across these regions.

According to Philippines News Agency, the establishment of this zone under Republic Act (RA) No. 11999 could trigger significant shifts in migration patterns for workers and businesses, while potentially easing congestion at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). Rodriguez, a key author of the legislation, emphasized the anticipated economic benefits during a news release on Sunday. He pointed out that the upcoming new airport within the economic zone could become a new major gateway, alleviating traffic at NAIA.

San Miguel Corp. (SMC), a major stakeholder in the development, has been instrumental in pushing for the law as it prepares to construct the New Manila International Airport in Bulakan town. The law outlines that the Freeport will include both the airport and a surrounding airport city development, with SMC also proposing a network of expressways to connect the area effectively.

Under the new law, the Bulacan Special Economic Zone and Freeport Authority will be established to manage the zone, which must be organized within 180 days following the enactment of RA 11999. The Freeport management, in consultation with the National Economic and Development Authority, is tasked with establishing a comprehensive land use, planning, and development framework consistent with the Philippine Development Plan.