2 February 2024 | Tanauan, Batangas

A pleasant Friday morning to all! Ohayo gozaimasu!

First and foremost, I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to Brother Industries Philippines, third expansion here in the Philippine Economic Zone Authority’s (PEZA) flourishing special economic zone—the First Philippine Industrial Park (FPIP).

This milestone embodies the promise of “At Your Side,” which is deeply embedded in the name of this esteemed company. Beyond upgrading physical facilities, this third factory is a convergence of shared cultures and values of brotherhood and pakikisama.

Just as brothers stand together, Brother Industries Philippines, joins us in our collective journey toward a more robust and more vibrant Philippine economy. For 12 years now, Brother Industries Philippines, has been a pillar of our manufacturing sector, employing over 9,000 Filipino workers, and contributing significantly to our local and global supply chains. As one of the PEZA locators, Brother Industries Philippines, plays a vital role in firmly positioning the Philippines as a premier investment destination.

Furthermore, the expansion of Brother Industries Philippines marks another milestone toward producing more high-caliber and globally competitive printer products and consumables. This further exemplifies the company’s dedication to delivering technological and sustainable solutions for the constantly evolving manufacturing and printing industry in the world.

In the midst of global economic challenges, this third factory expansion demonstrates the company’s unwavering confidence in the Philippines. It speaks volumes about the effectiveness of our efforts to boost the economy through high-quality employment and big-ticket investments. We are actively showcasing our skilled workforce, strategic location, and generous investment incentives to the world, tailoring opportunities to fit the needs of global investors such as Brother Industries.

Through strategic Free Trade Agreements, we are tearing down walls and opening doors, granting preferential access to vast markets for products and services.

Additionally, we are actively dismantling the bureaucratic labyrinth in our country that can hinder businesses with the implementation of the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises, or CREATE Law. This law reduced corporate income tax, streamlined tax administration, and provided various incentives.

To create a conducive business environment, the Department of Trade and Industry, my department, also launched transformative initiatives aligned with the Ease of Doing Business Act. The DTI now has online services platforms, which simplify processes, embrace digital solutions, and create a one-stop for business registration. This also establish a green lane to facilitating strategic investments both for global investors and foreign investors.

Initiatives like the CREATE Law and the Ease of Doing Business underscore the commitment of our government in fostering a competitive and conducive investment ecosystem that fuels economic progress. The DTI fully supports businesses in their vision for continued growth and expansion. We are committed to providing a supportive and enabling environment for companies like Brother Industries Philippines to thrive and flourish.

Once again, I commend Brother Industries Philippines for this remarkable expansion. May your esteemed company continue its excellent partnership with PEZA and your productive participation in the Philippine manufacturing sector for the years to come.

Let us carry on the values of brotherhood for they are the very foundation upon which we build as a sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous future for all.

Here’s to more economic victories and triumphs of the Filipino spirit!

With Brother Industries Philippines, at your side, let’s work together as we approach Bagong Pilipinas. ♦

Date of release: 02 February 2024