[ Manila Bulletin Online ]
By MAR T. SUPNAD
MARIVELES, Bataan -- The Bataan Economic Zone (BEZ) has been left behind in terms of development and investments.
It is also in a bad state as shown by the dilapidated roads and buildings, some of which were never used.
As a result, the economic zone has ceased to attract new investors.
Because of neglect, many locators opted to leave BEZ and transfer to other economic zones.
Rep. Abet S. Garcia (2nd district, Bataan), who sponsored a bill converting the BEZ into a special ecozone and freeport.
The eldest son of Gov. Enrique Garcia, Congressman Garcia is responding to the clamor for change in the economic zone.
He authored House Bill No. 1425, entitled "An Act Converting the Bataan Economic Zone located in the Municipality of Mariveles, Province of Bataan, into the Bataan Special Economic Zone and Freeport."
This is intended to revitalize BEZ and enable it to catch up with the other economic zones in the country.
Dr. Lamberto Yraola, 82-year-old resident here, said, "I am in fact a supporter of the bill not only because I am a witness to the continuous deterioration of BEZ but also because I believe that it is the only hope for the economic development of Mariveles as well as the whole of Bataan."
San Carlos Barangay Captain Ariel Zurita said that he has been residing in this town since birth, but up to now there is no progress at BEZ, and this was caused by the neglect by the government, particularly the Philippine Economic Zone Authority.
The bill is also supported by Mariveles Mayor Jesse Concepcion.
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