The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) has announced that Universal Robina Corp. (URC), the food and beverage arm of the Gokongwei-led JG Summit Holdings, Inc., has opened a P2.75-billion manufacturing facility in Malvar, Batangas, aimed at expanding the company's export-oriented operations while continuing to serve the domestic market.

In a social media post last week, PEZA said URC's megaplant was inaugurated on July 31, coinciding with the food and beverage producer's 70th anniversary. The project follows the PEZA Board's approval in 2025 of URC's ecozone development and manufacturing projects, carrying an initial investment of P2.75 billion.

PEZA said the Batangas facility will allow URC to scale up its export-oriented operations while maintaining its presence in the domestic market. Companies registered with PEZA typically qualify for fiscal incentives, including income tax holidays and duty-free importation of capital equipment, which reduce operating costs for export-oriented manufacturers.

"Once the ecozone is proclaimed and the new manufacturing facility becomes operational, the project is expected to enhance URC's production capabilities, particularly for its well-known snack products, strengthen supply chain efficiency, generate quality employment opportunities for residents of Batangas and neighboring communities, and contribute to the country's export competitiveness," PEZA said.

The expansion comes as manufacturers ramp up local production capacity to meet growing domestic and foreign demand amid global supply chain pressures. Batangas, already host to major industrial estates and a deep-sea port, has become one of the country's key manufacturing corridors, offering connectivity to both Metro Manila markets and regional export routes.

"PEZA remains committed to supporting homegrown Filipino companies like URC as they continue to expand, innovate, and strengthen the Philippines' position as a premier investment and manufacturing destination," said PEZA Director-General Tereso O. Panga.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by URC Chairman Lance Y. Gokongwei, URC President and Chief Executive Officer Irwin C. Lee, Mr. Panga, Malvar City Mayor Artemio M. Abu, several local government officials, and other representatives from URC and JG Summit Holdings, Inc.

URC, one of the largest packaged food companies in Southeast Asia, is known for brands such as C2, Jack 'n Jill, and Great Taste. The company recently reported a 10% increase in its second-quarter core net income attributable to the parent, reaching P2.9 billion, with revenues up 4% in the first half of the year.

On Friday, URC shares closed at P61.85 apiece.

— Beatriz Marie D. Cruz