MANILA, Dec. 21 -- The Marcos administration is betting on new Special Economic Zones (SEZs) as fresh growth engines, with Malacanang hailing the latest proclamations as a push to spread investments beyond traditional business hubs and fast-track job creation.

Executive Secretary Ralph Recto said the newly declared ecozones in Paranaque, Laguna, and Misamis Oriental are designed to tap each area's competitive advantage, from digital services and innovation to agro-industrial production, while easing pressure on Metro Manila-centric growth.

"These significant areas continue to attract investors because of their strategic location, skilled workforce, good infrastructure, and reliable utilities," Recto said in a statement Sunday, adding th...