Solomon Islands taps 3 Pinoys for special economic zones

MANILA, Philippines – Three Filipino experts have been tapped by the government of the Solomon Islands to set up special economic zones in that country.

The experts were hired by the Democratic Coalition for Change Government to help finalize a bill on special economic zones in preparation for its discussion in the next Parliament in July.

The Solomon Islands prime minister’s secretariat office said Josefina Ela Bueno, Antonio Rex Chan and Jesus Vicente Magsaysay have signed a 10-week contract of employment with officials George Kosui, secretary for the ministry of commerce, industries, labor and immigration, and Henry Kuma, secretary for finance and treasury.

The ceremony was presided over by John Muria of the attorney general’s chamber and attended by Martin Husanau of the national consultant on commerce and tourism.

Kosui said their government’s task force on special economic zones welcomes the Filipino experts and is looking forward to their role in the passage of a significant legislation. 

Kosui, chair of the government task force, said the establishment of the eco-zones is a flagship policy of the Democratic Coalition for Change Government.

Chan said the team would bring with them their vast experience in special economic zones legislation.

Chan, operator of one of the largest freeport special economic zones in the Philippines, said he understands the needs of foreign investors and knows how to structure investment requirements in special economic zone legislation to entice them.

Special economic zones in the Philippines are considered economic drivers that are significant in generating jobs.

Special economic zones include the establishment of heavy and light industries and outsourcing of services for exports, tourism and business process outsourcing.

The Solomon Islands offers a different kind of product for its eco-zone program. It lacks skilled laborers due to its small population, but is abundant in land that can be consolidated and developed into a large-scale agriculture, expansive sea territory, forest products and minerals.

The Filipino experts are likely to help forge a strong synergy that can be developed by both countries.

The Philippines can benefit from the arrangement, being a major consumer of agricultural products as well as in creating overseas employment and business opportunities for Filipinos based in the island state.