Aboitiz provides relief, preferential rate scheme to MEZ II firms

(Photo from Aboitiz Group)

Locators at the Mactan Economic Zone II (MEZ II) enjoyed a 50% discount on rent for five months in 2020, as the Aboitiz Group sought to ensure that operations at the ecozone will continue despite the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Aboitiz Group, through Aboitiz InfraCapital, Inc., also offered MEZ II locators a preferential rate scheme beyond their current lease term.

This offer was well received by locators, as a majority have chosen to avail themselves of an initial extension, according to Rafael Fernandez de Mesa, first vice president for the Aboitiz Integrated Economic Centers.

“As we all gradually recover from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, we remain committed in helping our partner locators get back on their feet,” Fernandez de Mesa said.

“We are hopeful that our locators will continue to show the same level of trust and commitment that Aboitiz, MCIAA, the government and the Cebuano people have shown them for the past 25 years, by choosing to extend their agreements with us for an even longer period of time,” he added.

Fernandez de Mesa said MEZ II was the only industrial development in the Philippines to provide relief to its locators through the 50% discount on rent.

The pandemic has devastated the global economy, causing corporate revenues to dive and entailing additional expenses due to the lockdowns, among others.

MEZ II, which is situated in Lapu-Lapu City on Mactan Island, is a 63-hectare mixed-use development registered with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority.

It hosts 49 industrial locators in light to medium industries that include precision instruments, medical equipment, communication and electronics, automotive supplies, apparel, and furniture.

These companies employ around 12,000 employees.

The ecozone is operated by Aboitiz InfraCapital, Inc., in partnership with the Mactan Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA).

“Rest assured that the Aboitiz Group will continue to support our locators and stakeholders by providing the highest level of service possible and uplifting our host communities, no matter what challenges may lie ahead,” De Mesa said.

To ensure minimal disruption, he said disinfection of common areas in MEZ II is regularly conducted.

A strict no face mask no entry policy is implemented, while safety reminders are posted throughout the development.

MEZ II also holds regular virtual meetings with locators regarding concerns and safety procedures, such as the reporting system, contact tracing, infection control, and other Covid-related matters. (Ventures Cebu)