THE Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) said Gokongwei-led Universal Robina Corp. (URC) has opened a P2.75-billion manufacturing facility in Malvar, Batangas as it seeks to further expand its export-oriented operations while supporting domestic demand. In a social media post last week, PEZA said URC’s megaplant was inaugurated on July 31, aligning with the food and beverage producer’s 70th anniversary. It follows the PEZA Board’s approval of URC’s ecozone development and manufacturing projects in 2025, with an initial investment worth P2.75 billion. The Batangas facility enables URC to further expand its export-oriented operations while continuing to serve the domestic market, the agency said. The inauguration of URC’s Batangas plant 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 URC and JG Summit Holdings, Inc. officials and staff members.