ALSONS Group is looking to expand its agro-industrial footprint with a new ecozone in Mindanao, the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) said.

"As a growth driver of business and industries, Alsons Group plays a key role in fueling the development, particularly of Mindanao, through its strategic investments in industrial parks and real estate development, agri/aqua business, power generation and mining," PEZA said in a statement on Friday.The proposed 50-hectare ecozone would be located in the conglomerate's 1,000-hectare pineapple and banana plantation in Barangay Apopong, General Santos City, Sarangani province, and will serve to boost the region's agro-industrial sector.According to PEZA, the planned expansion will be submitted for approval though no data is given yet regarding investments."As we embark on this journey of eco-zoning the Philippines toward inclusive and sustainable development, PEZA shall continue to support countryside development through the creation of more economic zones in rural and new growth areas," said PEZA Director General Tereso Panga.PEZA also visited the Kamanga Agro-Industrial Ecozone (Kaiez), also in Sarangani, to check on its operations and status of locator companies.Alsons' unit Kamanga Agro-Industrial Ecozone Development Corp. also applied for a 32.8-hectare expansion in Kaiez. Its application is currently pending in the Office of the President.The visit is part of the agency's strict monitoring and consultation process with its valued ecozone investors to ensure PEZA's prompt delivery of services."With the growth prospects of ecozones and industries in Maasim and Sarangani Province, there is no doubt that these LGUs (local government units) will soon make it among the richest and most progressive areas in the country," Panga said.