By E.H. EDEJER | July 4, 2026

FREEPORT AREA OF BATAAN — A South Korean blockchain and financial technology company has committed to pursue real estate, tourism, and recreation-oriented projects in this free port, the Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB) announced late Wednesday, July 1.

Finora Global Inc., holder of a provisional Offshore Digital Assets License (ODAL) at the Bataan freeport, has proposed a 9-hole golf course and clubhouse, residential villas, and medium-rise condominium buildings here, said AFAB Administrator and CEO Hussein P. Pangandaman.

The projects will be undertaken by Finora Technologies Ltd., the development and investment subsidiary of Finora Global.

Pangandaman said the proposed developments will catalyze more tourism, recreation, hospitality, and lifestyle-related projects here, while supporting local employment, visitor activity, and additional demand for construction, accommodation, and service-sector activities.

In particular, Finora’s golf course, which is designed to accommodate both daytime and evening play, “is expected to introduce a distinctive leisure and tourism offering within the FAB,” Pangandaman said.

“AFAB welcomes Finora Global Inc.’s commitment, through Finora Technologies Limited, to pursue a concrete development project that may contribute to the Freeport’s growth as an investment, tourism, and recreation destination,” he added.

Pangandaman and other AFAB officials have joined the launching of Finora Global’s digital integrated financial platform at the World K-Pop Center in Seoul, South Korea on June 25.

In his congratulatory message in said event, Pangandaman emphasized AFAB’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with responsible investors, development partners, and international stakeholders interested in contributing towards the growth of the Bataan freeport.

The AFAB chief also reiterated that Finora’s proposals will be subject to proper documentation, registration, approvals, and compliance with applicable requirements.

AFAB remains the only investment promotion agency in the country that is legally empowered to license enterprises engaged in fintech, blockchain, and other emerging technology sectors Under Republic Act 11453.

The Authority granted Finora Technologies a provisional Class 1 and 2 ODAL in December 2026. In February this year, AFAB officials conducted an on-site probity check at Finora Global’s headquarters in Gangnam, Seoul to assess the firm’s operational readiness and internal systems supporting ODAL regulated activities. ▲

COVER PHOTO: AFAB Administrator and CEO Hussein P. Pangandaman (right) and AFAB Office of the Administrator Group head Percival B. Peralta grace the launch of Finora Global’s digital financial platform in Seoul on June 25. (AFAB photo)