About APECO

The Legal Foundation of APECO: RA 9490 and RA 10083

The Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) was created under Republic Acts (RA) No. 9490, or the Aurora Special Economic Zone Act of 2007, and No.10083, or the Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Act of 2010.

The laws mandated APECO to drive economic growth in Aurora Province by developing 12,923 hectares of land in its northern municipalities of Dinalungan, Casiguran, and Dilasag (DiCaDi). and by operating the ecozone as a decentralized, self-reliant and self-sustaining industrial, commercial/trading, agro-industrial, tourist, banking, financial and investment center with suitable residential areas.

As an Investment Promotion Agency (IPA), APECO provides generous tax incentives and streamlined business registration, making it easier and more rewarding for enterprises to establish and grow within the ecozone. As a Government-Owned and Controlled Corporation (GOCC), APECO has the flexibility to enter into joint ventures and innovative partnership models with private investors, government agencies, and local communities. This dual mandate enables APECO to attract investments while actively driving the sustainable development of its coverage area.

To attract local and foreign investors, APECO is responsible to build and manage essential infrastructure such as transportation, telecommunications, and other support facilities, either on its own or through partnerships and agreements, that will help in establishing related industries and generate jobs for Aurora and neighboring communities.

APECO aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s agenda on food, energy, and national security by positioning these sectors at the core of its strategic direction through the L.I.F.E+ campaign (Location, Infrastructure, Food Security, Energy Security, plus industries such as defense), while staying true to its mandate of driving economic growth through tourism.

Republic Act No. 9490 (2007): The Beginning

RA 9490, or the Aurora Special Economic Zone Act of 2007, created APECO as a government-owned and controlled corporation tasked with managing a special economic zone in Casiguran, Aurora with an approximate land area of 496 hectares known as Parcel 1 of APECO.

Capitalization of PHP10 billion (capital stock of one billion no-par value shares at a minimum of P10 apiece) from the National Government and local government units (LGUs) within APECO;

Established APECO as a one-stop shop for business registration and permits;

Gave APECO tax and duty-free importation privileges;

Provided locators income tax holidays and other fiscal incentives;

Special APECO privilege to issue Investors and Workers Visa for qualified foreign executives and workers.

Republic Act No. 10083 (2010): Expansion and Strengthening

Three years later, RA 10083—also known as the Aurora Special Economic Zone Act of 2010—amended and expanded the original law giving APECO its Freeport status. Further this law added 12,247 hectares of managed land located in the San Ildefonso Peninsula known as Parcel 2 of APECO.

Granted APECO freeport status, operating as a separate customs and taxation territory;

Defined the land coverage of APECO—496 hectares for Parcel 1 and 12,427 hectares for Parcel 2;

Authorized APECO, either directly or through partnerships, to establish, operate, maintain, and regulate public utilities, services, and infrastructure within the ecozone;

Extended the validity of working visas for foreign executives and employees from two (2) years to three (3) years, renewable thereafter;

Enjoyment of benefits of other ecozones and free trade zones.

This progression means confidence—APECO is not only legally recognized but also continuously supported and enhanced by national legislation. With a larger development area, attractive incentives, and direct access to the Pacific, APECO is positioned as a strategic gateway for investment in the Philippines and beyond.

Location

The Gateway to the Pacific

APECO is located in the Municipality of Casiguran, Province of Aurora in Region 3 (Central Luzon) of the Philippines, 357 kilometers northeast of the countries capital, Manila.

APECO is strategically located between the Sierra Madre mountain range to the west and the San Ildefonso Peninsula to the east, with the Pacific Ocean beyond. Its unique geographic position provides natural protection and resilience against extreme weather. The Sierra Madre serves as a shield against the southwest monsoon, while the San Ildefonso Peninsula helps buffer strong winds and storms from the Pacific. This natural defense system creates a safe and stable environment for businesses, making APECO an ideal location for investment, operations, and long-term growth.

With direct access to the Pacific Ocean, APECO positions itself as the country’s Gateway to the Pacific — an alternative transshipment hub closer to major Asia-Pacific and North American markets, while complementing and decongesting ports on the western seaboard

Getting to APECO

APECO is accessible via a land route through Nueva Ecija and the Aurora Province, offering travelers a journey through the Sierra Madre’s lush mountain passes. From Metro Manila, it takes approximately 7 to 8 hours by private vehicle, covering about 350 kilometers. The drive, though lengthy, offers breathtaking views of forests, rivers, and coastal landscapes—highlighting the natural beauty surrounding APECO’s location in Casiguran, Aurora.

By Helicopter (Rotary Wing)

For executives and investors seeking the most direct access, helicopter travel offers the quickest connection. A flight from Metro Manila to APECO by helicopter takes roughly 1 to 1.5 hours, landing directly within the ecozone. This option is increasingly popular for site visits, inspections, and high-level business travel.

By Air (Private Charter - Fixed Wing Turbo Propeller)

For a faster and more efficient route, APECO can be reached by private chartered flights from Metro Manila. From Metro Manila, a direct flight to Casiguran takes just about 30 to 45 minutes. The APECO Airport with a 1,320-meter airstrip is capable of accommodating small to medium-sized aircraft, making it ideal for business and logistics-oriented travel.

For your travel to APECO via air, please coordinate with our team as chartered flights are limited to a strict two-week lead time for processing to allow relevant authorities to issue the necessary permits for each landing and for coordination with the Bureau of Fire Protection and Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group.