19 September 2025, Casiguran, Aurora — As part of the Bagong APECO management’s Big Brother Leadership, the Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) continues to reskill and upskill its workforce by providing training in tourism properties operations.

APECO has selected 32 employees to be part of the APECO Tourism Properties Unit (ATPU), which will manage and operate the 20-room APECO Residences, seven two-bedroom Executive Villas, and a three-bedroom Heritage Villa. Except for the two new Executive Villas, the rest of the properties have undergone renovation since early this year.

To gear up for the grand reopening of its tourism facilities, APECO held a one-day intensive training designed to provide its tourism team with practical, hands-on knowledge of hotel management and operations under its Big Brother Series last Aug.14, followed by hotel operation immersion at Costa Pacifica—Baler’s first high-end resort—from Sep.5 to 7 and from Sep.12 to 14.

On Aug.14, Costa Pacifica General Manager Mr. Chris Orta provided the leadership training covering leadership principles, team management, and guest engagement, while Human Resource and Training Manager Ms. Zenaida Piano conducted the hotel operations training, discussing essential operational areas such as reservations, front office, housekeeping, and bell services to APECO employees.

The following month, APECO employees participated in hands-on training at Costa Pacifica, where they were immersed in actual hotel operations. The program covered key functions such as front office management, reservations, housekeeping, food and beverage services, and guest relations. Working alongside experienced hotel staff, participants moved beyond observation to actively taking part in day-to-day tasks, helping them apply what they’ve learned and build practical skills essential for their roles.

"Upskilling our team through initiatives like the Big Brother Series is a vital step in preparing for the launch of our tourism properties," said APECO President and CEO Atty. Gil G. Taway IV. "By investing in our people, we’re ensuring that local communities are ready to take on new opportunities in tourism, which can drive livelihood and sustainable growth for the DiCaDi (Dinalungan-Casiguran-Dilasag) area."

The tourism properties are central to APECO’s strategy of using its geographic location and natural attractions to draw visitors while creating economic opportunities. APECO is branding the development as a destination “Where the Pacific meets paradise,” positioning Casiguran as a gateway for visitors seeking a mix of coastal scenery and mountain landscapes.

With training underway and infrastructure improvements on track, APECO is moving closer to reopening its Residences and Villas by October—a step expected to boost both tourism and local employment in northern Aurora.

“Our priority is to start operations smoothly and provide reliable service to our guests. As our team gains experience, we can continue to improve and expand over time,” APECO Business Development and Marketing Manager Gene Angelo P. Ferrer, who will also serve as the ATPU General Manager.