(4 August 2025, Casiguran, Aurora) — The Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) is showing that caring for its people is just as important as fulfilling its economic mandate, with the management providing two sets of new uniforms, including barongs, to its Contract of Service (COS) employees as a gesture of support and respect for its workforce.
The initiative reflects the leadership style of President and Chief Executive Officer (PCEO) Atty. Gil G. Taway IV, who believes that employees are the heart of APECO.
When PCEO Taway assumed office, he noticed that some employees reported to work in their everyday wear. Rather than enforcing strict policies from the start, PCEO Taway chose patience and understanding, a “Big Brother” approach focused on building trust and mutual respect.
“I chose not to immediately impose strict house rules because I wanted to understand their situation first. We focused instead on more concrete management actions that would inspire them and help build trust. After one year of working together, I explained why looking presentable matters, because how we dress is a reflection of how we value our work and the institution we represent,” he said.
The uniform program also recognizes the financial realities faced by employees. With limited salaries, acquiring several sets of uniforms at once can be a challenge. To address this, the members of the Executive Committee of APECO contributed to provide the initial two sets of uniforms at no cost to the employees.
Leading the distribution of uniforms were Admin and Finance Department Manager Rexzon M. Balacano, Engineering and Environmental Safety Division Manager Engr. Ryan V. Baliat, and Corporate Planning Division Manager Ma. Cristina G. Suaverdez.
During the rollout, employees voluntarily committed to shoulder the cost of their additional two sets, completing a four-day uniform rotation schedule.
Currently, APECO has 150 COS employees.
With their newly provided uniforms, the APECO management hopes that employees will take pride in wearing their uniforms, which symbolize their shared identity and professionalism as members of the APECO family.
“This is not just about uniforms,” Taway emphasized. “This is about showing our people that APECO is here to support them, guide them, and help them put their best foot forward—not just for work, but for their own growth as individuals.”
With this initiative, APECO underscores that its mission goes beyond economic development, but includes creating a workplace where people feel valued, respected, and inspired to excel.
