Manigong bagong taon sa lahat!
I would like to begin this message by expressing my gratitude to the Board of Directors of APECO. I pray that I may humbly offer my skill and dedication towards the progress of the DiCaDi area, the Province of Aurora, and the Filipino people.
In taking over this role, I asked myself two things: what can I bring to the table and more importantly what future can I see for APECO. To answer the first question, I bring an inclusive and consultative manner of management, this is not my kingdom, for I am no king, I am a humble steward entrusted to grow and develop the Ecozone and I vow to remain open to everyone so that my tenure shall be one of shared prosperity.
As to the second and more difficult question, I had to begin by looking at why APECO was initially conceived, what APECO has achieved until present, and what I believe APECO can accomplish. APECO is an area with so much promise. While ecotourism remains a part of our identity, we plan to add other growth pillars to catalyze rapid development in the area. Under my management, we shall support the programs of the Marcos Administration to contribute to food security, energy security, and the national security as a whole by supporting the defense industry sector.
My team and I reviewed what initially was identified as target industries for initial investors, we reconsidered existing locators, and we planned the way forward. While there is infinite potential, we must still focus our time and energies on the most efficient and effective route of finding results and steering progress.
Towards Food Security we have identified the Casiguran Sound and its access to the Philippine Rise as an untapped natural resource that can support the cultivation of a strong fishing and fish processing industry. Regarding Energy Security, while the infrastructure is continuously being built considering our location we have identified that APECO can be the heart of the Philippine green energy revolution. We will explore the potential for wind, hydro, solar, and other forms of energy that can supply the ever-growing demand not only of the area but of the country as a whole.
Finally, the strategic location of our Ecozone safely tucked behind the Sierra Madre mountain range offers a blank and secure canvas where a highly sophisticated industry that supports our gallant Armed Forces, National Police, and other security sector partners can grow and flourish. We envision APECO to be the first Defense Hub of the country where we can help bolster and support any effort our country and our key allies may need.
2024 marks 17 years for APECO and by 2027 APECO would continue to make its mark for the Philippines.
Mabuhay ang Pilipinas! Mabuhay ang APECO!