Washington DC, USA - The Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) embarked on an investment mission to the United States of America (US), led by President and CEO Atty. Gil G. Taway IV. The investment promotion agency gained a staunch ally in the Philippine Ambassador to the United States, His Excellency Jose Manuel “Babe” Romualdez who expressed his full support for APECO’s new strategic direction to become the Philippines’ First National Defense Hub and other goals which include establishing itself as the Fishing Capital of Luzon, developing the region as a renewable energy center, and advancing Casiguran, Aurora as the country’s next premiere tourism destination. These new strategic directions are aligned with the priorities of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos' thrusts for national security, food security, and energy security and also reflects the agency’s commitment towards attracting more foreign direct investments.
Upon the instruction of the Ambassador, the Investment team was immediately received by the Defense and Armed Forces Attache, Colonel Roy Anthony O. Derilo, PA, and the Naval Attache, Capt James Francis P. Lugtu, PN as an initial step to link APECO to key players in the US Defense industry.
APECO provides the closest safe harbor to the Philippine Rise and remains as the only economic zone with immediate access to the Pacific Eastern Seaboard. Given the existing disputes in the West Philippine Sea, APECO stands as the logical choice for the country’s national defense agenda. Casiguran’s locational advantage coupled with natural barriers provided by the Sierra Madre Mountain Range and the San Ildefonso Peninsula makes APECO the perfect nexus of the country’s defense industry. Commercial chambers and other industries were also met by the team through the dedicated and tireless efforts of the Foreign Trade Service Corps led by Commercial Counsellor, Mr. Kenneth Yap of the Philippine Trade and Investment Center - Washington, D.C.
In addition to its focus on national security, APECO is committed to enhancing the country’s food and energy security. The Philippine Rise remains an underutilized resource which the country may benefit from when APECO realizes its vision of having its own seaport, which makes port development a top-priority project. APECO also enjoys high potential for renewable energy sources such as solar and wind. Unlocking these sources could see the economic zone providing a significant contribution towards the country’s National Renewable Energy Plan.
Besides its strategic location, APECO offers numerous advantages for investors. The economic zone is home to a high-quality workforce, known for its skills and adaptability, alongside the benefit of competitive labor costs across all markets. Investors can also take advantage of APECO’s low lease rates and long-term lease options, providing a cost-effective solution for businesses considering growth and expansion as well as those looking to extend their business continuity plans.
APECO is committed to promoting ease of doing business. The organization is dedicated to good governance, ensuring that the entry of businesses into the Philippine market is as seamless as possible. APECO’s streamlined processes and investor-friendly policies are designed to attract and retain foreign investors, such as those from the US.
APECO is located in Casiguran, Aurora and was established through Republic Act 9490, as amended by Republic Act 10083. APECO is planned to be developed into and operated as a decentralized, self-reliant and self-sustaining industrial, commercial/trading, agro-industrial, tourist, banking, financial and investment center with suitable residential areas. APECO is a government owned and controlled corporation whose purpose is to attract foreign investments, to generate jobs, and to improve social and economic conditions of the local community.
