In Photo: Atty. Gil G. Taway IV, President and Chief Executive Officer, and Mr. Ruel Villaluna, President and Chief Executive Officer
(10 March 2025, Parañaque) Verdant TerraForm Inc. has long been looking for a location where they can import used cooking oil and process it into biodiesel in the Philippines. Their extensive search has led them to explore business opportunities with the Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) due to its strategic location as the country’s sole gateway to the Pacific. This logistical advantage presents a unique opportunity for Verdant’s importation needs.
As a potential locator, President and Chief Executive Officer Ruel Villaluna of Verdant TerraForm Inc. has expressed strong interest in locating within APECO, emphasizing that the economic zone is well-suited for Verdant’s operational needs. He further explained that importing is only a part of the company’s full-scale operation as they also envision developing a processing facility that will transform used cooking oil into biodiesel, an eco-friendly alternative fuel source.
The planned facility is expected to generate local employment opportunities which will boost economic activity in the region and positively contribute to the country’s growing interest in seeking alternative fuel. With Casiguran’s proximity to key transport hubs and the availability of natural resources, APECO presents an ideal location for such ventures.
Furthermore, the importation of used cooking oil for biodiesel production could establish Casiguran as a hub for alternative fuel processing. This investment has the potential to create new supply chain opportunities that will involve local businesses in logistics, refinement, and distribution. The environmental benefits of biodiesel, including reduced carbon emissions and decreased reliance on fossil fuels, further support APECO’s commitment in implementing environmental stewardship in its push for development.
As discussions continue to progress, APECO is scheduling the official signing for the Letter of Cooperation with Verdant TerraForm Inc. The entry of Verdant TerraForm Inc. into the economic zone would mark another step toward making APECO a center for sustainable energy production.
