(28 April 2025 - Parañaque, Manila) - The Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) reaffirmed its dedication to upholding the highest standards of good governance, transparency and accountability following a successful annual exit conference conducted by the Commission on Audit (COA) last 28 April 2025 at the APECO Satellite Office in Parañaque City.
The audit was led by Supervising Auditor Director Ms. Tess Celpo Guevarra and Audit Team Leader Ms. Lannette Bautista, alongside team members Ms. Ingrid Cuento and Ms. Mely May Villanueva. Representing APECO were President and CEO Atty. Gil G. Taway IV; Deputy Administrator Mr. Angelo Gabriel D. Mantuano; Corporate Planning Division Manager Ms. Ma. Cristina G. Suaverdez; Engineering and Environmental Safety Division Manager Engr. Ryan V. Baliat; OIC-Admin Division Manager Mr. John V. Socito; Community Relations Unit Chief Ms. Luzed Ann J. Jandoc; and additional representatives Engr. Gillian Julian, Ms. Jennelyn Mamat-lalo, Ms. Lovely Lorane Esteves, Mr. Melvin Aquino, and Mr. Oscar Beynard Gilbert Gutierrez.
During the conference, APECO actively engaged in meaningful discussions with COA, addressing audit findings, clarifying specific issues, and reviewing recommended improvements aimed at enhancing financial management and governance practices.
While recognizing several findings highlighted by COA, APECO was commended for proactively implementing corrective measures to resolve previously identified concerns and demonstrating clear commitment to achieving timely and effective outcomes. APECO fully embraces the opportunity to further strengthen its processes and governance frameworks based on COA's valuable feedback.
"We acknowledge the importance of addressing each finding promptly and thoroughly," stated APECO President and CEO Atty. Gil G. Taway IV, "our commitment to good governance, transparency, and accountability is unwavering, and we remain dedicated to aligning fully with COA’s recommendations. We value COA’s meticulous guidance, and we are determined to leverage this audit to significantly improve our operational efficiency and transparency."
APECO is committed to promptly undertaking corrective actions aligned with COA’s recommendations and will regularly report on its progress to ensure continued transparency and to build public trust.
APECO expresses sincere gratitude to COA for its consistent guidance and ongoing support in fostering a culture of integrity, transparency, and fiscal responsibility within government agencies.
