(18 June 2025, Manila) - The Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) said it acquired an additional 12 hectares of land in Barangay Esteves, Casiguran, Aurora to support the development of the APECO Airstrip into a commercial airport.
APECO president and chief executive Gil Taway IV signed the agreement with landowners Edward Chua Cham and Magdalena Chua Cham in Quezon City on June 17, 2025.
Under the deal, the Chua Cham family donated 5.2 hectares, representing half of the airstrip’s footprint and sold an additional 6.8 hectares to APECO.
“APECO’s capacity to expand hinges on the land we administer. This acquisition was made at 50 percent less than previous buying rates, making it highly advantageous to the government,” said Taway.
He said the Chua Cham family’s contribution reflects growing public confidence in the agency’s renewed direction under the “Bagong APECO” vision.
Chua Cham said the land transfer was their family’s way of supporting APECO’s goal of fostering inclusive growth in northeastern Luzon.
“This is our small way of contributing to nation-building. We’ve seen the commitment of APECO’s leadership to drive economic development in Aurora and hope this encourages others to support community-uplifting projects,” he said.
The planned Casiguran Airport is expected to improve accessibility and boost investments, trade and tourism in the region.
The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) conducted an inspection of the airstrip and endorsed its qualification for a permit to operate in February 2025.
“We are working closely with CAAP and other agencies to fast-track the project. The Casiguran Airport will serve not just as a gateway to Aurora but to greater opportunities for the country,” Taway said.
The original news article was first featured in the Manila Standard by Othel V. Campos. To view the article, click here.
