(8 June 2025, Manila) - The Commission on Audit (COA) has recognized the Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) for showing “a shift from past inaction” and laying the groundwork for sustained development through the completion of long-overdue infrastructure projects.
In its 2025 Audit Observation Memorandum, COA cited APECO’s infrastructure initiatives as critical steps in transforming the ecozone into an investment-ready hub.
According to APECO’s recent statement, three key projects were completed in less than a year—namely, the initial phase of the Sewage Treatment Plant, the Fire Station, and the Central Water Supply and Reservoir (CSWR) Project—amounting to a total of P100 million.
“These infrastructure achievements are not only structural. They are symbolic. They represent our renewed focus on tangible progress—progress that directly impacts the lives of our people and the confidence of our investors,” said APECO president and CEO Atty. Gil Taway IV.
APECO also reclaimed its administration building, previously occupied by a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO), allowing its employees to move out of container van offices.
Other near-complete projects include Phase 2 of both the CSWR and the Underground Power Distribution Lines (UPDL), which will provide stable utility services for future locators. The UPDL system is designed to be more disaster-resilient and reliable.
To attract industrial and tech-based investors, APECO is also finalizing ready-for-occupancy office units. Meanwhile, it is expanding into tourism and community-building initiatives, with developments such as a refurbished Boat Café, beachfront Dome Tent, and the forthcoming Grand Lagoon Project.
Previously underutilized assets like executive villas and APECO Residences have been temporarily reopened, earning nearly P200,000 in revenue in a single month before being closed again for rehabilitation.
The relocation of APECO’s Manila satellite office to Parqal in Parañaque City has already yielded P1.45 million in savings, with an additional P5.3 million in projected savings once the new office becomes fully operational.
“These completed and ongoing projects demonstrate to our stakeholders, especially potential investors, that APECO is open for business and ready to support sustainable, long-term development,” said Atty. Taway.
He added that the agency’s infrastructure push supports President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s development priorities, particularly in food, energy, and national security.
“Every pipe laid and beam raised is part of a bigger story. We’re building more than infrastructure—we’re building trust, opportunity, and a better future for Aurora,” Atty. Taway said.
The original news article was first featured in The Market Monitor. To view the original article, click here.
