COA Recognizes Infrastructure Turnaround at APECO: A Commitment to Progress and Development
The Commission on Audit (COA) has highlighted significant progress made by the Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO), marking a pivotal shift in its development trajectory. The recent 2024 Audit Observation Memorandum recognized APECO’s infrastructure projects as a key element in its transformation from previous inaction to a sustainable, investment-ready ecozone. Through the completion of long-delayed infrastructure initiatives, APECO is on track to create a more consistent foundation for the region’s growth, development, and long-term prosperity.
In a recent statement, APECO emphasized that its infrastructure push was a critical step toward realizing its vision of becoming a premier destination for both local and international investors. This renewed focus on tangible progress represents more than just the completion of buildings and projects; it reflects a collective effort to foster an environment where communities thrive, businesses flourish, and sustainable growth is prioritized.
Key Infrastructure Developments: Symbolizing Change and Progress
One of the most notable aspects of APECO’s recent achievements is the completion of three crucial infrastructure projects, which have collectively amounted to PHP100 million. The completed projects include the initial phase of the Sewage Treatment Plant (STP), the Fire Station, and the Central Water Supply and Reservoir (CSWR) Project. These were delivered within less than a year, showcasing APECO’s commitment to efficiency and the rapid realization of its objectives.
Gil Taway IV, APECO’s President and CEO, noted that these projects are not just structural—they are deeply symbolic. They represent a renewed focus on tangible progress that directly impacts the lives of residents and increases investor confidence. By laying the groundwork for a more robust ecozone infrastructure, APECO is preparing to welcome new business ventures and unlock opportunities for future growth. These efforts also align with national development goals, contributing to the broader objectives set forth by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., especially in areas critical to national security, such as food, energy, and infrastructure development.
Plans for Future Growth: Expanding and Strengthening the Infrastructure
APECO’s infrastructure vision goes beyond just the recently completed projects. Several initiatives are currently in progress, including Phase 2 of the CSWR and Underground Power Distribution Lines (UPDL), both of which are nearing completion. The UPDL is particularly notable for its design, which ensures a more reliable and disaster-resilient power infrastructure for the ecozone—a critical consideration for both industrial and technological locators looking for a stable and secure environment for their operations.
In addition, APECO is in the process of completing ready-for-occupancy and ready-for-fit-out office units, further enhancing its appeal to industrial and tech-based locators. These office units will provide a conducive space for businesses to operate, ensuring that the necessary infrastructure and facilities are available to support a wide range of industries.
APECO is also exploring opportunities in tourism and community development. The refurbished Boat Café and beachfront Dome Tent, along with the upcoming Grand Lagoon Project, signal the authority’s commitment to creating a more vibrant and diversified economic zone. This focus on tourism infrastructure is in line with the authority’s broader vision of creating a well-rounded and sustainable environment that supports both business and leisure.
Maximizing Resources and Generating Revenue
APECO’s commitment to infrastructure development extends to optimizing underutilized assets, generating additional revenue, and ensuring sustainable operations. For example, executive villas and APECO Residences, previously underused, were temporarily reopened, generating nearly PHP200,000 in revenues in just one month. While these assets are being temporarily closed for rehabilitation, the potential for future revenue generation is clear.
The relocation of APECO’s Manila satellite office to Parqal in Parañaque City has also proven to be a strategic decision. This move has already led to PHP1.45 million in savings, with further expected savings of PHP5.3 million once the new satellite office is fully operational. This initiative reflects APECO’s focus on efficiency and cost-effectiveness, key elements in its strategy to transform the ecozone into a more competitive and sustainable entity.
APECO’s Vision: Building More Than Just Infrastructure
Beyond the physical structures, APECO’s broader infrastructure push is part of a comprehensive strategy aimed at fostering a fully functional, investor-ready ecosystem. Gil Taway IV emphasized that every infrastructure improvement, whether a new building, road, or utility, is part of a larger narrative focused on building trust, opportunity, and a better future for Aurora and its residents. APECO’s developments are aligned with national security priorities, contributing to the nation’s efforts to ensure food security, energy resilience, and broader economic stability.
APECO’s recent successes demonstrate its readiness to support long-term, sustainable development. By laying the foundation for a thriving, well-connected ecozone, APECO is not only improving infrastructure but also investing in the community’s future, boosting investor confidence, and providing essential services for the region’s population. These efforts reflect a deep commitment to making Aurora a competitive and dynamic hub for business, technology, and tourism.
The original news article was first featured on Lead Media by Oliver Bugarin. To view the article, please click here.
