(18 June 2025, Quezon City) - A major step has been undertaken by the Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) to transform its local airstrip into a commercial airport with the acquisition of 12 hectares of land in Barangay Esteves, Casiguran, Aurora. The development promises to enhance connectivity, trade, tourism, and investment in the northeastern Luzon corridor.
The ceremonial signing took place on June 17, 2025, in Quezon City, where APECO President and CEO Atty. Gil G. Taway IV formalized the land agreement with Atty. Edward Chua Cham and Mrs. Magdalena Chua Cham, who signed on behalf of their family, including Mr. George Chua Cham.
The Chua Cham family has committed to donating 5.2 hectares, which constitutes half of the present Casiguran airstrip, and selling an additional 6.8 hectares to APECO for less than the prior prices offered.
“APECO’s potential to do more depends on the amount of land we administer. In our continuing land acquisition efforts, we were left with higher rates beyond the zonal valuation. APECO, however, was able to acquire the property from the Chua Cham family at 50 percent less than the previous buying rate, which we consider highly advantageous to the government,” President and CEO Taway said.
Atty. Edward Chua Cham emphasized the national importance of the airport from the family’s perspective: “We believe that the development of the APECO Airport is not just a project for Casiguran, it is a project for the Filipino people. This is our small way of contributing to nation-building. We have seen how determined the current administration and APECO’s leadership are in driving economic development in Aurora. We hope that our gesture encourages others to support projects that aim to uplift communities and boost economic development,” he said.
Once the new airstrip is operationalized, APECO Airport is expected to be a significant linchpin for regional growth. The infrastructure at the other end will provide direct air access to Aurora, attract investments, facilitate cargo transport, and develop eco-tourism to showcase the beautiful beaches with a rich biodiversity of the said province.
Earlier this year, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) inspected the site and had initial recommendations for the issuance of a Permit to Operate (PTO), paving the way for accelerated development.
“We are working with CAAP and other key agencies to fast-track this project. The APECO Airport will not only serve as a gateway to Aurora, but it will be a gateway to new opportunities for the Philippines,” President and CEO Taway said.
The original news article was first featured in Pinoy Aksyon News. To view the article, click here.
