(18 March 2025 - BGC, Taguig City)  — With a promise to turnaround the once non-performing investment promotion agency, the Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) carried out its mandate with the signing of two local investors in Central Sierra Hotels Resorts, Inc. (CSHRI) and TGV Development Corporation (TGVDC). After months of negotiations and collaborative discussions, both companies have signed lease and investment agreements with APECO ushering in the era of industry development for the Casiguran-based economic zone. Purposely building to become the country’s next premiere tourism destination, APECO is expecting a minimum investment of approximately P145M from CSHRI who is planning to build eighty (80) villas with ten (10) designed as luxury accommodations, and a small marina berth facilities capable to handle boats with sizes from 10 to 35 ft. Towards APECO’s direction to be the Fishing Capital of the Pacific, TGVDC has earmarked P40M as an initial investment to construct an ice plant, a cold storage facility, a food processing center, and docking and boat facilities that can also be used for tourism activities.

“The direction is clear from the beginning: turn APECO around,” said APECO President and CEO Atty. Gil G. Taway IV, “APECO should be the catalyst of economic development for Aurora. The entry of CSHRI and TGVDC reflect the confidence in APECO’s current leadership and strategic direction, moreover the belief that Aurora has immense economic potential which is ready to be realized. The future of Aurora is bright, and we are excited to share this journey with investors and locators who have faith in our collective future.”

Under the leadership of PCEO Taway, the investment promotion agency is poised to deliver on its untapped potential and attract local and foreign investments that will drive sustainable economic development, create jobs, and uplift local communities. Since his appointment, APECO has taken on new strategic directions which reflect President Ferdinand Marcos’ thrusts of security in three fronts: national defense, food, and energy. Promising to become a beacon for investment in the Philippines, APECO has likewise been searching for partners to develop the APECO Airport and the Casiguran Seaport.

“Aurora has long been on our radar but it was only with PCEO Taway’s administration that we were convinced that the economic zone is ready for business,” said CSHRI and TGVDC representative Mr. Rene G. Tayag, “we have been monitoring the developments within APECO and we are impressed with what its current management have achieved in such a short period of time: investing in critical and support infrastructures, regaining the trust of the local community, and most importantly, committing to a transparent and honest way of doing business.”

With APECO leadership’s unwavering commitment to progress, it is now poised to become a major player in the regional and national economic landscape for Aurora and the Philippines. The collaboration between the new investors and APECO promises to be a model for potential locators who seek an environment that encourages business, innovation, and sustainable development for generations to come.

The signings are not only a victory for APECO but also a testament to the resilience and determination of the people of Aurora. With APECO’s new strategic direction, the region now has an exciting opportunity to realize its full potential. The future is bright, and the possibilities are endless as APECO embarks on this new chapter of growth, innovation, and prosperity.

The Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) is poised to release in April its updated master plan with a focus on defense manufacturing, agro-processing and tourism.

In an interview on the sidelines of the inauguration of the Authority’s new office in Parañaque City on March 13, APECO president and chief executive officer (CEO) Gil Taway IV said the zone has been attracting locators in the defense and aviation sectors which will support the master plan’s vision to make the area a defense hub.

Taway said the APECO’s master plan will be aligned with the government’s goal of achieving food security, energy security and national security, as the zone was previously focused solely on agro-processing and light industries.

He noted the development of the airport, manufacture of aircraft as well as warehousing of military supplies as some of the prospective investments.

Taway said he met with Portugal honorary consul Ramon Garcia Jr. on March 10 to discuss Portuguese firm Amadeus’ interest to develop the airport to accommodate bigger aircraft for commercial and tourism purposes over the long term.

APECO will be a joint venture partner and will handle the right-of-way as well as expansion of the air strip, Taway said. As an initial step to accommodate chartered flights, APECO is in the process of obtaining a permit to operate from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, he added. He said APECO will also invest in air navigation and air traffic systems.

In defense manufacturing, Taway said American firm Anglicotech, which also operates in Subic, plans to set up in a 5-hectare area in APECO warehouses that will store meals ready-to-eat for US troops in Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement sites as well disaster relief supplies. He did not provide details except to say he has met with Anglicotech’s officials twice in 2024 to discuss the plans.

In a separate interview also on March 13, Raymond Mitra, Philippine Aeronautical Development Corp. (PADC) president and CEO, bared plans to set up its aircraft manufacturing facility in APECO.
Mitra said PADC’s facility in Santa Rosa, Laguna is in the early stages of assembling the Philippines’ own RV10 and RV12, primarily for maritime patrol, reconnaissance, surveillance and agricultural applications like cloud seeding and fertilizer spraying for government defense forces and private enterprises.

The aircraft’s manufacturer, Oregon-based Vans, in partnership with Oceana Aerotech Management Corp., will transfer the technology for free, he added. Vans will also provide the kits for assembly but Mitra declined to disclose the project cost. Mitra said for this venture, PADC has partnered with Golden Mid-J Defense Inc., a Singaporean-backed corporation, for the customization of the aircraft.

The original news article, written by Ms. Irma Isip, was first featured on Malaya Business Insight on 17 March 2025. To view the original article, please click here.

(11 March 2025, Makati City) - The Pacific Impact Development Corporation (PIDC) and the Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) discussed current updates on the entry of the Singaporean-based renewable energy company to the economic zone. With a 16 hectare parcel of land already identified by APECO for the project, PIDC has in recent months undergone their due diligence and feasibility study of the area. During the meeting,  the parties also discussed the proposed investment and lease agreements which are already in the final stages of negotiation. With groundbreaking in Casiguran being imminent, both parties are excited to plan the ceremony which is expected to be scheduled in the coming months.

This 16-MW renewable energy facility is set to play a crucial role in both the economic zone and the region’s economic  development as it is expected to power the expected industry developments APECO has been tirelessly trying to establish. APECO representatives led by President and CEO, Atty. Gil G. Taway, alongside Deputy Administrator, Mr. Angelo Gabriel D. Mantuano, Corporate Planning Department Manager, Ms. Ma. Cristina G. Suaverdez and Business Development and Marketing Division Manager, Mr. Gene Angelo P. Ferrer, r, recently convened with PIDC’s Managing Director, Mr. James Timko and Vice President, Mr. Darwin F. Deato, to discuss the project’s next critical steps which included the finalization of PIDC’s power supply agreement with the Aurora Electric Cooperative (AURELCO). 

PCEO Atty. Gil G. Taway IV reaffirmed APECO’s commitment to assisting PIDC in expediting the procurement of permits, instruments, and the necessary regulatory approvals from government agencies such as AURELCO. These initiatives underscore APECO’s dedication to fostering an investor-friendly environment that ensures major projects like PIDC’s solar farm development can move forward efficiently. As the final hurdles are being cleared, anticipation builds for the positive impact the solar farm will bring to Casiguran’s economic landscape. This project is expected to create jobs, enhance business operations, and reinforce the economic zone’s position as an emerging hub for industrial and commercial activity.

(11 March 2025, Manila) - Looking to get support in its plan to begin importation activities in Casiguran, the Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) sought the assistance of the Department of Finance (DOF). DOF Undersecretary, Atty. Charlito Martin R. Mendoza, discussed with APECO President and Chief Executive Officer, Atty. Gil G. Taway IV, alongside Deputy Administrator, Mr. Angelo Gabriel D. Mantuano, how the DOF can support APECO’s plans to build the Casiguran Seaport which will enable the economic zone to be a transhipment hub for logistics and the Fishing Capital of Luzon. The dialogue emphasized APECO’s commitment to aligning its operations with national policies, ensuring that its customs and trade processes meet the standards and regulations of other government agencies.

With continuous collaboration and regulatory alignment, APECO is poised to unlock greater economic potential for Casiguran, Aurora. The agency remains steadfast in its vision of attracting local and international investors through a fully operational and recognized freeport system.

(13 March 2025 - PARQAL, Paranaque)  — The Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) has officially transferred its Manila-based satellite office previously located in Pasay City to PARQAL Mall in Paranaque City in a strategic move that is projected to save the organization approximately P4 million annually. This decisive shift is part of APECO’s commitment to judicious spending of public funds and will directly result in an available budget for critical infrastructure projects in the area. As APECO continues to prepare the economic zone for industry development, the Casiguran-based investment promotion agency is exploring all possible avenues to fund revenue generating infrastructure projects required by possible investors and locators.

"We recognize the need for every government organization to operate with fiscal prudence, especially in a time when resources are scarce and need to be maximized for the greater good of the Filipino people," said APECO President and CEO Atty. Gil G. Taway IV during the Inauguration of APECO’s new satellite office, "this move is part of our broader initiative to enhance operational efficiency and to ensure that taxpayers money is being used responsibly. The savings we will generate from this initiative will allow us to bankroll revenue generating infrastructure projects in APECO."

When APECO’s new management took over the investment promotion agency late 2023, a key issue that needed to be addressed was the negative image and reputation the organization has unfortunately suffered. In mid-2024, after rehabilitating and reclaiming APECO’s Administrative Building in Casiguran, APECO moved its center of operations back to Aurora, re-opening its seat of power to the public. While the savings are a primary factor, the full rehabilitation of the head office in Casiguran and the transfer to a new satellite office in Manila are deliberate steps to shed APECO’s past and to prepare the economic zone for industry development.

PARQAL offers a more modern facility which allows for a more accessible and streamlined environment for employees and stakeholders alike. Features of the new space include more flexible meeting areas, improved communication infrastructure, and a more energy-efficient design that further reduces operational costs.

The decision to transfer, which aligns with the organization’s ongoing efforts to improve fiscal responsibility, was made after a comprehensive review of operational needs and space utilization. The new office is designed to foster a more collaborative work environment, allowing APECO to continue its crucial role in promoting foreign investments, job creation, sustainable development, and support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. thrusts on national security, food security, and energy security.

(10 March 2025, BGC) - As industry development lands in the Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO), the investment promotion agency remains proactive in attracting global locators and investors by engaging with foreign dignitaries and key allies for bilateral cooperation. Originally a meeting scheduled to introduce investment opportunities in APECO to the Honorary Consulate of Portugal, Honorary Consul of Portugal Ramon Garcia Jr. found an opportunity of collaboration with APECO’s plan to construct and develop the existing APECO airstrip. Honorary Consul Garcia shared that he will endorse and connect APECO with Portuguese-based companies who are looking to expand their portfolio of feeder airports through an Operate, Maintain, and Manage (OMM) arrangement.

Under the proposed collaboration, APECO will complete its expansion plan for the existing airstrip, while the potential Portuguese-based investor will take charge of the airport's completion from design to operations. Through strategic discussions and diplomatic outreach, APECO hopes to realize its potential as a prime location for industries that are seeking to locate, to invest, or  to expand in the Philippines. These efforts reinforce APECO’s commitment to becoming a hub for trade, logistics, and high-value investments.

The possible businesses engagement through the Honorary Consulate of Portugal underscore APECO’s growing reputation as a key destination for foreign investment. Being considered for such high-value infrastructure projects demonstrates improving investor confidence in APECO. The proposed partnership will not only strengthen APECO’s aviation developments but also signal the economic zone’s readiness to accommodate major international firms and larger-scope projects.

(5 March 2025, Manila) - The Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) is paving the way for a more seamless trade operation through a strategic dialogue with the Bureau of Customs (BOC). By securing its recognition and compliance within BOC’s regulatory framework, APECO sets the stage for businesses within the economic zone to enjoy smoother customs processing which will surely boost investor confidence.

The APECO delegates, led by Deputy Administrator Mr. Angelo Gabriel D. Mantuano, recently concluded a productive meeting with the BOC Ports Operations Coordination Division (POCD). The meeting clarified the requirements that APECO must fulfill in order to issue a Certificate of Importation Accreditation to its locators. In effect, this accreditation will enable businesses within the ecozone to import raw materials and products seamlessly in compliance with BOC regulations. With these requirements now clearly outlined, APECO has a concrete path to implementing the strategy of Atty. Gil G. Taway IV, President and Chief Executive Officer, for enhancing trade facilitation within the zone.

A key topic of discussion was how APECO can fully exercise its Freeport charter under Republic Act (RA) 9490, as amended, in relation to Section 3.2 of Customs Memorandum Order (CMO) 19-2019, which implements Section 817 of RA 10863, also known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act. To achieve this, APECO must draft a position paper to the Department of Finance to formalize APECO’s status, secure inclusion into relevant CMOs, and finalize a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with BOC. These steps are necessary for APECO to facilitate the smooth importation of goods for its locators, ensuring they benefit from tax and duty-free incentives as provided by its Freeport charter. Additionally, the meeting addressed the need for a designated destination code and accreditation of locators through the Client Profile Registration System (CPRS) to ensure efficient import processing.

For APECO and its locators, these developments represent a major step toward facilitating smoother trade operations. Establishing a clear and structured importation process will attract more investors by reducing bureaucratic hurdles and ensuring compliance with customs regulations. The potential creation of an official BOC office within APECO’s premises would further streamline trade activities, lowering logistical costs and increasing operational efficiency for businesses within the ecozone. By ensuring that APECO's policies align with existing customs laws, APECO can ensure that its locators fully benefit from the tax and duty-free privileges intended for freeports. The collaboration between APECO and BOC signifies a proactive approach to fostering economic growth, boosting investor confidence, and unlocking new opportunities for trade that will benefit locators and the broader economy of Aurora.

(10 March 2025, PARQAL, Parañaque) - Just as Q1 of 2025 is coming to a close, the APECO Executive Committee members discussed important updates and fleshed out key initiatives the investment promotion agency planned to execute for the year. Following three key infrastructure projects inaugurated last month, APECO has also found a new home in Manila: Parqal, Paranaque. In expecting to host more locators and investors, APECO shall be inaugurating the new Manila-based Satellite Office tomorrow, 13 March 2025. 

The newly built satellite office showcases a modern and professional space for business operations that will surely facilitate the realization of APECO’s plans and programs into actual projects and results. Situated in the heart of ASEANA City, the office facility offers a pristine and well-organized environment that’s designed to enhance productivity and collaboration.

Beyond aesthetics, the new office embodies APECO’s vision of fostering a business-friendly environment that aligns with international standards. The well-maintained facilities, organized workspaces, and welcoming atmosphere create a strong first impression for visiting investors. In their new home, APECO aims to bolster its position as a premier destination for enterprises looking to establish operations in the country.

Other matters that were also discussed during the meeting were the establishment of APECO’s Special Lane Unit (SLU) aimed at giving locators and investors unrivaled government assistance as they establish themselves in the Philippines, the operations and management of the APECO Super Health Center, rehabilitation and renovation of other APECO assets, the roadmap for the APECO Airport development, the progress of the APECO Grand Lagoon Project, and updates on Ready for Fit Out (RFFO) and Ready for Occupancy (RFO) Offices units, to name a few. The seamless flow of the meeting showed that the office is ready to accommodate and host business leaders and potential locators who seek to engage with APECO.

Moving forward, APECO plans to maximize its modern office space by hosting more meetings, investor briefings, and collaborative events. The recent executive meeting marked the beginning of a new chapter where business and innovation can thrive in a setting designed for success.

(10 March 2025, Parañaque) Verdant TerraForm Inc. has long been looking for a location where they can import used cooking oil and process it into biodiesel in the Philippines. Their extensive search has led them to explore business opportunities with the Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) due to its strategic location as the country’s sole gateway to the Pacific. This logistical advantage presents a unique opportunity for Verdant’s importation needs. 

As a potential locator, President and Chief Executive Officer Ruel Villaluna of Verdant TerraForm Inc. has expressed strong interest in locating within APECO, emphasizing that the economic zone is well-suited for Verdant’s operational needs. He further explained that importing is only a part of the company’s full-scale operation as they also envision developing a processing facility that will transform used cooking oil into biodiesel, an eco-friendly alternative fuel source.

The planned facility is expected to generate local employment opportunities which will boost economic activity in the region and positively contribute to the country’s growing interest in seeking alternative fuel. With Casiguran’s proximity to key transport hubs and the availability of natural resources, APECO presents an ideal location for such ventures.

Furthermore, the importation of used cooking oil for biodiesel production could establish Casiguran as a hub for alternative fuel processing. This investment has the potential to create new supply chain opportunities that will involve local businesses in logistics, refinement, and distribution. The environmental benefits of biodiesel, including reduced carbon emissions and decreased reliance on fossil fuels, further support APECO’s commitment in implementing environmental stewardship in its push for development.

As discussions continue to progress, APECO is scheduling the official signing for the Letter of Cooperation with Verdant TerraForm Inc. The entry of Verdant TerraForm Inc. into the economic zone would mark another step toward making APECO a center for sustainable energy production.

(24 January 2025, Casiguran) - With guidance from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) convened Integrated Social Forestry (ISF) program holders and resort owners within Casiguran to discuss the investment promotion agency’s plan to develop Parcel 2 of its managed land area which encompasses the San Ildefonso Peninsula by virtue of the APECO Charter.

As the economic zone treads forward, APECO seeks to implement a proper and transparent process for the procurement of permits, clearances and other compliances. Additionally, in close compliance with the Local Government Unit of Casiguran as well as the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO), APECO seeks to transfer the regulation, operation and maintenance of Parcel 2 to the investment promotion agency to ensure that projects and developments within the area complement and support each other. 

Welcomed by APECO President and Chief Executive Officer Atty. Gil G. Taway IV, he reiterated that no eviction shall happen under the current management and that APECO is committed to ensuring a smooth and transparent process for all affected businesses.

The session served as an important platform for stakeholders to discuss immediate concerns, necessary requirements and guidelines for compliance. Moreover, APECO presented its long-term vision of development for the area which will not be possible without the involvement of the local community. 

As APECO pursues regular dialogue with all stakeholders, it remains dedicated to fostering a business-friendly environment not only for foreign businesses but especially for micro, small and medium local enterprises in the region.

APECO assured the Certificate of Stewardship (CS) holders and resort operators that it will issue its guidelines for the procurement of permits, clearances, and compliances once finalized. With developments now in full swing, APECO is making strides towards joint development as it continues to position Casiguran to become the next premier tourism destination in the Philippines.