(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.
(04 March 2025, Parañaque City) - The Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) has finalized both lease and investment agreements with two more locators namely the TGV Development Corporation (TGVDC) and Central Sierra Hotels Resorts, Inc. (CSHRI). Aligning with APECO’s direction to be the Fishing Capital of Luzon, TGVDC is developing both a cold storage facility, a food processing center, and a docking and boat facilities for tourism while CSHRI is constructing eighty (80) villas with ten (10) luxury villas as APECO is positioning to be the Philippine’s next premiere tourism destination.
In a meeting last week, APECO executives led by President and Chief Executive Officer Atty. Gil G. Taway IV met with TGVDC and CSHRI representative and concurrently a member of the APECO Board of Directors, Director Rene G. Tayag, to finalize the lease and investment contracts for both companies with the contract signing scheduled on 18 March 2025 and the groundbreaking ceremony for both projects on 28 April 2025.
TGVDC’s cold storage facilities and food processing hubs come at an opportune time as APECO continues to prioritize building infrastructure that would enable the economic zone to become a thriving Agri-Aqua Industry hub. With a cold storage facility, produce and other perishable goods will have less spoilage and would have an extended shelf life. Coupled with a food processing plant, locally farmed, caught, or produced goods can be transformed into high-value export further that is expected to raise revenue for local farmers and fishermen. Additionally, TGVDC will also be constructing docking and boat facilities for tourism and water sports activities such as watersports, jet ski, boating, kayaking, and island hopping further adding more thrill to the already exciting economic zone. These investments from TGVDC are some of many more that will make the economic zone more accessible and attractive for commercial fishing, food processi ng, and agri/aqua ventures, significantly advancing APECO’s thrust to become the Fishing Capital of Luzon.
On the tourism front, CSHRI plans to introduce upscale accommodations to the already booming tourism market of the region. Set to add a total of eighty (80) villas with ten (10) luxury villas catering to a growing market of tourists seeking luxury experiences amidst Casiguran’s natural beauty, it is the perfect time to invest in APECO. This will lead to not only increased visitor foot traffic from both foreign and domestic markets but also allow APECO to pivot towards Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions (MICE) tourism. In addition to the luxury villas, CSHRI shall also be introducing a bar, a restaurant, and a convenience store that would further strengthen the area’s appeal that ensures a well-rounded experience for both tourists and residents alike.
These developments promise long-term economic benefits by stimulating investment, enhancing local enterprises, and generating employment opportunities. APECO and its surrounding communities stand to gain not only from immediate job creation but also from a sustainable growth cycle driven by increased commerce and tourism. As these projects are set to rise in the near future so shall APECO’s continued promise to be the catalyst of change and progress for Casiguran, for DiCaDi, for Aurora, and for the Philippines.
(19 February 2025 - Baler, Aurora) - As the province of Aurora marks its 46th founding anniversary, the spirit of service, unity, and progress took center stage in Baler as this year’s theme is a testament to the province’s enduring vision—one of resilience and prosperity. With House Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez leading the call for strengthened infrastructure projects and essential services, Aurora stands at the threshold of a new era of growth. This year’s anniversary was not just about celebrating the past—it was about building a brighter, more sustainable future for all.
“Let us work together. Let us dream bigger. Let us make sure that Aurora continues to rise - mas matatag, mas maunlad, mas handa sa kinabukasan, ” said House Speaker Romualdez during his keynote address during the opening ceremony of the program.
Speaking to Aurora Lone District Representative Congressman Rommel Angara, Aurora Governor Reynante Tolentino, other local government officers, and national legislators and agency representatives in attendance, Speaker Romualdez further stated that the House of Representatives shall prioritize the completion of key infrastructure projects in Aurora such as the Baler Airport, Aurora Memorial Hospital, health centers, road networks, and covered courts.
During the festivities, Mr. Gene Angelo P. Ferrer, Business Development and Marketing Manager, had a chance to speak with Speaker Romualdez where he reported the progress of the previously mentioned P800 million worth of abandoned and discontinued projects in APECO by President Marcos of which His Excellency committed to finish and complete under the present APECO administration of President and Chief Executive Officer Atty. Gil G. Taway IV. Recently, APECO inaugurated its Super Health Center, a 1000-cubic meter Central Water Reservoir System, and its Material Recovery Facility.
Ating gunitan kung para kanino ang lahat ng ating mga ginawa bilang mga lingkod bayan: ang mamayang Pilipino!
4 March 2025, Pasay City - Following the successful site inspection of the Casiguran Airport located within the Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO), the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) hosted delegates of APECO to develop a roadmap for improvements and to discuss operational plans for the development of the Casiguran Airport. APECO reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the concerns raised by CAAP in its safety inspection report and ensured that the airport will meet safety, regulatory, and operational standards.
In pursuit of the immediate use of the airport, APECO applied for a Permit to Operate (PTO) from CAAP. Since their last meeting, APECO has outlined a series of infrastructure improvements arising from the initial inspection. Immediate upgrades include runway and taxiway markings, perimeter fencing improvements, drainage canal development, vegetation clearing, and the construction of a control tower. These developments will enable APECO’s plan to accommodate larger commercial aircrafts such as A320 And C130 planes which will improve the economic zone’s impact for regional economic development.
Moving forward, APECO and CAAP are drafting a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) that will outline the roles and responsibilities of both parties. The MOA will formalize the collaboration between APECO and CAAP in managing and operating the Casiguran Airport. This agreement aims to streamline operations and establish clear responsibilities to ensure the efficient and compliant management of the facility.
At the end of the meeting, both APECO and CAAP expressed a shared commitment to ensuring Casiguran Airport’s operational readiness and compliance in the immediate future. Through continuous dialogue, both organizations aim to enhance the airport’s capabilities and support its role in fostering economic growth in Aurora.
The next step would be a secondary site visit to the Casiguran Airport will be scheduled for ADMS and the Aerodrome and Air Navigation Service Oversight Office (AANSOO) of CAAP.
Below are the findings of the Safety Inspection Report of CAAP during the 18-19 February 2025 Casiguran Airport Site Inspection:
February 18, 2025 - The Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) warmly hosted the delegation of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) which was headed by Mr. Glenn Tripulca, Area III Manager to assess how to make the Casiguran Airstrip located within APECO operational, including the application for a Permit to Operate (PTO). CAAP visited the Aurora-based investment promotion agency to inspect and assess the airstrip facilities within APECO for compliance with the international civil aviation standards and prevailing safety regulations under PCAR.
During the site inspection, the Aerodrome and Air Navigation Service Oversight Office (AANSOO) of CAAP examined and evaluated the operational condition and readiness of the Casiguran airstrip. Afterwards, APECO and CAAP engaged in a productive discussion wherein CAAP provided their initial feedback on APECO’s immediate concerns and areas to develop for the Casiguran Airstrip.
The site inspection and meeting with CAAP provided an important avenue for APECO’s development of the Casiguran Airport which would complement the planned Baler Airport. CAAP’s recommendations and procedural mitigations are currently being studied and addressed by APECO’s team. Follow through meetings are already scheduled for March with CAAP and its major services, including the AANSOO, the Aerodrome Development and Management Service (ADMS), and the Enforcement and Legal Service (ELS) to continue discussions on regulatory compliance with APECO’s goal of making the CGG Airstrip operational as soon as possible.
The development of the Casiguran Airport is critical to the long term plans of APECO who expects to host more investors and trade missions in Aurora.
(27 February 2025 - Casiguran, Aurora) - A Super Health Center (SHC), a Materials Recovery Facility (MRF), and the Central Water Supply and Reservoir System Phase 1 (CWSR) are the latest infrastructure projects to be inaugurated by the Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) as it continues to prepare its 12, 743 hectares of managed land for industry development. Since embarking on a new strategic direction for the economic zone, the present APECO management continues to prioritize projects and programs that advance the revenue-generating potential of the area. The completion of these projects highlights APECO’s dedication to transforming the province of Aurora into a competitive and sustainable hub for trade, production, and investment.
One of the most anticipated developments in the region is the establishment of the APECO Super Health Center, a modern healthcare facility designed to cater to the medical needs of investors, locators, staff, and the local community. Towards the goal of diversifying APECO’s tourism products, the Super Health Center was identified as a critical infrastructure that is necessary to enable other areas of the tourism industry to come in such as Senior Tourism for retirement facilities, Sports Tourism for trainings, triathlons, and domestic and international sports meets, and Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) Tourism for various forums and discussions that can contribute to the advancement of knowledge for the country.
“The inauguration of the APECO Super Health Center adds immense value not only to the economic zone but also to Aurora as a whole,” said Aurora Lone District Representative Congressman Rommel T. Angara, “it’s an example of how APECO is proactively addressing the needs of both locators and their employees, making the region an even more attractive place to invest and operate in. By providing accessible, reliable medical care, we are enhancing the well-being of our community and our workforce while also offering locators a key service that supports their operations and growth within the economic zone.”
APECO’s Material Recovery Facility marks a significant step toward improving waste management systems and strengthening APECO’s value proposition to existing and potential investors. The facility is designed to enhance recycling efforts, support sustainable business practices, and promote environmental responsibility within the economic zone. The facility’s sorting and processing systems will enable APECO to efficiently manage waste, reduce landfill dependency, and generate new economic opportunities by recycling valuable materials. This initiative aligns with APECO’s commitment to promoting sustainable development and ensuring that APECO remains a competitive and environmentally responsible business hub.
Director Rene G. Tayag, Member of the Board of Directors, highlighted the importance of the MRF in attracting more investments to the region, “the inauguration of the Material Recovery Facility demonstrates APECO’s foresight in making our economic zone an attractive destination for businesses. By investing in sustainable infrastructure, APECO is showing that we value both economic growth and environmental stewardship. This will undoubtedly enhance the zone’s appeal to investors looking for a responsible and forward-thinking place to do business.”
During the first year of the current APECO management, they reported an alarming P800M worth of abandoned and discontinued infrastructure projects left by the previous administration. Empowered by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., APECO was able to complete P115M worth of infrastructure projects last year. The inauguration of the Central Water Supply and Reservoir System Phase 1 adds another P60-M to the completed amount of projects. The CWSR is a strategic investment that ensures the continuous and reliable supply of water to meet the needs of investors and locators looking to invest in Aurora.
“Reliable water supply is a cornerstone of any thriving business environment, and the Central Water Supply and Reservoir System Phase 1 is a vital piece of infrastructure that will help ensure the smooth operation of our locators,” said Atty. Gil G. Taway IV, President and CEO of APECO, during the inauguration ceremony. “These new infrastructure projects, the SHC, the MRF, and the CWSR, not only supports the businesses within the zone but also enhances the overall appeal of APECO as an attractive investment destination. We are confident that these developments will further strengthen our value proposition for future investors and shall demonstrate our readiness for further investments and industrial growth.”
APECO is located in Casiguran, Aurora and was established through Republic Act 9490, as amended by Republic Act 10083. APECO is planned to be developed into and operated as a decentralized, self-reliant and self-sustaining industrial, commercial/trading, agro-industrial, tourist, banking, financial and investment center with suitable residential areas. APECO is a government-owned and controlled corporation whose purpose is to attract foreign investments, to generate jobs, and to improve social and economic conditions of the local community.
Three new infrastructure projects have recently been completed by the Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) namely the Super Health Center (SHC), a Materials Recovery Facility (MRF), and the Central Water Reservoir System Phase 1 (CWRS). This marks a significant milestone for APECO as it continues to prepare the economic zone for industry development that supports the national development directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on national security, food security, and energy security.
Critical to the continued growth of APECO was the establishment of the Super Health Center which is expected to benefit both the local community as well as the locators and investors coming into the economic zone. Purposefully positioned in Casiguran, the SHC will provide comprehensive healthcare not only to the local vicinity but also to nearby municipalities and neighboring regions. With its completion, reliable healthcare services will add another layer of security and convenience for potential investors looking to establish business operations in the area, not to mention shall also service their customers and clients. The SHC was identified to be an important infrastructure that will enable the economic zone’s capabilities in expanding its tourism portfolio in new directions such as developing retirement homes for the elderly and pursuing hospitality ventures, building sports facilities and hosting sporting events like triathlons and meets, and accommodating large-scale conferences, exhibitions, and meetings for local and foreign businesses.
Sustainability is at the heart of APECO’s development strategy and the MRF is designed to optimize recycling efforts and promote environmental stewardship within the economic zone. The facility will improve waste segregation, recycling valuable materials, and responsible disposal practices. By implementing better waste management solutions, APECO is taking proactive steps in reducing the environmental impacts of its businesses, effectively highlighting APECO’s commitment to sustainable development and positioning it as a competitive and eco-friendly investment hub.
In its first year, the current APECO administration uncovered a staggering P800 million worth of abandoned infrastructure projects left behind by the previous management. Under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., APECO shifted its focus towards a new strategic direction, successfully completing P115 million worth of infrastructure projects in 2024. Since then, APECO has been aggressively prioritizing projects and programs that will help develop the economic zone into a competitive and sustainable hub, offering unparalleled opportunities in trade, production, and investment.
The inauguration of the CWRS, valued at P60 million, marks yet another significant milestone in APECO’s ongoing efforts to recover lost investments and drive meaningful progress for the economic zone. With the completion of the CWRS, APECO is taking a major step toward ensuring a stable, clean, and sufficient water supply towards supporting the operations of water-intensive industries such as production and manufacturing.
In its continued push to catalyze sustainable development in Aurora, APECO is taking proactive steps in building vital infrastructures that will enable and support the development of locators and investors. Soon, APECO shall become a premier foreign investment market for the Philippines and for Aurora.
Building on the momentum of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s successful visit to the Czech Republic earlier in 2024, officials of the Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) met with key leaders of the business sectors of Prague and Brno in the Czech Republic last November 2024. Led by APECO President and Chief Executive Officer Atty. Gil G. Taway IV, the investment mission would not have been successful without the support of Philippine Ambassador to the Czech Republic, H.E. Eduardo R. Meñez, and the guidance from Minister and Consul General Indhira C. Bañares. The goal of the mission was to raise awareness about the economic zone’s new strategic direction and to build economic ties with existing Czech allies.
On the first day of the mission, the APECO delegation paid a courtesy visit to His Excellency Eduardo R. Meñez, Philippine Ambassador to the Czech Republic, to introduce the members of the delegation as well as to apprise the Ambassador on the objectives of the mission. Ambassador Meñez expressed his full support for APECO’s vision in establishing the Philippines’ 1st National Defense Hub as well as on its plans to introduce industry development and to diversify the tourism market in Aurora. Joining the courtesy call was Consul General Indhira C. Bañares who likewise welcomed the initiative of APECO to visit emerging foreign investment markets such as the Czech Republic who may also find value in investing in key infrastructure projects in the Philippines such as the Casiguran Seaport and the APECO Airport which may enable cross-border economic activities for the Czech-based companies.
In pursuit of its national security imperative, APECO met with Mr. Jaroslav Pecháček, Vice President of the Defence and Security Industry Association of the Czech Republic (AOBP), who admittedly shared that the Philippines has long been in the radar of Czech defense-related companies. Through AOBP, APECO has found a critical gateway to connect with leading Czech companies specializing in various defense industries such as research, development, trade, and manufacturing. By establishing a primary contact within AOBP, APECO is taking proactive steps to attract Czech defense firms to participate in the development of the 1st National Defense Hub in the Philippines to be located in Casiguran, Aurora.
APECO also held high-level discussions with three major chambers of commerce and confederations during the investment mission. Representing the Czech Chamber of Commerce (CCC), Mr. Jiri Hasnl, Director of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Petr Talafus, Deputy Director, and Ms. Eva Langeroya, Project Manager, welcomed APECO’s eagerness to explore the various strengths of the business sector of the Czech Republic. With its vast network, CCC can advance APECO’s investment agenda by facilitating business connections between Czech enterprises and scheduling missions between the two countries. By leveraging CCC’s business matchmaking and networking capabilities, APECO is positioning to be the strategic investment partner for Czech companies looking to expand into Southeast Asia.
Similarly, the delegation also met with Mr. Oto Hrdlička, Director of External Relations, and Mr. Tomáš Kubala, Vice President of the Economic Chamber and Chair of the Board, of the Brno Chamber of Commerce (BCC). The BCC can provide APECO an opportunity to connect with European SMEs (Small and Medium-sized Enterprises) looking to expand internationally. The chamber’s focus on innovation and international cooperation aligns with APECO’s goal of attracting diverse industries for development, making it an ideal partner in investment promotion.
Looking for a group with expertise on various advocacies and who maintains a healthy collaboration with government bodies, the delegation met with Mr. Daniel Urban, President, Mr. Lukas Martin, Director of International Affairs, and Dominik Joza, External Affairs, of the Confederation of Industry of the Czech Republic. The Confederation can initiate dialogues between APECO and Czech policymakers to create mutually beneficial investment frameworks for Czech businesses seeking offshore manufacturing hubs, trade partnerships, and expansion opportunities. Through their expertise on industrial policy and innovations, APECO aims to align its zone development with global best practices in order to make the economic zone more attractive for European investors.
All of these insightful meetings provided APECO with a platform to showcase its incentives and investment-ready opportunities. In particular, APECO emphasized its plans to develop the Casiguran Seaport and the APECO Airport which will position the economic zone as a vital gateway for trade and commerce globally. Discussions also covered investment opportunities for food security through Aurora's rich natural resources. Aiming to be the Fishing Capital of Luzon, APECO hopes to capitalize on the rich abundance of the Philippine Sea which is a known tuna highway as well as a spawning ground to many high value fish. Moreover, APECO explored partnerships in renewable energy projects to ensure sustainable power solutions for the Philippines. These strategic engagements underscore APECO’s commitment to creating a diversified investment ecosystem ripe for foreign partnership and joint collaboration.
In separate meetings, APECO also met with Vaclav Beran, Head of Business and Sustainability at Evergreen, and Michael Janeček, Director of the Czech Water Alliance. Both meetings focused on different sustainable development initiatives that would advance sustainable development goals while providing interesting investment opportunities. Evergreen's expertise in nature-based carbon removal solutions aligns with APECO’s commitment to environmental sustainability, while the Czech Water Alliance presented promising frameworks and technologies for improving resource management in the economic zone. These engagements highlight APECO’s dedication in integrating green technology and sustainable practices into its long-term economic plans.
Finally, APECO is also expanding its reach to non-traditional markets as they met with Mr. Jan Krchňavý, Chief of Technical Section, from Masaryk University, a prestigious UN-funded institution renowned for its advancements in medical technology and healthcare solutions in the Czech Republic. During the visit, the delegation had the opportunity to explore the Department of Simulation Medicine and Simulation Center’s (SIMU) cutting-edge facilities and research programs which provided substantial insight to medical services and healthcare innovations that can be replicated and adapted in the Philippines. Through this productive engagement, APECO hopes to implement similar innovations in the country.
With its continued push for new locators and investors, APECO is positioning itself as the Philippines’ 1st National Defense Hub, the Fishing Capital of Luzon, and a renewable energy center. By leveraging its strategic location and fostering collaborations with European business leaders, APECO is paving the way for sustainable economic growth and innovation in the Philippines. Investors seeking opportunities in a dynamic economic zone should look no further than APECO—the country’s next premiere investment market.
22 February 2025 - The Paris-based global watchdog, Financial Action Task Force (FATF), has removed the Philippines from its “grey list” where the country was placed since June 2021.
Citing major improvements in combating money laundering and terrorism financing in the country, FATF President Elisa de Anda Madrazo said in a briefing, “the plenary agreed to take the Philippines off the grey list in recognition of the completion of their action plan.”
In July 2023, President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. issued Executive Order No. 33, which served as a roadmap for addressing the action plan imposed by the FATF. Further ensuring the country’s exit of the grey list additional directives were issued in October 2023 and January 2024.
“Our well-earned exit from the Financial Action Task Force’s grey list boosts our drive to attract job-creating, growth-inducing foreign direct investments (FDI),” Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, who also chairs the National Anti-Money Laundering/Counter-Terrorism Financing/Counter-Proliferation Financing (AML/CTF/CPF) Coordinating Committee (NACC), said in a statement.
The Philippines’ exit from the FATF grey list is expected to facilitate faster and lower-cost cross-border transactions, reduce compliance barriers, and enhance financial transparency. These will support business, strengthen the country's position as an attractive destination for FDI.
The FATF’s decision follows an onsite visit on 20-22 January 2025, during which the Philippines successfully demonstrated compliance with its action plan, including:
FATF has praised the efforts of the Philippines in addressing all 18 deficiencies in its anti-money laundering and counter terrorism financing systems specifically noting that the ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) has immensely contributed to the country’s removal from the list.
Aligning with President Marcos Jr.'s directive, Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) President and CEO Atty. Gil G. Taway IV has firmly stated that no POGO will be allowed to locate nor to operate within the economic zone. APECO has served as resource speakers in several hearings and discussions hosted by the Senate and House of Representatives and maintained that POGOs fail to uplift the lives of the local communities wherein they operate and that the mere presence of the same negatively impacts the attractiveness of the economic zone for other industries.
For APECO, this development will positively contribute in boosting the trust and confidence of foreign investors and businesses to support its new strategic direction in becoming a premiere investment hub in Central Luzon. APECO has identified key investment opportunities towards its development which include the the construction of the Casiguran Seaport and the development of the APECO Airport which shall pave the way for the economic zone to become the Philippines’ 1st National Defense Hub, the Fishing Capital of the North, and a center for renewable energy.
Visit this link here to learn more information about the FATF.
