The Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) is positioning itself as a future hub for defense, fisheries, clean energy, and logistics, as it seeks investors to help develop key infrastructure in northern Aurora.
Speaking at the National Press Club in Intramuros, APECO president and CEO undersecretary Gil G. Taway IV said the 13,000-hectare ecozone in Casiguran is being aligned with national priorities on food, energy, and security under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
APECO aims to become the country’s first national defense hub, citing growing interest from defense-related companies. It is also promoting the area as a “Fishing Capital of the Pacific,” leveraging its proximity to the Philippine Rise, and as a site for renewable energy projects including wind, solar, tidal, and hydrogen.
The agency acknowledged it cannot yet support current supply chain demands due to the absence of a seaport and commercial airport. However, it is inviting investors to help build the planned Casiguran International New Port and Casiguran International Airport.
APECO said its long-term goal is to serve as a “redundancy node” in global trade—an alternative logistics gateway on the country’s Pacific side to complement existing western ports and reduce congestion and risk.
The planned port-airport complex is envisioned as an integrated logistics and industrial zone, supporting manufacturing, agro-processing, and cold chain systems for export-oriented industries.
After years of slow progress, APECO said it is regaining momentum, improving coordination with communities and government agencies, and shifting toward a more inclusive development strategy.
Officials called on investors and industry partners to take part in shaping the ecozone’s future, describing it as a platform designed for resilience and flexibility in an increasingly uncertain global economy.
