The Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region III (BFAR-III) have formalized a partnership aimed at aligning corporate development with community-based marine livelihood initiatives in Casiguran.
APECO president and CEO Gil G. Taway IV and BFAR-III regional director Wilfredo M. Cruz signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to launch several sustainable projects intended to benefit local stakeholders, enhance food security, and establish Casiguran as a key player in marine-based enterprise.
Key initiatives under the agreement include:
A P10 million inland salt production facility in Brgy. Cozo, designed to create 30 local jobs and produce artisanal salt for domestic and export markets.
Commercial-scale seaweed farming across three barangays—Diniog, Dalugan, and Cozo—aimed at introducing modern cultivation and drying practices for culinary and export-grade seaweed.
A proposed marine hatchery with a projected investment of P40–50 million, supporting fingerling production to aid aquaculture efforts beyond Casiguran.
A vessel monitoring system (VMS) covering the Philippine Rise and Eastern Seaboard, bolstering maritime surveillance and paving the way for future port development.
“These projects are not just about infrastructure; they are investments in people,” said PCEO Taway. “Through partnerships like this, Bagong APECO advances inclusive, sustainable growth for coastal communities.”
A sea trial of the Doña Aurora surveillance vessel also took place following the signing, reinforcing joint efforts to strengthen fisheries monitoring.
“We now see a genuine alignment of goals between BFAR and APECO,” director Cruz noted, calling the collaboration a model for coastal area development nationwide.
The agreement reinforces APECO’s shift toward ecotone-sensitive development, where corporate operations support the livelihood and resilience of surrounding communities.
