Casiguran: Spain-based groups will assist in the development of a food and cold chain logistics hub inside the Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) in Casiguran, Aurora. The investment promotion agency said Tuesday the hub will occupy five to 10 hectares, according to a press release.

According to Philippines News Agency, APECO president and chief executive officer lawyer Gil Taway stated that initial discussions were conducted with engineering firm IDOM Consulting, Engineering, Architecture S.A.U., and designer Fira Barcelona during an investment mission to Spain from September 29 to October 3. A working group will be established to draft the memorandum of agreement (MOA) within 60 days and finalize the list of projects with IDOM and Fira.

Taway proposed to IDOM officials a feasibility study for a food and logistics hub similar to the 100-hectare wholesale and logistics hub called Mercabarna, which was developed by the Barcelona City government. IDOM officials also extended an offer to assist APECO in accessing investment-ready projects that might interest IDOM's partners, such as the Asian Development Bank.

He emphasized that IDOM's proposal aligns with their goal to transform Casiguran into the Fishing Capital of the Pacific and enhance agricultural output while promoting value-adding activities for Aurora's agri-based industries. This partnership is seen as a way to build the infrastructure backbone that supports food security, investment, and job creation.

APECO officials also engaged in discussions with Fira Barcelona chief executive officer Ricard Zapatero regarding a potential collaboration for a world-class convention center within the ecozone. Taway noted that the meetings with Fira Barcelona and IDOM have paved the way for concrete collaboration opportunities that align with APECO's master development plan, potentially bringing world-class infrastructure and investment to Casiguran.