Manila: The Commission on Audit (COA) has acknowledged significant infrastructure developments at the Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO), marking a departure from previous inactivity and establishing a platform for ongoing advancement.
According to Philippines News Agency, APECO has been recognized in the 2024 Audit Observation Memorandum for its infrastructure initiatives, which are seen as crucial in preparing the ecozone for investment. The organization completed three major projects, including the initial phase of a Sewage Treatment Plant, a Fire Station, and a Central Water Supply and Reservoir (CSWR) Project, collectively valued at PHP100 million and delivered in under a year.
APECO President and CEO Gil Taway IV emphasized the symbolic nature of these infrastructure achievements, highlighting their impact on local residents and investor confidence. Additionally, APECO has resumed operations in its administration building after vacating a Philippine offshore gaming operator, which had previously forced employees into makeshift offices.
Several projects are nearing completion, including the second phase of the CSWR and Underground Power Distribution Lines (UPDL), which aim to enhance utility provisions for future tenants. The UPDL, in particular, is designed to offer more reliable and disaster-resilient power infrastructure. APECO is also preparing office units for industrial and tech-based tenants while exploring tourism and community development opportunities with projects like the Boat Caf©, beachfront Dome Tent, and the upcoming Grand Lagoon Project.
APECO has temporarily reopened underutilized assets such as executive villas and residences, generating nearly PHP200,000 in revenue within a month. The relocation of its Manila satellite office to Parqal in Para±aque City resulted in PHP1.45 million in savings, with an additional PHP5.3 million expected once the new satellite office is fully operational.
Taway stated that these developments showcase APECO's readiness to support sustainable, long-term growth, aligning with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s national focus on food, energy, and national security. "Every pipe laid and beam raised is part of a bigger story," he remarked, underscoring the broader strategy of building trust, opportunity, and a promising future for Aurora.
