Amid WPS tension, Aurora eyed as PH defense hub
The Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (Apeco) has received a seal of approval to become the Philippines’ national defense hub, gaining crucial support that could attract billions of dollars.
The nearly 17-year-old government-owned and controlled corporation said that Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez had expressed his full support to the new strategic direction of Apeco.
Aside from this, Apeco also seeks to establish itself as the fishing capital of Luzon, develop the region as a renewable energy center and advance Casiguran, Aurora, as the country’s next premier tourism destination.
“These new strategic directions are aligned with the priorities of President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos’ thrusts for national security, food security and energy security, and also reflects the agency’s commitment towards attracting more foreign direct investments,” Apeco said in a statement.
Sage harbor
Last month, Apeco conducted an investment mission to the U.S. led by its president and chief executive officer Gil Taway IV.
The head of the economic zone met with the defense and armed forces attache of the embassy, Col. Roy Anthony Derilo and naval attache Capt. James Francis Lugtu.
Apeco said this was the initial step to link up with key players in the US defense industry.
In 2023, Forbes reported that the US defense industry had awarded more than $400 billion in contracts to the private sector.
Its economic zone provides the closest safe harbor to the Philippine Rise, Apeco said, highlighting its immediate access to the Pacific Eastern Seaboard.
“Given the existing disputes in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), Apeco stands as the logical choice for the country’s national defense agenda,” it said.
“Casiguran’s locational advantage coupled with natural barriers provided by the Sierra Madre Mountain Range and the San Ildefonso Peninsula makes Apeco the perfect nexus of the country’s defense industry,” it said further.
Besides its strategic location, Apeco touted that it is home to a high-quality workforce, known for skills and adaptability. It also cited the benefit of competitive labor costs across all markets.
“Investors can also take advantage of Apeco’s low lease rates and long-term lease options, providing a cost-effective solution for businesses considering growth and expansion as well as those looking to extend their business continuity plans,” it said.
