The Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) is actively pursuing investments from the Czech Republic to establish Casiguran as a pivotal center for defense manufacturing in the Philippines. During a recent visit to Prague, APECO officials, including President and CEO Gil Taway IV and Business Development and Marketing Chief Gene Angelo Ferrer, received strong backing from Philippine Ambassador Eduardo Meñez for their ambitious project.
Ambassador Meñez emphasized the importance of APECO’s initiative in bolstering the nation’s defense capabilities and ensuring the safety of its citizens. He highlighted the embassy’s ongoing collaboration with the Czech government, chambers of commerce, and business groups to foster partnerships in defense technology and capacity building.
APECO’s vision aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s agenda, focusing on national, food, and energy security. Taway stressed that developing a defense hub in Casiguran would not only enhance the Philippines’ defense capabilities but also drive economic growth, create employment opportunities, and improve infrastructure in the eastern part of Luzon.
Taway further noted that APECO’s efforts support Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr.’s strategic direction to strengthen the country’s military capabilities. He affirmed APECO’s readiness to provide safe harbors in Casiguran for the Philippine fleet and its allies, aligning with the nation’s Archipelagic Defense doctrine.
APECO plans to conduct another investment mission to Prague later this year to further advance their goal of transforming Casiguran into a defense manufacturing hub, reinforcing the Philippines’ commitment to national security and regional prosperity.