Officials from the Department of Trade and Industry’s Supply Chain and Logistics Group (DTI-SCLG) visited the Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) from March 2 to 4 to explore opportunities for logistics development and supply chain integration in Aurora province.
The delegation was led by DTI Undersecretary Mary Jean T. Pacheco and was welcomed by APECO President and CEO Gil G. Taway IV at the agency’s headquarters in Casiguran.
The visit followed an earlier coordination meeting held in Makati City on February 4 between APECO Business Development and Marketing Manager Gene Angelo P. Ferrer and Pacheco. The activity aimed to assess Aurora’s logistics landscape and identify strategic projects that could position APECO as an emerging hub for trade, industry, and logistics along the country’s eastern seaboard.
Joining the delegation were Teofilo T. Arriola of Philippine Pharma Procurement Inc., Enrico L. Basilio, director of the Center for Policy and Executive Development of the University of the Philippines National College of Public Administration and Governance, and Ronilo Balbieran, vice president and head of research of the REID Foundation.
The activity was supported by the Department of Trade and Industry Aurora Provincial Office, led by Provincial Director Aldrin M. Veneracion, together with Business Development Division Head Bryan Omar D. Sardea and Trade-Industry Development Specialist Judelyn L. Peneyra.
During the visit, the delegation toured several key facilities within the APECO complex, including the Super Health Center, the Central Water System and Reservoir, and the APECO Airstrip. The group also inspected the proposed site for an international seaport at Bangas Point and the existing Dibacong Port operated by the Philippine Ports Authority.
APECO officials also showcased tourism destinations in Northern Aurora, highlighting their potential to complement the area’s industrial and logistics development.
A technical planning workshop was conducted during the visit, bringing together officials from DTI-SCLG, DTI Aurora, and APECO to discuss development strategies for the ecozone. Discussions focused on strengthening logistics infrastructure, improving supply chain systems, and identifying investment opportunities in sectors such as fisheries, renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, defense, data centers, and high-end tourism.
APECO expressed appreciation to DTI-SCLG and partner institutions for their support in advancing logistics development initiatives aimed at improving connectivity, attracting investments, and unlocking Aurora’s potential as a strategic gateway along the eastern seaboard.
DTI Aurora likewise reaffirmed its commitment to support APECO through investment promotion, supply chain initiatives, and stronger coordination with national and local stakeholders to help realize the ecozone’s development plans and expand economic opportunities for the province.
