BALER, Aurora (PIA) – The Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) has acquired an additional 12-hectares of land in Barangay Esteves, Casiguran to support the transformation of its existing airstrip into a fully operational commercial airport.
Finalized in a ceremonial signing held in Quezon City, the Chua-Cham family donated 5.2 hectares—representing half of the airstrip area—and sold an additional 6.8 hectares to APECO.
APECO President and CEO Gil Taway IV said the land acquisition strengthens the agency’s push to modernize its infrastructure, noting that the ecozone’s development potential depends on the land it manages.
“In our continuing land acquisition efforts, we were left with higher rates beyond the zonal valuation. APECO, however, was able to acquire the property from the Chua Cham family at 50 percent less than the previous buying rate, which we consider highly advantageous to the government,” Taway furthered.
The commercial airport is expected to significantly improve access to Aurora and the northeastern Luzon economic corridor by enabling direct air connections for business travelers, investors, and cargo.
It will also stimulate local economic activity, enhance access to Aurora’s natural attractions, and create new livelihood and employment opportunities.
“The APECO Airport will not only serve as a gateway to Aurora but it will be a gateway to new opportunities for the Philippines,” Taway pressed.
Meanwhile, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) conducted a technical inspection of the airstrip in February 2025, resulting in recommendations that now guide APECO’s compliance process for securing a Permit to Operate.
APECO is actively coordinating with CAAP and other relevant agencies to fast-track regulatory approvals and begin development of the airport, which is a key component of its broader plan to position the ecozone as a hub for sustainable and inclusive growth. (CLJD/MAT, PIA Region 3-Aurora)
