BALER, Aurora (PIA) — The Aurora ecozone has emerged as a vibrant communal space with the launch of its Christmas Village, giving residents of Casiguran and nearby communities a renewed sense of hope and unity.
With its official opening, the ecozone has been established as a safe and accessible venue where residents can gather, celebrate, and strengthen community ties amid the continuing challenges posed by frequent natural calamities such as tropical cyclones.
Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) President and Chief Executive Officer Gil Taway IV said the initiative provides residents with venues for recreation and social interaction as communities rebuild homes and livelihoods.
“Through the Christmas Village, we hope to offer moments of joy, togetherness, and relief. This is APECO’s way of standing with our people as we heal and rise together this holiday season,” he said.
The Christmas Village features a mercato, food stalls, and weekend entertainment, all designed to support small businesses and boost local tourism.
Vendors are provided rent-free stalls to help empower micro-entrepreneurs and community groups by increasing foot traffic and expanding market access.
Meanwhile, Taway encouraged residents and visitors to support local vendors, emphasizing that strong community participation is vital to the long-term success of recovery efforts.
Located along the Pacific seaboard, Aurora is among the provinces frequently affected by tropical cyclones, underscoring the need for sustained community support and recovery initiatives.
In response, the ecozone is envisioned as a continuing space for community activities, livelihood opportunities, and tourism initiatives that help residents rebuild, reconnect, and move forward together toward sustainable development. (CLJD/MAT, PIA Region 3-Aurora)
