The Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) has acquired 12 hectares of land in Esteves, Casiguran, Aurora for the development of a commercial airport.

In a statement Wednesday, APECO said its existing Airstrip would be developed into a commercial airport, connecting the ecozone to the global investment market.

President and chief executive officer Gil Taway IV signed an agreement with landowners Edward Chua Cham and Magdalena Chua Cham in Quezon City on June 17.

They also signed on behalf of George Chua Cham, brother of Edward Chua Cham.

Under the agreement, the Chua family donated 5.2 hectares of land to APECO and sold an additional 6.8 hectares.

The airport is expected to significantly improve accessibility to Aurora and the northeastern Luzon economic corridor.

The operationalization of the airport will help boost investments and trade by providing direct air links for business travelers, investors, and cargo, and will also open up APECO’s natural tourist attractions, attract more visitors and create livelihood and employment for local communities.

“APECO’s potential to do more depends on the amount of land we administer. 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 said.

“Their contribution strengthens our capacity to realize inclusive economic development for the people of Aurora. Their generosity is a testament to the growing public support APECO’s current direction, a powerful vote of confidence in our goal of Bagong APECO.”

In February 2025, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines inspected and assessed the condition of the Casiguran airstrip. The visit paved the way for recommendations for the issuance of a Permit to Operate.

“We are working with CAAP and other key agencies to fast-track this project. The Casiguran Airport will not only serve as a gateway to Aurora but it will be a gateway to new opportunities for the Philippines,” Taway said. (PNA)