APECO lures US war industry

APECO is leveraging its strategic position facing the Pacific Ocean as an alternative site for United States (US)-based defense firms seeking to expand their manufacturing capacity in the country.

- By DEXTER BARRO II

The Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) is leveraging its strategic position facing the Pacific Ocean as an alternative site for United States (US)-based defense firms seeking to expand their manufacturing capacity in the country.

APECO made this pitch during its engagements with delegates of the US-ASEAN Business Council (USABC) during last week’s US Aerospace, Defense, and Security (ADS) mission.

“APECO offers a strategic location where US defense companies can find room to grow, not in competition with Subic, but in complement to it,” said APECO President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Gil Taway IV in a statement.

“Together, these zones can strengthen the Philippines’ role in regional security and economic resilience,” he added.

APECO said it discussed with American business leaders the ecozone’s viability as a hub for warehousing, expansion projects, and defense-related services.