The Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) is aiming to lure investments from Czech Republic in transforming the town of Casiguran as the country’s hub for manufacturing of defense-related products.

APECO Business Development and Marketing Chief Gene Angelo Ferrer told the Philippine News Agency Friday that the investment promotion agency’s (IPA) officials target to hold another investment mission to Prague within the year as a follow-through of their visit in November 2024.

The IPA said it gained the support of Philippine Ambassador to Czech Republic Eduardo Meñez in making the ecozone in Casiguran as the country’s first defense manufacturing hub.

“APECO’s initiative is a crucial step toward strengthening our nation’s defense capabilities, in ensuring the security of our people,” Meñez said during the IPA officials courtesy call to the envoy in Prague.

APECO added that the Philippine Embassy in Prague is working closely with the Czech government, chambers of commerce, and business groups to explore avenues for cooperation, including in defense technology and capacity building.

APECO has aligned its development goals with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s development agenda for national security, food security, and energy security.

APECO President and Chief Executive Officer Gil Taway said developing a defense hub in Casiguran will stimulate economic growth in the eastern border of Luzon, create jobs and opportunities for local businesses, and develop the much-needed infrastructure in this region.

“APECO’s current direction not only strengthens the Philippines’s defense capabilities but also contributes to a more secure and prosperous future for the region. To invest in APECO is to develop the Philippines,” Taway said.

“It is about time we work together in developing the country’s national defense capability against threats to our sovereignty and territorial integrity, to resist those who skirt the norms of international order by throwing around their military weight,” he added.

He said APECO’s initiative is in support of the strategic guidance and direction of Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. to develop and enhance the country’s military strength.

“We stand ready to support this with the safe harbors of APECO and Casiguran open for our fleet and allies as part of our Archipelagic Defense doctrine,” Taway said. (PNA)