Angara backs Aurora ecozone as growth driver

MANILA, Philippines - Sen. Edgardo Angara is pushing the development of the Aurora Pacific Economic Zone (APECO) as an economic growth driver, pointing out that discussions on its creation give concerned parties the forum to air their views.

“We welcome this hearing and we are grateful for the participation of all parties concerned. It gives a chance for APECO to share its position as well as to clarify any misunderstanding and lingering doubts on the part of its oppositors,” he said.

The hearing was attended by APECO officials, members of the community, heads of barangays, indigenous peoples (IPs) and local officials.

Angara emphasized that the goal of APECO is to improve the livelihood of the people of Casiguran and nearby areas, as well as preserving its rich environment.

“APECO will pave the way for sustainable green industries that will give jobs and livelihood to Casiguranins and IPs. It will also preserve the natural environment. Mariculture, dairy, and coco coir are only a few examples of the industries being set up, which will employ locals and give alternative livelihood and additional income to the community,” he said.

He also stressed that there will be no displacement of residents and IPs, contrary to allegations by APECO’s oppositors.

“The manner of the resettlement is purely voluntary. It is just and humane. Unlike what APECO’s opposers claim, nobody is being forced to move. APECO will not affect the Dumagat settlements. I wish to disabuse the minds of APECO’s oppositors that it will take away people’s livelihood, when in fact it will provide them better living conditions and more sustainable livelihood,” he said.

APECO has designed a relocation and housing plan for the residents, allocating 23 hectares of land composed of 462 residential lots, 150 sq.m. each, elevated on stilts, with 36-40 sqm living space.

A community called “Nayon Kalikasan” is being put together with the support of Pag-IBIG and the National Housing Authority.

Angara said several locators have already shown interest in APECO, among them those in agro-industrial/aquaculture, domestic air transport services, eco-tourism enterprises, logistics, shuttle and cargo services, property development and real estate, port management, renewable energy providers, urban planners and wood processors.