AFP’s Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) chief, Lt. General Aristotle D. Gonzalez, PAF, conducted a visit to the Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) in Casiguran, Aurora, on December 3, 2025.

The visit of Gonzalez was part of ongoing efforts aligned with Republic Act No. 12024, otherwise known as the Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) Revitalization Program.

NOLCOM stated that the visit aimed to evaluate APECO’s strategic location, natural environment, and existing infrastructure to determine viable opportunities that align with national defense modernization and SRDP initiatives.

The action aims to explore the feasibility of developing APECO as a future hub for defense-related industries in Northern and Central Luzon.

During the engagement, APECO officials provided a comprehensive briefing on the ecozone’s current capabilities, development plans, and expansion prospects.

The discussion centered on how APECO’s location—situated along the Pacific seaboard and within the security umbrella of NOLCOM—can complement the AFP’s thrust to strengthen logistics resilience, promote local defense manufacturing, and support whole-of-nation development.

NOLCOM stated that the visit is a testament to its commitment to supporting interagency convergence and advancing government programs aimed at achieving defense self-reliance, economic development, and regional security.

“Through strengthened coordination with APECO, NOLCOM continues to champion initiatives that contribute to a more resilient and self-sustaining defense ecosystem for the nation.”