MANILA -- Proponents of the Aurora Pacific Economic Zone (APECO) said they will fight tooth and nail for the realization of the P434-million development project despite issues raised by critics.

Mon Fernando, APECO deputy administrator, said the pristine coastline and virgin forests of Aurora will be protected, contrary to what critics believe.

“The project will be a catalyst for growth in the region, comprising Aurora, Quirino, Quezon, Nueva Viscaya and Isabela,” he said.

“APECO is genuine empowerment of local government units. Aurora and its nearby provinces in the northeast seaboard are the definitive winners in this project,” Fernando added.

The official also debunked claims that residents and the Dumagat tribesmen were not consulted in the project which aims to transform northeastern Luzon into an industrial, cultural, maritime and corporate hub.

Fernando said 10 representatives of the Dumagat tribe, four of whom are chieftains, expressed their support to eco-zone goals in a recent Senate budget hearing.

Casiguran Mayor Rey Bitong, APECO board member, also took part in the planning stage. (Virgil Lopez/Sunnex)