TAGUIG CITY — International Workplace Group (IWG), a global leader in flexible office and workspace solutions, is entering the management of healthcare facilities for the first time through a partnership with the Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO).
APECO President Atty. Gil G. Taway IV and IWG Philippines Country Manager Rowena Natividad led the signing of partnership agreement in Taguig City on Tuesday (Sept. 23) to operate the Super Health Center in Casiguran, Aurora.
The partnership marks IWG’s first venture outside its core business of flexible workspaces, expanding its portfolio to manage a medical suite—a first of its kind in IWG’s global operations.
Under the partnership, IWG will oversee day-to-day operations of the Super Health Center, bringing global standards of efficiency, facility management, and patient care to the public health facility that was funded by APECO.
Last February, the investment promotion agency completed the PHP16.83-million Super Health Center to provide health care services to its future locators and the community while preparing the ecozone for “Silver Town” or retirement facilities investments.
“For IWG to choose APECO as the site for this pioneering business model reflects the rising confidence of global companies in Bagong APECO,” said APECO President and CEO Atty. Gil G. Taway IV. “This partnership shows that we can deliver world-class services through public-private collaboration while maximizing our existing infrastructure.”
PCEO Taway added that the partnership with the global firm lays the foundation for future collaborations that connect Aurora and the Philippines to the broader international investment landscape.
APECO, whose mandate is to spur economic development in Aurora, is pursuing what PCEO Taway calls a “bold, proactive strategy” to attract international partners. The agency is seeking to unlock public assets by inviting private companies to co-develop facilities, pursue joint ventures, and explore public-private partnerships (PPPs), rather than relying solely on government funding.
“Aurora is a strategic economic zone, situated along the eastern seaboard of the Philippines. It offers direct access to international logistics and opens up opportunities for increased economic activity. Known for its pristine beaches and natural beauty, Aurora is an ideal location for establishing a medical facility that promotes wellness, care, and treatment. This development will not only complement the area’s appeal but also provide the local community with much-needed access to high-quality healthcare services,” Ms. Natividad said.
“With growing demand for quality healthcare and limited infrastructure, this partnership is a vital step in bridging the gap—bringing real benefits to the community through IWG’s strong network and resources,” she added.
The deal comes amid a resurgence of investor interest in APECO, drawing attention from both domestic and foreign players.
IWG’s move is seen as a signal of growing foreign investor interest in Aurora, a province northeast of Manila, being positioned as a new hub for growth and innovation under APECO’s revitalized leadership.
The global firm is also looking into bringing its core business model of managing co-working flexible workspaces within the ecozone. (Manny D. Balbin)
