SBMA Authorizes SBITC to Collect Wharfage Fees at Port of Subic

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and the Subic Bay International Terminal Corporation (SBITC) have formalized an agreement authorizing SBITC to collect wharfage fees on behalf of SBMA from port clients.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño and SBITC Head of Management Services and Government Affairs Henry Dungca signed the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on July 29, 2026, at SBMA’s Building 662. The partnership aims to streamline payment processes through SBITC’s online payment platforms.

Aliño emphasized the benefits of the new system, stating, “This arrangement will minimize face-to-face interactions, eliminate the need for clients to travel to SBMA’s cashier, and reduce waiting times for fee processing. Ultimately, it simplifies doing business at the Port of Subic.”

He added, “The MOA strengthens our public-private collaboration, securing essential revenue to sustain port operations, infrastructure, and future investments. It also reinforces Subic Bay’s status as a top logistics hub. It boosts investor confidence as we advance plans for the Luzon Economic Corridor, integrating Subic, Clark, Manila, and Batangas into a seamless trade gateway.”

Dungca highlighted the operational impact, saying, “SBITC will collect wharfage fees on behalf of SBMA and ensure transparent, accountable remittances. This partnership goes beyond payment collection; it enhances service speed, simplifies procedures, and improves the overall experience for all port users.”

SBMA oversees the regulatory framework within the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, while SBITC, a subsidiary of International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI), manages the New Container Terminals (NCT-1 and NCT-2). Last October, SBMA granted SBITC a 25-year concession extension, allowing them to operate the terminals through 2058.

This initiative aligns with SBMA’s adoption of a payment collection system similar to that implemented by the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), in which port operators collect fees on the government’s behalf. (MPD-SBMA) 

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Subic Bay Freeport bags “Destination of the Year Award”

Living up to its reputation as the “go-to” destination for athletes and sports organizers, this premier Freeport bagged the “Destination of the Year Award” for 2025 during the 7th Philippine Sports Tourism Awards held at the Manila Marriott Hotel in Metro Manila on August 24, 2026. 

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño received the award along with SBMA Tourism Department Manager Mary Jamelle Camba and Division Chief Raquel J. Delos Reyes.

“We have carried forward what our predecessors have built upon, and we will ensure that Subic Bay Freeport remains the top destination in sports tourism in the country. Our goal right now for the SBMA is to further push the boundaries of sports tourism in Subic Freeport,” Aliño said.

In 2025, Subic Bay hosted major international and local sports tourism events anchored by major triathlons and running races. This included the Century Tuna IRONMAN 70.3 Subic Bay, held from June 12 to 15, 2025, which drew over 1,000 international and local athletes.

Philippine Sports Tourism Alliance (PSTA) President and Founder Charles Lim, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman Pato Gregorio, and Department of Tourism (DOT) Undersecretary Shalimar Tamano presented the award to Aliño and the SBMA officials. 

“This win belongs to our entire community—our partner organizers, stakeholders, athletes, and spectators who bring unstoppable energy to Subic Bay time and time again!” SBMA Tourism Manager Camba said. 

Other winners during the 7th Philippine Sports Tourism Awards were City of Puerto Princesa as the “Emerging Destination of the Year;” New Clark City as the “Venue of the Year;” Sports Tourism Forum - SMX Clark as the “MICE Event of the Year;” and Cynthia Lagdameo Carrion as “Sports Tourism Personality of the Year.”

Meanwhile, STA President Lim said, “A massive thank you to our key partners, guests, and sponsors for making this milestone event a resounding success: the Philippine Sports Commission, Sports Turismo Alliance, Manila Marriott Hotel, NUSTAR Resort, Universal Robina Corporation, and Clark Development Corporation President & CEO Atty. Agnes VST Devanadera.”

“Congratulations to all the awardees! Your vision, passion, and commitment continue to elevate the Philippines as a world-class sports tourism hub. Here’s to shaping the future of Philippine sports and travel together!” he added.

Sports tourism is a rapidly growing industry in the Philippines, driven by government initiatives, world-class hosting events, and diverse regional destinations. 

Subic Bay is the top award-winning sports tourism hub in the Philippines, famous for hosting major endurance, water, and track events, including the Century Tuna Ironman 70.3, Chairman's Cup Regatta, and Beach Pro Tour Future Volleyball. (MPD-SBMA)

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SBMA Port Operations revenue grows 8% in H1 2026 amid global economic headwinds

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) disclosed a robust 8% increase in consolidated gross revenue from its Port Operations Group, reaching Php 874 million in the first half of 2026, compared to Php 806 million in the same period last year.

This growth was propelled by stronger earnings in the Seaport and Trade Facilitation and Compliance Department (TFCD), despite ongoing global economic challenges.

SBMA Deputy Administrator III for Operations Group, Ronnie Yambao, attributed the positive performance to strategic initiatives that balanced growth with stakeholder support. “We successfully navigated a complex global environment while implementing discount measures totaling approximately Php 81 million. These were aligned with Executive Order No. 110 of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., aimed at mitigating disruptions caused by the fuel supply crisis linked to the Middle East conflict,” Yambao explained.

Breaking down the revenue contributions for H1 2026:

• The Seaport Department continued to be the primary revenue driver, contributing 78% of the consolidated gross income with Php 683 million—marking a 10% increase year-on-year. This growth was largely fueled by an 18% rise in non-containerized cargo, particularly bulk and break-bulk shipments, which surged 24%. 

• Subic Bay International Airport accounted for 14% of the revenue, registering a slight 3% decrease due to lower leasing activities and reduced military logistics operations.

• SBMA's Trade Facilitation and Compliance Department recorded an impressive 17% revenue increase, boosted by the newly implemented Registration Certificate (RC) Policy, which introduced additional fees on trucks, heavy equipment, and regulated goods. 

The notable increase in non-containerized cargo was further supported by an 88% surge in rice imports. This import growth was driven by proactive government measures to secure rice stocks ahead of the anticipated El Niño weather phenomenon.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) emphasized the critical importance of maintaining sufficient rice inventories in response to potential climate-related production impacts.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose Aliño highlighted the Agency’s resilience and adaptability amid a challenging environment. “Our first-half results underscore the strength and flexibility of the Port Operations Group. We remain committed to not only sustaining growth but also delivering impactful measures to mitigate external disruptions, in line with the President’s directives,” Aliño said.

The SBMA continues to strengthen its role as a key logistics and supply chain hub, supporting the nation’s economic stability and growth despite global uncertainties. (MPD-SBMA)

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SBMA achieves ISO 45001 certification from DQS

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has further solidified its commitment to excellence and workplace safety by earning the prestigious ISO 45001:2018 certification from DQS Philippines.

The official awarding ceremony took place on Monday morning, August 3, 2026, at the SBMA corporate boardroom, Building 662. Presenting the certification was DQS Philippines Managing Director Romeo Zamora.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño expressed pride and resolve in accepting the certification. “I stand proud of all of you for this achievement. Securing another ISO certificate is more than an institutional milestone—it is a sincere public service commitment. This recognition is for the people; undertake it with dedication and heart,” Aliño said.

He emphasized the importance of not only obtaining certifications but also upholding the standards conscientiously. “The true value lies in implementing these standards earnestly and consistently—not only for the agency but for our country, our locators, workers, and the community we serve.”

The ISO 45001:2018 certification establishes a robust Occupational Health and Safety Management System (OHSMS) that enables organizations to identify and mitigate workplace risks, prevent injuries, and enhance overall safety.

SBMA has previously received ISO 9001:2018 certification for Quality Management Systems and ISO 14001:2018 for Environmental Management Systems from DQS Philippines, underscoring its comprehensive compliance with international standards.

Romeo Zamora acknowledged the enduring partnership between the SBMA and DQS Philippines, highlighting their joint commitment to continuous improvement. 

“It is an honor to support the SBMA in achieving certification across QMS, EMS, and OHSMS. We look forward to further fostering this partnership to support effective management system implementation,” Zamora said.

Operating as the local representative of the German-based DQS Group, DQS Philippines brings an extensive global network spanning 60 countries to its certification services.

SBMA Total Quality Management Office (TQMO) Lead Auditor Lolita Bondoc announced that the SBMA is the first Freeport authority in the Philippines to secure three key ISO certifications. The agency is also preparing to integrate these management systems into a unified framework by 2028.

In recognition of the pivotal role of internal auditors, the agency honored personnel responsible for maintaining rigorous internal audit programs that ensure compliance and readiness for third-party evaluations.

Chairman Aliño concluded, “For government employees, adhering to these standards is essential. I salute the dedicated men and women whose efforts made this achievement possible.” (30)

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Potential investments expected in Subic Freeport following visit of Thai biz delegation

A delegation of Thai business leaders, led by Her Excellency Makawadee Sumitmor, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to the Philippines, recently visited Subic Bay Freeport (SBF) to explore promising investment opportunities in this strategic economic zone.

The delegation was warmly received by Eduardo Jose L. Aliño, Chairman and Administrator of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), who highlighted the region's strategic location within the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC) and its potential as a hub for trade and industry.

On 26 July 2026, at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC), members of the Thai business delegation met with SBMA’s Business and Investment Group (BIG) officers to discuss avenues for collaboration and potential investments in the SBF.

Ambassador Sumitmor emphasized the strong investment potential for Thai companies in sectors such as energy, logistics, technology, digital innovation, and various service industries. Representatives from the Thai embassy, the delegation, and PTT Philippines Corporation expressed optimism about future partnerships.

The delegation also toured key facilities and businesses within the Freeport, identifying strategic areas for investment in the LEC. PTT Philippines Corporation, a leading oil and energy company and a wholly owned subsidiary of Thailand’s PTT Oil and Retail Business Public Company Limited (PTT OR), serves as a strong foundation for expanding Thai ventures within the region.

The Subic Bay Freeport Zone plays a crucial role as a western maritime gateway in the Luzon Economic Corridor, linking major economic centers including Subic, Clark, Manila, and Batangas. The LEC initiative aims to enhance infrastructure and logistics, fostering greater connectivity through substantial planned investments.

Thailand is actively pursuing opportunities in trade, logistics, and manufacturing within the Philippines’ LEC. The relative proximity of Subic Bay to Thailand, accessible by sea within three to four days, offers significant logistical advantages for Thai businesses seeking regional expansion.

Current Thai investments, exemplified by PTT Philippines, set the stage for expanded engagement across the corridor’s energy and freeport sectors, signaling growing bilateral economic cooperation. (30)

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HD Hyundai launches first Subic-built ship, marks return of large-scale shipbuilding

South Korean shipbuilding giant HD Hyundai Heavy Industries Philippines (HHIP) has launched its first vessel built in Subic, marking a major milestone in the revival of large-scale shipbuilding at the former Hanjin shipyard.

The Orion Jade, a 115,000-ton crude oil and product tanker, was launched on July 28 at the Agila Subic Shipyard in Redondo Peninsula, less than a year after HD Hyundai formally began shipbuilding operations at the sprawling facility.

Measuring 250 meters long, 42 meters wide and 21 meters deep, the vessel is the first ship fully constructed by HHIP at the Subic facility and signals the Korean shipbuilder's push to establish Subic as a major manufacturing base in Southeast Asia.

The vessel is also the first of four ships ordered by an Asia-based shipping company, with construction of the program beginning following the steel-cutting ceremony in September 2025.

HHIP President Im Dae Jun described the launch as a historic milestone for the company as it ramps up operations at the Subic shipyard.

The launching was witnessed by Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go, Republic of Korea Ambassador Lee Sang-hwa, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño, Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno, Botolan Mayor Jun Omar Ebdane and Olongapo City Mayor Rolen Paulino Jr., among other government and industry officials.

Go said the completion of the Orion Jade demonstrated how foreign investment commitments could translate into actual industrial projects, jobs and expanded manufacturing capability.

“The Orion Jade launch is a testament to our commitment to delivering projects that create quality jobs, enhance industrial capacity, and generate meaningful economic opportunities for Filipinos,” Go said.

Aliño, meanwhile, said the project reflected growing investor confidence in the Subic Bay Freeport and cited incentives provided under the CREATE MORE Law, or Republic Act No. 12066, as among the factors helping attract major investments.

The launch also represents a significant turnaround for the massive Subic shipbuilding facility, which is now being brought back into large-scale vessel production under HD Hyundai.

At the heart of the facility is a 550-meter dry dock, the largest in the Philippines, which will enable HHIP to build at least 10 ships annually beginning next year, according to SBMA.

Korean Ambassador Lee said the Filipino-built vessel also symbolized the expanding maritime and industrial partnership between South Korea and the Philippines.

“Maritime cooperation between our countries continues to grow, further strengthening mutual trust and sharing a promising future,” Lee said.

The project has already generated around 4,000 jobs, with HHIP planning to further expand its workforce as shipbuilding operations increase. The company has also partnered with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority to develop training programs aimed at supplying skilled workers for the growing shipyard operations.

The Orion Jade's completion places Subic once again on the map of large-scale commercial shipbuilding, years after shipbuilding operations at the former Hanjin facility ceased.

For Subic, the launch marks not simply the completion of another vessel, but the return of an industry that had once made the Freeport one of the country's major shipbuilding centers. (SNL)

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US Pledges Over $100 Million for Subic Bay Infrastructure Upgrades

The United States has committed to delivering more than $100 million in new foreign assistance to upgrade infrastructure in Subic Bay, following a meeting between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Manila on July 22.

The commitment was disclosed by U.S. State Department Spokesperson Tommy Pigott. The funding, to be pursued in coordination with the U.S. Congress, is intended to advance logistics and energy projects in Subic as part of the broader Luzon Economic Corridor, a trilateral infrastructure initiative involving the United States, Japan and the Philippines that links Subic Bay, Clark, Manila and Batangas.

A State Department fact sheet released in connection with Rubio's broader Southeast Asia trip specified that the funding will support upgrades to port facilities in Subic and a fuel storage terminal with a capacity exceeding 120 million liters.

The Subic pledge was raised in the same meeting in which Rubio and Marcos discussed the Philippines' expanding role in Pax Silica, a U.S.-led initiative to build secure semiconductor and artificial intelligence supply chains among allied nations. 

According to the State Department, the two leaders also discussed the Philippines hosting Pax Silica's first Economic Security Zone, an AI and advanced manufacturing hub planned for New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac, separate from the Subic infrastructure funding.

The Port of Subic was recently identified as the logistics gateway for the Pax Silica initiative, positioning the Subic Bay Freeport to support the supply chain network the program is intended to build among participating countries.

The Subic funding announcement was made in the context of the corridor's upcoming inaugural Luzon Economic Corridor Investment Forum, scheduled for September, which the State Department readout said was also discussed during the meeting.

The State Department readout also noted that Rubio and Marcos discussed freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea, the tenth anniversary of the 2016 Arbitral Award, and a five-year Health Strategic Objective Agreement between the two countries. (SNL)

Source: U.S. Department of State, Office of the Spokesperson (readouts and fact sheet, July 2026).

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SBMA releases ₱218-M revenue shares to contiguous LGUs

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) released a total of ₱218,115,671.26 in revenue shares to eight local government units (LGUs) contiguous to this premier freeport zone.

 

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño said that this amount released on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, represents the revenue shares for the first semester of 2026, which is 10.24 percent higher than that of last year’s comparative period. 

 

The recipient LGUs are Olongapo City, the municipalities of Subic, San Marcelino, Castillejos, and San Antonio in Zambales, and the towns of Dinalupihan, Hermosa, and Morong in Bataan.

 

Taking into account the population and land area, Olongapo was allocated the largest amount of ₱50,420,165.72, received by Olongapo City Mayor Atty. Rolen Paulino, Jr.

This was followed by Subic, Zambales, which received ₱32,871,521.46, accepted on behalf of Mayor Jonathan John Khonghun.

 

The remaining LGUs received their allocations as follows: Dinalupihan, Bataan, with ₱27,438,313.68, accepted on behalf of Mayor German Santos, Jr.; San Marcelino, Zambales, with ₱26,272,445.97, received by Mayor Elvis Soria; Hermosa, Bataan, with ₱23,422,520.27, accepted on behalf of Mayor Atty. Anne Adorable-Inton; Castillejos, Zambales, with ₱19,817,470.23, received on behalf of Mayor Jeffrey Khonghun; Morong, Bataan, with ₱19,340,287.10, received on behalf of Mayor Leila Linao-Muñoz; and San Antonio, Zambales, with ₱18,532,946.83, received by Mayor Dr. Arvin Antipolo.

The LGU shares are sourced from five percent corporate taxes paid by business locators in the Subic Bay Freeport. They are distributed among LGUs based on population (50%), land area (25%), and equal sharing (25%).

OIC-Deputy Administrator for Finance Editha Marzal, along with the finance team, led the distribution of the LGU shares.

 

Marzal noted that the net shares distributed to the LGUs include not only the current collection period’s allocations but also the 10 percent retention withheld during the first semester of the 2024 distribution.

 

According to Republic Act No. 9400, which amends RA 7227 or the Bases Conversion and Development Act of 1992, the SBMA is mandated to allocate two percent out of the five percent of gross income earned to LGU shares. (MPD-SBMA)

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Subic Bay Named Preferred Maritime Gateway for Pax Silica Initiative

 

Subic Bay is set to play a central role in one of the region's biggest emerging supply-chain projects. 

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) have agreed to make the Port of Subic the preferred maritime gateway for Pax Silica, a US-led coalition working to secure global supply chains for artificial intelligence and semiconductors.

The Agreement

The partnership was sealed on July 20, 2026, when SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño and BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang signed a Memorandum of Understanding at the Bonifacio Technology Center in BGC, Taguig City.

For SBMA, the designation is a significant vote of confidence. Aliño called it a "crowning recognition" of the port's potential role within the Luzon Economic Corridor 

The SBMA Chairman noted that Subic Bay's deep-water port and shipyard facilities are built to move raw materials like nickel and copper efficiently, while also shuttling processed tech goods to and from the AI-native Economic Security Zone (ESZ) in New Clark City.

Bingcang echoed that outlook, describing the port as a strategic linchpin — one that can bring raw materials into the country and move finished products out to customers just as efficiently. 

He tied the partnership to the Marcos administration's broader push for a whole-of-government approach to infrastructure and investment, framing it as a way to strengthen the Luzon Economic Corridor by knitting together ports, industrial hubs, and emerging tech ecosystems — and, in turn, generate jobs and long-term opportunities for Filipinos.

Also on hand for the signing were SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator for Operations Ronnie Yambao and BCDA Senior Vice President for Legal Services Atty. Diana Joyce N. Basco-Galera.

What Happens Next

The MOU sets a substantial amount of groundwork in motion. SBMA will need to identify and evaluate land and port areas under its jurisdiction that could support Pax Silica operations, while also assessing the infrastructure, utilities, logistics, and port support the initiative will require.

Beyond that, both agencies plan to look at land-use compatibility and traffic connectivity with their existing and planned development blueprints, and to share non-confidential information to help coordinate infrastructure planning. 

Market sounding, logistics demand analysis, and potential development phasing are also on the agenda, along with exploring possible cooperation models or future project structures — all within the bounds of existing laws and policy.

The Bigger Picture: What Is Pax Silica?

Pax Silica launched in December 2025 as a US-led strategic coalition aimed at shoring up global supply chains for AI and semiconductor technology. 

With more than 30 partner nations involved, the initiative is largely framed as a counterweight to China's dominance in tech manufacturing and rare earth minerals — and Subic Bay's new role gives the Philippines a direct stake in that effort. (SNL)

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More potential business opportunities in Subic Freeport after US trade mission

A United States delegation is eyeing more potential business opportunities here as part of a profile business mission in line with the initiatives of the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC). 

According to SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño, the delegates from the U.S. Northeast, Midwest, and West Coast regions visited on July 8, 2026 to participate in the said business mission that will strengthen partnerships, expand business opportunities, and foster a prosperous future for both U.S. and Philippine enterprises.

With the theme “Driving the Future of U.S.–Philippine Trade Through Innovation,” Aliño said that the mission reflects the SBMA's commitment to enhancing international cooperation and economic growth within the Subic special economic zone.

The delegation, composed of 25 executives and investors, conducted comprehensive discussions, site visits, and networking activities with SBMA officials and Subic company officials, all designed to showcase the potential and advantages of investing in the SBFZ. 

Subic Bay Freeport Chamber of Commerce (SBFCC) President Benjamin Antonio III, together with SBFCC Executive Director Donna May Tamayo also joined to take part in a rare opportunity to build strong, lasting business relationships that will drive economy not only in the Subic special economic zone but ultimately the country as a whole.

The Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) in New York, the facilitator of the said U.S. Business Mission to the Philippines, said that the main goal of the trip is to create stronger economic ties and encourage more US companies to invest in the country’s growing economy.

Aside from Subic Bay Freeport, the delegation also visited areas in Manila, Clark, and Corregidor Island to conduct business meetings, informational briefings, and tours of these major economic areas that are part of the LEC.

“The trip comes at a time when the Philippines is actively working to welcome international businesses and establish itself as a key partner for US companies looking to grow in Asia,” the PTIC said.

Officials from Worldwide Shipping & Logistics (WSL), who were also part of the delegation, said that these engagements strengthened economic cooperation and opened new opportunities for trade and investment between the United States and the Philippines.

WSL Co-Founder Mrs. Richelyn Toth and General Manager Ms. Sherilyn Mecinas were among the 25 delegates who participated in high-level meetings, investment discussions, site visits, and strategic networking opportunities with leaders from government, industry, and the private sector. 

The said business mission follows the Philippines’ inclusion in the Washington-backed Pax Silica bloc — an initiative aimed at securing global artificial intelligence (AI) supply chains.

As part of Pax Silica, the Philippines and the US announced in April, plans to develop a 1,618-hectare AI-native hub in New Clark City in Tarlac, which is expected to attract investment in AI and chip manufacturing. (MPD-SBMA) 

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Subic Bay Marks 10 Years of the South China Sea Arbitral Award with a Fleet-Wide Water Salute

Subic Bay was the scene of a striking maritime tribute on Sunday, July 12, as the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) took part in the national commemoration of the 10th anniversary of the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award. 

Twenty-eight vessels gathered in the bay for a coordinated water salute, joining similar observances happening across the country.

The tribute unfolded at 10:00 a.m. in front of the SBMA Administration Building. Six tugboats took center stage, spraying arcs of water into the air in a synchronized display, while all 28 participating vessels sounded their horns together in a shared moment of tribute to the landmark ruling.

The fleet itself told its own story of cooperation: eight Philippine Navy vessels, two United States Navy ships, three MARINA-accredited vessels, a squadron of tugboats, and a handful of commercial cargo ships that opted in voluntarily to stand in solidarity with the observance.

Answering a National Call

According to SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator for Operations Ronnie Yambao, the event came together after the Presidential Office for Maritime Concerns called on agencies nationwide to take part. Once SBMA received the directive, its Seaport Department moved quickly, reaching out to maritime stakeholders and partners to pull together the day's roster of vessels.

Yambao described the salute as a gesture of remembrance and respect — a way for SBMA to stand with the rest of the country in honoring a ruling that has shaped the Philippines' maritime story. He credited the Seaport team's coordination for bringing so many vessels together on short notice.

A Statement Beyond Symbolism

For SBMA, the participation carried weight beyond ceremony. As a government-owned and controlled corporation and one of the country's leading port authorities, the agency framed its involvement as a demonstration of support for national efforts to uphold international maritime law.

That message was echoed from the top: SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño pointed to the importance of respecting the rules-based international order, framing the day as a reaffirmation of the Philippines' commitment to the peaceful, lawful use of its maritime territory.

Part of a Bigger Picture

Subic Bay's water salute was one piece of a broader nationwide commemoration marking a decade since the arbitral ruling affirmed the Philippines' maritime entitlements under international law. 

Beyond the spectacle of tugboats and horns, the day underscored something less visible but arguably more important: the ongoing cooperation between government agencies, the maritime industry, and international partners in defending peace, stability, and the rule of law in Philippine waters. (SNL)

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Govt agencies, environmental groups to forge partnership to address e-waste problem in Subic

 

Manila, Philippines – Government agencies and environmental groups held an inter-agency meeting at the Manila International Container Port (MICP) on July 6, 2026, to discuss matters concerning shipments of electronic waste (e-waste) into the Subic Bay Freeport Zone ( SBFZ).

Bureau of Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno said the meeting is part of the Agency’s efforts to resolve the e-waste issue, which environmental groups allege violates the Basel Convention, an international treaty adopted in 1989 to prevent wealthy nations from dumping toxic, explosive, and electronic waste in developing countries.

The inter-agency meeting initiated by the BOC was attended by the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG), the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), as well as non-government organizations (NGOs) such as the EcoWaste Coalition and BAN Toxics.

The meeting focused on identifying appropriate courses of action and coordinating its next steps to address the issue. Participating agencies and organizations agreed to submit their position papers to facilitate a comprehensive evaluation of available legal, regulatory, and policy options. Discussions also covered measures to strengthen existing mechanisms and prevent similar future incidents.

According to Ban Toxics, Task Force End E-Waste Imports was created to stop the purported waste dumping by the United States (US) in Subic Bay Freeport.

The task force cited that since March 2025, 234 containers of suspected e-waste and a container van of plastic waste have been monitored as illegally shipped from the US into the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

Meanwhile, SBMA OIC-Deputy Administrator (DA) for Regulatory Amethya Dela Llana assured that the companies importing e-waste here obtained Importation Clearance (IC) from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources - Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB).

Since the US is one of only five United Nations member states that have not ratified the Basel Convention, the Task Force End E-Waste Imports said that companies importing from the US violate the Basel Convention.

Dela Llana added that the SBMA follows DENR Administrative Order No. 2013-22 (DAO 2013-22), the official policy regulating the “Revised Procedures and Standards for the Management of Hazardous Wastes” in the Philippines.

It serves as the procedural manual for implementing Title III of Republic Act No. 6969 (Toxic Substances and Hazardous and Nuclear Wastes Control Act of 1990).

Under Chapter 10 of DAO 2013-22, the order permits the importation of specific “recyclable materials”—such as electronic assemblies, scrap metals, and scrap plastics—but only if they are not contaminated by highly toxic components like lead, cadmium, mercury, or PCBs.

A Manila court order also ruled in favor of e-waste importation via the Subic Special Economic Zone. The court declared Subic a separate customs territory, which allows private importers to operate freely under DAO 2013-22.

During the meeting, the BOC cited that the Port of Subic is legally bound to comply with the decision and is constrained from taking further action beyond what the law permits. The BOC added that all actions taken by the Port of Subic have been in accordance with court rulings and existing laws, balancing customs enforcement with respect for the judicial process.

Commissioner Nepomuceno encouraged all agencies to remain steadfast in carrying out their respective regulatory functions despite the pending legal proceedings. The dialogue among government agencies and advocacy groups shall continue until a clear and lawful resolution is reached.

The participating agencies and environmental groups reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining close coordination, ensuring that all actions are consistent with existing laws, regulations, and national policies on environmental protection and responsible waste management. (MPD-SBMA)

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DICT, SBMA lead GovNet site Subic Bay launch

In its thrust to boost connectivity between 47 government agencies for faster communication, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) launched the Government Network (GovNet) Project in this premier Freeport.

Held at the Best Western Hotel on June 24, the GovNet interconnects national government agencies, local government units (LGUs), public schools, and state hospitals through a secure, high-speed fiber-optic network to streamline public services and data sharing.

“GovNet is more than infrastructure; it is the backbone of a unified digital ecosystem for government. As a high-speed interagency facility, it will connect 44 government agencies, ensuring faster communication, better coordination, quicker document processing, and easier access to online services,” SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño said.

Aliño said that GovNet will help modernize government operations and bring public services closer to the people, as the National Broadband Program (NBP) was created to bridge the digital divide, provide intervention policies, and infrastructure.

The National Broadband Plan (NBP) is the Philippine government’s strategic blueprint to build a nationwide digital infrastructure, accelerating the deployment of fiber optic cables and wireless technologies to provide universal, fast, reliable, and affordable internet services.

“Subic has long been recognized as a center for trade, logistics, investment, tourism, and innovation. But in today’s digital economy, roads, ports, and airports are no longer enough,” DICT Central Luzon Assistant Regional Director Atty. James Francis Villanueva said.

He added that digital infrastructure has become just as important as physical infrastructure, and through the GovNet, the department is helping to ensure that Subic Bay remains globally competitive and fully prepared for the opportunities of the digital economy.

The GovNet project provides a dedicated fiber-optic internet with bandwidth capacities reaching up to 10Gbps, which connects isolated agency databases to improve inter-agency communication and ease government transactions.

The said project eliminates the need for multiple, expensive individual ISP subscriptions by centralizing government network infrastructure. (MPD-SBMA)

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