Gov't enhances services; launches 'super apps' in Subic Freeport

As part of the ongoing efforts to enhance government services and improve the quality and turnaround time of official stakeholder transactions, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) launched the e-Gov and the e-LGU mobile applications at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC), Subic Bay Freeport on Tuesday, September 3.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño welcomed this game-changing initiative led by DICT Region 3 Director Antonio Edward Padre.

Aliño also lauded this undertaking as this will enhance government services and improve industry processes and transactions.

"The e-Gov 'super app' houses all government institutions in a single site, which will enable stakeholders to avail of government services faster and with less stress, less expenses, and less man hours. Lining up in queues will be reduced and hours spent for travel time may instead be utilized productively for other activities," he said in the speech read on his behalf by SBMA Management Information Systems Office manager Engr. Vergil Joseph Lansangan.

"Ultimately, this project hopes to eliminate corruption and red tape in government transactions since the platform will keep track of them and leave a clear audit record," he added.

Government Digital Transformation Bureau Director June Vincent Manuel Gaudan disclosed that this mobile app allows inclusivity and empowerment across the nation; no individual is left behind. Stakeholders will now have easy access to various government online services and information since all sites are being housed in a single mobile application, which covers all local and national levels of public agencies.

Gaudan added that the launching held in this premier Freeport is significant for the e-Gov app, citing that the Green Lanes of the app provides "Ease of Doing Business" for foreign companies looking into investing in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

He added that this is in line with Executive Order 18 or the Constituting Green Lanes for Strategic Investments policy, which is a government-wide response to enhance Ease of Doing Business by mandating the creation of Green Lane units in all government offices that will expedite, streamline and automate government processes for Strategic Investments.

"There are many processes and transactions that happens in Subic Bay Freeport that needs to be digitized for a more efficient way of conducting business here since the e-Gov integrates the multi-sectoral government services in a single platform, covering a wide range of local government services such as business permit licensing, community tax, local civil registry and many others," he said.

The launching on Tuesday was participated in by DICT officials, Zambales Governor's Office, Olongapo Mayor Rolen Paulino Jr., SBMA officials namely MIS manager Engr. Vergil Joseph Lansangan and Telecoms OIC Engr. Eddie Ventura, and National Government Portal Project Director Joshua Vazir Querol.

Secretary Ivan John Uy, USec David Almirol Jr., ASec. Maria Teresa Camba, Congressman Jefferson Khonghun' Chief of Staff Jan Joshua Khonghun, representative of Congresswoman Doris Maniquiz, Municipal Local Government Operations Officer Stephany Panaligan, ARTA Chief Admin Officer Mary Grace Manabat, USec. Mark Cristeo Gimenez, DTI R3 Director Edna Dizon, PSA Zambales Chief Statistics Specialist Norman Bundalian, FCSupt. Renato Capuz of BFP R3, and Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) PB Gen. Jose Hidalgo Jr.'s representative expressed their support for the e-Gov system.

Meanwhile, DICT Zambales Director Jeffrey Lazaro presented future plans that will affect the digitization of government services in Zambales.

The e-LGU system creates a single operating system for all government transactions to ensure ease of doing business, as part of the digital transformation of government towards more efficient, faster service delivery, and transparency across all localities in the country.

As mandated by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, the e-LGU is among the vital components of the DICT's e-Gov PH Super App.

Anchored on the Administration’s whole-of-government agenda, the e-LGU nationwide caravan is a joint project of the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the DICT. (MPD-SBMA)

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BPI sets up border control for agri products in Subic port

In its effort to provide a better and more efficient way to safeguard the agricultural industry in the country, the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) of the Department of Agriculture (DA) inaugurated its Plant Quarantine Service (PQS) office here Tuesday morning. 

DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel, Jr. and Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño led the inauguration of the National Plant Quarantine Services Division (NPQSD) office at the Subic Bay Freeport on Tuesday.

According to Laurel, the NPQSD office aims to prevent the entry of foreign pests into the country via the Subic port, contain and minimize the spread of pests already existing in the country, and comply with the phytosanitary requirements of trading partners. 

“Today, we are making substantial progress in our aim to guarantee the well-being of our agriculture industry and the prosperity of our farmers,” Laurel said.

“The establishment of this new office in Subic holds a significant importance due to its position as a prominent center for trade and logistics. Let us continuously improve our border control system with increased efficiency and effectiveness,” he added.

SBMA Chairman Aliño welcomed this gesture from the BPI’s NPQSD since it would help foil the smuggling of illegal agricultural products in the Freeport.

He added that the agencies involved, including the Bureau of Customs (BOC), are all working in line with President Marcos’ thrust to combat agricultural smuggling, providing a digitized government service, and ensuring proper border control.

DA BPI Director Gerald Glenn Panganiban has requested the BOC to order all imports of plant-based agricultural commodities go through the PQO at the respective ports for mandatory document verification and inspection.

Customs Memorandum Circular (CMC) No. 102-2024 signed on June 7 by Customs commissioner Bienvenido Rubio states that this is a requirement regardless of the categories that the plant-based agricultural commodities may fall under.

The procedure is in compliance with the provisions stated in DA’s Department Circular No. 4 series of 2016, which provides guidelines on the importation of plants, planting materials, and plant products for commercial purposes.

Under Article VI Section 23 of the DA circular, the plant commodities are subject to the existing procedures for inspection at the port of entry.

 The NPQSD cited that upon the arrival of the consignment, the importer should apply for inspection (BPI Q Form No. 4) at the PQS office in the port of entry. The importer should provide pertinent documents during inspection, while samples of the commodity will also be collected for laboratory analysis. (MPD-SBMA)

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Subic Freeport students bag 3rd place in robotics Olympiad

Elementary students from the Special Education for the Gifted (SPED-G) Kalayaan in this premier Freeport bagged Third place in the recent Philippine Robotics Olympiad held at the Ayala Malls Trinoma, Quezon City.

During the 23rd Philippine Robotics Olympiad, grade VI students namely, Anne Margarette Inton, Dru Triguero, and Zyrene Tantay placed third in the Future Innovators Category-Elementary Level.

The said three students are part of the Aerosense Team mentored by coaches Ma Alon Elago, John Lester Perez and Principal Abdon Bayle.

With the theme Earth Allies, the 23rd Philippine Robotics Olympiad Elementary Level RoboMission Finals was held on July 29 at the Felta Multimedia Center where the Aerosense Team displayed their robot, the Aerosense.

The Aerosense is an ESP32 Drone-Based System for an Environmental Real-Time Monitoring of Air Quality, Humidity and Temperature.

According to the team members, the Aerosense was developed to address critical environmental issues such as air pollution and climate change.

“With the rapid urbanization and industrialization of cities, there is a pressing need for effective environmental monitoring solutions,” the team members stated.

During the team’s courtesy call to the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño congratulated the members and coaches of Aerosense Team.

“We are very proud of your achievements. You have shown that the country’s best and brightest robotics students come from the Subic Bay Freeport Zone. Mabuhay po kayo sa inyong naabot,” he said. The chairman also congratulated SBMA Director Anne Lorraine Adorable Inton, the proud mother of Aerosense member Anne Margarette, for raising a bright and wonderful child.

The Philippine Robotics Olympiad is an annual science educational event that primarily aims to challenge the intellectual skills and critical thinking of elementary and high school students. (MPD-SBMA)

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SBMA, Subic companies augment equipment to control oil spill in Bataan

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and the Subic Freeport community have mobilized additional equipment to control the oil spill in Bataan.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño said that the SBMA has allowed the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to use its 160-meter spill boom last Friday to help contain the oil spill from the MT Terra Nova that sank off the waters of Limay town on Thursday.

Aliño said that the SBMA is willing to provide any assistance to the PCG by lending equipment from the agency’s Seaport Department. The SBMA helped the PCG provide the needed equipment at the Subic Bay Yacht Club (SBYC).

“We hope that they would also use it not just for the MT Terra Nova incident, but also for the MTKR Jason Bradley that sank on the coastal waters of Mariveles,” he added.

The SBMA conducted an emergency meeting thru Senior Deputy Administrator for Operations Ronnie Yambao last week to discuss the deployment of the oil spill boom using the PCG’s BRP Suluan.

Meanwhile, two towage companies were also tapped to assist in containing the oil spill from MT Terra Nova using their expertise, equipment, and tugboats. Yambao identified the companies as Harbor Star Shipping Services Inc. and Malayan Towage and Salvage Corp.

“The two companies have requested from the Operations Branch of the Seaport Department to exit the Port of Subic to respond to the oil spill in Limay,” he added.

Harbor Star Shipping Services Inc. mobilized siphoning equipment to extract at least 300,000 liters of industrial fuel oil (IFO). At least 50,000 liters of IFO are targeted to be siphoned per day.

Recently, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) held a joint meeting with the national and regional disaster risk reduction committee to address the Bataan oil spill incident.

DILG Sec. Atty. Benjamin C. Abalos Jr. led the meeting along with the National at Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils.

Bataan Gov. Joet Garcia, Pampanga Gov. Dennis Pineda, and other government agencies were also present to discuss possible actions to avert massive oil spill in the region. (MPD-SBMA)

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US Defense Secretary, US Ambassador visit Subic Bay following dialogue with Ph counterparts

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Board of Directors and agency officials welcome US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin III and US Ambassador MaryKay Carlson, during their brief visit to Subic Bay Freeport on Wednesday (July 31, 2024) as part of their official itinerary. 

This, after Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, alongside the US Defense Secretary, met with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., in Manila the day before the Subic visit. 

The US officials held the 4th 2+2 ministerial dialogue with their Filipino counterparts, Secretary for Foreign Affairs Enrique A. Manalo and Secretary of National Defense Gilberto C. Teodoro, Jr. 

Secretary Blinken, Secretary Austin, and President Marcos discussed the momentum in United States-Philippines relations over the past year and reaffirmed the critical role of the U.S.-Philippines Alliance in realizing our shared vision of a free and open, connected, prosperous, secure, and resilient Indo-Pacific region. 

While in Subic Freeport, Secretary Austin visited the headquarters of the Philippine Navy at the Agila Subic compound (Agila North). 

On his social media site X, Secretary Austin wrote: “It was great to visit Subic Bay, including the headquarters of the Philippine Navy, at a time when we’re doing more than ever to deepen our defense industrial cooperation and support the Philippine military’s modernization.” 

Later, Austin wrote another post: “The United States, the Philippines, and our partners are hard at strengthening our defense industrial bases like never before. It was great to see those results and opportunities firsthand at Subic Bay.” 

The United States government plans to invest in high-quality, high-impact infrastructure via the Luzon Economic Corridor that includes key economic hubs such as Subic Bay, Clark, Manila, and Batangas (SNL).

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SBMA bares seaport, airport projects for completion in 2028

This premier Freeport is set to boost the economic corridor of the country by developing both its seaport and airport.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño said these port infrastructure projects support the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC) Development initiative of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration, which are expected for completion by 2028.

Speaking before stakeholders at the Build Better More Infrastructure Forum held at the New Clark City (NCC) in Capas, Tarlac, Aliño disclosed that the first project, a Multipurpose Port Terminal (MPT) at the Lower Mau, will include a 570-meter wharf, with a depth of 12.9 meters. It has a back-up area of 17.2 hectares for warehouses and open storage areas.

“This project will provide an additional capacity of 2.5 million metric tons bulk cargoes. As one of the identified projects under Public Investment Program of the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA), the project will spur economic growth through the additional berthing facility,” he said.

Another MPT that is set to be constructed at the Redondo Peninsula, will have a 600-meter wharf, with a depth of 14 meters and a breakwater. It has a back-up area of 30 hectares for warehouses, open storage, offices and support facilities. The project will increase the port capacity with additional 3 million metric tons cargoes. This is one of the identified projects under Public Investment Program of the NEDA, with a project cost of P11-billion.

“The high percentage of domestic and international commerce is by sea, therefore, the efficiency of maritime transportation has become increasingly essential to national competitiveness,” Aliño said.

The SBMA also plans to construct a Cruise Passenger Terminal area with a project cost of P1.2 Billion for Phase 1, and P8.96 Billion for Phase 2.  The facility will have a double berth 380-meter pier with a depth of 12 meters, along with the reclamation of 20 hectares for Phase 2.

“International and local cruise operations will greatly benefit the local and national economies, with increased employment opportunities, revenue from port fees and dues, and increased tourism spending. This is vital to the National Cruise Tourism Program of the Marcos Jr. administration,” the official shared.

Also in the pipeline is the proposed improvement of existing buildings and the construction of new facilities inside the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA) with a project cost of P7.02-billion.

To modernize ports and allied industries and to decongest passenger traffic in Metro Manila, the Marcos administration will also undertake the improvement of the SBIA to be able to accommodate 6 million passengers annually.

A new hotel and parking facilities within the airport complex that will promote the use of the SBIA and further boost the tourism sector in the Subic Bay Freeport is also in the offing. “The project is currently under study and will cost around P4.3 billion,” Aliño said.

“Locators, port users and prospective investors will also benefit from upgraded and modernized airport facilities, with increased SBIA efficiency, capacity and revenue generation.  With these improvements, the SBMA will have additional revenue generating facilities with the rise of a world-class airport hotel and multilevel carpark,” he added.

“Now for the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA) to achieve its maximum potential, we are planning to expand the SBIA by upgrading and modernizing its facilities. Once in place, we are confident to increase both the handling and revenue generating capacity of the airport,” the chairman said.

The feasibility study on the proposed SBIA Expansion Project will include the extension of the runway from 2,745 meters to 3,300 meters in length, expanded aprons, relocated CAAP-ATC tower, and a new passenger terminal building.

“This will improve and provide a more efficient client and passenger accommodation as the proposed airport is expected to generate a conservative revenue of P12.5 billion annually.  This should significantly align to the objectives of the Luzon Economic Corridor,” he said. (MPD-SBMA)

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SBMA eyes completion of big-ticket projects under Marcos Jr. administration

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) is eyeing the completion of big-ticket projects under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration.

Speaking before stakeholders at the Build Better More Infrastructure Forum held at the New Clark City (NCC), in Capas, Tarlac, SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño said that the agency aims to complete these infrastructure projects by 2028.

Environmentally friendly and cost efficient service

“On top of our list is our initiative to become the first Philippine port equipped with shore power connection for ships. By 2028, we look to complete the project and deploy the shore power facility that looks to reduce the air pollution from ships by 95%. The project cost is around P250 million.”

The Shore Power Connection for Carbon Neutral Ports project will start construction at the New Container Terminal in 2025 for Phase 1, and at the Naval Supply Depot (NSD) and Ship Repair Facility (SRF) from 2026-2027 for Phase 2.

“This will provide shoreside electrical power to a ship at berth while its main and auxiliary engines are shut down. Shore power cuts air pollution from ships at berth by 95 percent,” he said.

The project cost will be under the General Appropriations Act (GAA) of the National Government for 2025, which will be around P100-million for Phase 1 and P150-million for Phase 2.

Logistics facility for trucks

“To ensure that the growth in cargo will not lead to road congestion, we are now in the process of constructing a state-of-the-art truck holding area in our Tipo area. The project will include automated gates, optical plate scanners and amenities for truck drivers and clients. The project will cost around P100 million and will be completed by 2028,” Aliño said.

The Logistics Facility for Trucking Services will provide a holding area that can accommodate 100 trucks and vehicles. The construction of parking areas with amenities for cargo trucks and trailers will also be undertaken.

Housing projects inside the Freeport

Meanwhile, the Socialized Housing Program of the SBMA is under President Marcos Jr.’s Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Housing (4PH) Program and will cost P2-billion. The project is in partnership with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD).

The area where the housing project will be constructed is at lots 70-B Rizal Highway Ext., Central Business District, Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

“This housing project will significantly improve the living conditions of approximately 1,300 low-income families by providing them with access to decent and safe housing units that are conveniently located near major employment hubs,” Aliño said.

A plan to build dormitories for Freeport workers is also in the works, as Aliño cited that these dormitories will be built close to industrial centers and techno parks. According to the chairman, this will save companies and workers finances, while reducing the number of vehicles and commuters on the road. The project will have a budget of P960 million and will be completed by 2028.

Subic as a Smart City

“We are also embarking on the Subic Bay Smart City project, in which two of the main components include the installation of additional CCTV surveillance and traffic cameras. Subic Freeport is known to have some of the most disciplined drivers and pedestrians in the country mainly due to the strict implementation of traffic rules and regulations,” he added.

“The cost for these upgrades will be P224 million and we hope to complete them by the end of 2026.”

Skills Training

As part of the Marcos Jr. administration’s thrust to upskill Filipino workers, the Agency also plans to build the SBMA Center for Excellence that will boost the skills of the Freeport workers here.

Aliño said that this is to ensure the sustainability of the industries here.

“We understand that we need to continue to develop the competencies and talents of our workforce. A workforce capable of adapting and providing the needs of our vast industries,” he added.

The P21-million training facility aims to enhance the competitiveness of the 154,120 workforce of the Freeport thru technical education and skills development offered by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). (MPD-SBMA)

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SBMA signs PNP-SAF extension in Subic Freeport

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and the Philippine National Police-Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) allowing the extended occupation of a portion of land within the Subic Bay Freeport to house their barracks and training center.

During the MOA signing held at the SBMA Administration Building on July 10, 2024, SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño said that the agreement translates to a better and more heightened safety and security advantage for the Subic Freeport community.

“The SBMA is allowing the 2nd Special Action Battalion of the PNP-SAF to extend its use of the 14,231-square meter of land property that they have been using since 1998 for their training,” he said.

Aliño signed the MOA with PNP-SAF Acting Director Police Brigadier General Mark D. Pespes at the SBMA Corporate Boardroom. He cited that the MOA attests to the SBMA’s thrust to provide a safe and secure economic zone for its stakeholders. 

On behalf of PNP Chief Police General Rommel Francisco D. Marbil, Pespes conveyed his message of gratitude to Aliño for the agency’s continued support to the PNP, which significantly solidifies the unwavering commitment and partnership between the two government agencies.

“By providing us with the necessary resources and facilities, you are playing a crucial role in enhancing our capabilities and ensuring the safety and security of our community. Your support is invaluable, and we are profoundly thankful for your trust and cooperation,” Pespes said.

After the signing, Pespes conducted a command visit to the 85th Special Action Company, Rapid Deployment Battalion at Building 8131, Old Fly Fast Hangar of the Subic Bay International Airport.

The official also visited the training center of the 2nd Special Action Battalion (2SAB) near the Morong Gate of the freeport for an ocular of the facility as part of the PNP's ongoing efforts to ensure operational readiness, boost morale, and address the concerns of the personnel.

As a final reminder, Gen. Pespes reiterated his guidance to the uniformed personnel of the 2nd Special Action Battalion of the PNP-SAF, to continue to excel in their service, and give their best in the discharge of their functions, in honor of the memory of fallen personnel who have sacrificed their lives to serve their countrymen. (MPD-SBMA)

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SBMA recognized for outstanding upcycling efforts in CL

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) was recently recognized for its best efforts to upcycle wastes from among other contenders in Central Luzon.

Themed “Celebrating the Excellence and Partnership of Environmental Champions,” the Environmental Summit 2024 was held on June 28 at the Widus Hotel, Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga to give recognition to local government units (LGUs), industries and stakeholders with best practices in waste management.

OIC-Senior Deputy Administrator for Regulatory Group and SBMA Ecology Center manager Amethya Dela Llana-Koval personally received the agency’s award for its “Outstanding Practice in Upcycling Operation” from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) Central Luzon.

Dela Llana-Koval acknowledged the various departments and offices of the SBMA and its stakeholders for its all-out support that largely contributed to the success of Ecology Center’s events and activities.

“We are very grateful to the EMB for recognizing our efforts in solid waste management, especially in recycling and upcycling. It is with pride and honor that the Ecology Center shares this award to the entire agency. It is only through the support of other SBMA departments and offices and our stakeholders that we are able to achieve this,” she said.

The Environmental Summit was attended by representatives of various agencies and LGUs in Central Luzon--EMB regional director, DENR assistant regional executive director, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) regional director, Provincial Environmental Management Unit (PEMU), Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO), Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) and awardees from Region 3, governors, mayors, barangay captains, SBMA, Clark Development Corporation (CDC) and industries, to name a few.

The accolade is attributed to the Ecology Center’s continuous conduct of Recyclable Collection Events, Scrap to Craft contest in collaboration with schools within the SBF, Green Runway Fashion competition, and other related environmental activities, to reduce, recycle and upcycle wastes, which are regularly witnessed by EMB R3 personnel from the Waste Management Division.

Other awards which gave cognizance to other entities for their efforts to promote environmental protection and waste management were, “Most compliant in Ecological Solid Waste Management Implementation,” “Best Materials Recovery Facility,” “Best Composting Innovation,” “Outstanding Support in Ecological Solid Waste Management Implementation,”  “Industry Partners in Environmental Protection, Enhancement and Restoration,” to name a few.

Meanwhile, Dela Llana-Koval assured that the Ecology Center, together with the entire agency, will always do their best and further innovate to address solid waste management concerns.

The Environmental Summit is the culminating event for the Environment Month, which is conducted annually by the Environmental Management Bureau-Region 3. (MPD-SBMA)

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50 PWDs experience work immersion in SBMA offices, other establishments

Some 50 persons with disabilities (PWDs) experience work immersion in various offices of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), other business establishments here and in Olongapo City. 

This came after the SBMA recently forged a partnership with the local government of Olongapo City to facilitate the work immersion of PWDs inside this premier Freeport. 

The SBMA’s Labor Department, as well as the Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) Olongapo City, the Work Immersion Program for PWDs in Government and Private Business Establishments are aimed at providing PWDs a ten-day actual work experience in companies here and in Olongapo City.

According to Labor Department Manager Atty. Melvin Varias, there are a total of 50 PWDs who were given the chance to work—34 of them are deployed to companies inside the Subic Bay Freeport Zone. 

“Of the 34 PWDs, ten worked at the Grand United Property and Service Management, Inc.; eight were sent to the Subic Bay Travelers Hotel and Event Center; four worked at the Eddie and Julie G Food Corp. at the Jollibee Main Gate; three worked at the SBMA’s Financial Planning and Budget Department; three went to the SBMA’s Accounting Department; five worked here at the SBMA Labor Department; and one was sent to the SBMA Office Services Department,” Varias said.

Meanwhile, PDAO Head Rizalino Jose bared that the proposal for the Work Immersion Program was conceptualized in March of this year. He said that during this program, PWDs will be given opportunities to value, experience and prove their worth as equals with the typical workforce.

“Our target PWD beneficiaries range from mild to manageable disabilities,” he added.

Jose said that their daily minimum wage salary rate of P580 will be funded by the Office of City Mayor Rolen Paulino Jr., adding that the first batch of internship was held last May 27 to June 7, while the second batch is from June 10-21, 2024.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño lauded the work immersion program for PWDs, citing that the Subic Bay Freeport is the perfect venue for PWDs to experience that there is equality in the workplace. 

“Our Labor Department is working hard to provide a harmonious working environment inside the Subic Bay Freeport Zone. By providing PWDs with the opportunity to work at companies here, it only proves that the SBMA does not tolerate discrimination in the workplace,” he said.  

Currently, the Subic Bay Freeport zone has a workforce of 159,762 as of April 2024. This will eventually increase as new investors continue to establish their businesses here. 

“These new companies investing in Subic Freeport would mean a possible expansion of the workplace immersion program for PWDs, giving more opportunities for them to prove that they can be productive citizens of the country,” Aliño said. (MPD-SBMA) 

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Philippines' Leyann Ramo and China's Peng Cheng Li seal Ironman 70.3 Subic Bay glory

Chinese Peng Cheng Li and local standout Leyann Ramo delivered outstanding performances at the IRONMAN 70.3 Subic Bay, demonstrating remarkable speed, strength, and endurance in their victories here Sunday. 

Li maintained a commanding lead throughout the race, finishing with an impressive time of 4:20:05.  His dominant performance saw him outpace Great Britain's Christopher Weeks by a substantial margin of 10 minutes in the challenging 1.9km swim, 90km bike ride, and 21.1km run event. 

Weeks finished in 4:30:18, while August Benedicto, a local favorite, secured third place in 4:34:21. 

The IRONMAN Philippines and the IM 70.3 Subic drew over a thousand triathletes from 54 countries, underscoring the global appeal of the IRONMAN-branded events. 

The two races also offered qualifying slots for three World Championships, including the ongoing full-distance race featuring a 3.8km swim, 180km bike ride, and 42.2km run. 

Li, who placed sixth in the full IRONMAN Australia last year, set a strong pace early in the swim leg with the fastest time of 28:38, establishing a two-minute lead over Weeks. Transitioning to the bike leg, the 33-year-old multi-age group winner in 70.3 races extended his lead with a time of 2:21:38. 

He capped off his performance with a powerful finishing kick during the run, completing it in 1:23:58. 

Meanwhile, Ramo showcased impressive form despite fluctuating weather conditions, including intermittent sunshine and overcast skies. 

She set the pace with a swim time of 00:30:57, maintained her lead during the bike leg with a time of 02:45:42, and concluded strongly with a run time of 01:47:06, securing the women’s overall crown with a total time of 05:07:33. 

“Teamwork makes the dream work,” said Ramo, proudly representing Sultan Naga Dimaporo, Lanao del Norte. 

Winner of the IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Princesa last year, the 31-year-old Tri SND Barracuda spearhead expressed heartfelt gratitude to her family, teammates and province for their unwavering support in her latest triumph. 

Israel’s Hadar Shahar finished second with a time of 05:16:04, posting leg times of 00:32:38 (swim), 02:46:26 (bike), and 01:52:53 (run). 

Hong Kong’s Ruby Cheng claimed third place in 05:23:57, with respective times of 00:29:44, 02:49:23, and 01:58:32 in the swim, bike, and run segments. 

Ramo also earned the age-group title in the 30-34 division ahead of Cheng, while Shahar topped the 25-29 category, culminating a significant triathlon weekend that included the Underpants Run and the Choco Hero IRONKIDS. 

Weeks began strongly with a swim time of 00:30:26, followed by a bike time of 02:22:41, and concluded the run in 01:33:27, finishing with a total time of 04:30:18. 

Benedicto, winner of the IRONMAN 70.3 Cebu in 2022, completed the swim in 00:34:26, the bike in 02:23:48, and the run in 01:32:49, finishing at 04:34:21. 

The top three male finishers also ruled their respective age-group categories: Li claimed the 30-34 age group, Weeks secured the 35-39 trophy, and Benedicto won in the 40-44 division. 

Benedicto also narrowly edged out Thai top triathlete Jaray Jearnai in both overall and age-group standings, with Jearnai finishing in 04:37:08 with leg times of 00:30:23 (swim), 02:26:56 (bike), and 01:35:16 (run). 

Furthermore, the top 25 male triathletes from the ongoing full-distance race earned coveted spots in the Kona, Hawaii World Championship scheduled from Oct. 22-28. 

Additionally, the top 15 female athletes secured qualification for the Vinfast IRONMAN World Championship in Nice, France, set for Sept. 24-28. 

The IRONMAN 70.3 Subic Bay also offered 45 age-group qualifying slots for the Vinfast IM 70.3 World Championship in Taupo, New Zealand, on Dec. 14-15, with 15 slots reserved specifically for female participants. 

In relay competitions, Go for Gold Team topped the men’s event in 04:05:20, beating Isabela Tri Club (04:10:02) and Go for Gold Team 2 (04:19:17), while Isabela Tri Club topped the mixed relay in 04:25:29, and the Isabela Tri Club Girls ruled the women’s side in 05:04:32. 

Other division winners were Kenneth Bonda (4:45:49), and A.R. Toroganan (4:40:05) in 25-29. 

The Century Tuna IRONMAN Philippines and IRONMAN 70.3 Subic Bay is backed by Global Premier Partners Global Premier Partners Vinfast, Hoka, Roka, and Breitling; with Global Technical Partners Athletic Brewing Co., Hyperice, Maurten, Santini, AG1, wahoo, Qatar Airways, FulGaz and TriDot; with global supplier partners Always Advancing, Nirvana, Compressport and ekoi. Media Partners Outside+. Title Partner Century Tuna of Century Pacific Foods Inc., and Venue Host Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority. Official Hydration Partner Lightwater, Bike Leg Racing Partner NLEX & SCTEX, Official Courier & Logistics Partner 2Go. Event Partners Birch Tree, ion Advanced Electrolyte Drink, Lightwater, Sante, Teresa Marble, Sportograf, The Philippine Star, One Sports, and Cignal. (SNL)

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Subic container terminal gets new China service

The Subic Bay International Terminal Corporation (SBITC) at the Port of Subic has added a new service that offers a direct link between the Philippines and China.

Operated by Macrocean International Shipping, the CX1 service makes weekly calls to SBITC and Manila International Container Terminal to provide manufacturers and traders in Northern and Central Luzon with a fast and efficient connection to key Chinese ports.

The service sails through the following ports: Manila North Harbor – Subic – Xiamen – Shihu – Weitu.

The CX1 service comes nearly a year after SBITC added the South China Vietnam Philippines (SVP) feeder service South China Vietnam Philippines (SVP) feeder service to its list.

The service was inaugurated by Danum 175, a 1,200-TEU boxship operated by Emirates Shipping Line (ESL), in June last year. It signaled the expansion of the Port of Subic’s connectivity to South China and Vietnam.

ESL operates the SVP service together with ASEAN Sea Line (ASL) and Pacific International Line (PIL). ESL is a new player in the Philippine market.

The SVP service rotation is as follows: Shekou – Nansha – Xiamen – Manila North – Subic – Xiamen – Shekou – Nansha – Ho Chi Minh – Shekou.

In March, ONE announced it would start to call at Subic Bay on its China Thailand Philippines (CTP) service.

With a turnaround time of 28 days, the service rotates through the following ports: Laem Chabang (Thailand), Cai Mep (Vietnam), Manila (Philippines), Subic (Philippines), Qingdao (China), Pusan (South Korea), Shanghai (China), Laem Chabang.

SBITC now caters to more than a dozen weekly services and major shipping lines. (SNL) 

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SBMA chair reveals P6.33-M Subic Port Expansion plan

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator has revealed the P6.33-million port expansion plan for this premier Freeport.

Speaking before the participants of the Central Luzon Transport & Trade Conference 2024 held at the Hilton Clark Sun Valley Resort on May 24, Aliño presented Subic’s Port Expansion plan under the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)-Regional Development Master Plan. 

“Subic Bay Freeport will have additional berthing facilities in the Boton Area alongside the expansion of the Boton Wharf with an approximate cost of P6.33-million. The plan would include the reclamation for a terminal expansion with a ten-hectare area, expansion and deepening of the existing wharf by 1.5 meters, and the inclusion of a general cargo and Roll-On Roll-Off (RoRo) terminal,” Aliño said.

He also said that the New Container Terminal 3 will also have an expansion plan to include additional berthing facilities and a quay with a length of 410 meters and width of 700 meters, a total area of 28.7 hectares, and a depth of 16 meters. The said project will cost P20-billion. 

The agency also plans to create additional berthing facilities at the San Bernardino Road which will have a multi-purpose terminal that has a quay length of 400 meters, an area of 17.4 hectares, and a depth of 12 meters.

“The construction of the 400-meter wharf will have warehouses and open spaces, an empty container yard, and a truck weigh scale area. The expansion at the San Bernardino Road will cost around P10 billion,” Aliño added.

Aside from the aforementioned expansion plans, the SBMA also aims to implement the Port Expansion Plan at the Redondo Peninsula that includes the construction of a P9.35-billion multi-purpose terminal with a 600m by 500m quay that has a total area of 30 hectares and a depth of 13.5 meters.

“This will also include the construction of a 600-meter wharf, warehouses, an admin building, truck parking, truck weigh scale, sentry gate, open storage, offices and facilities for workers,” Aliño also said.

A proposed multi-purpose terminal at the Lower Mau area of the Subic Bay Freeport is also in the works that includes a 570-meter quay with a total area of 17.2 hectares and a depth of 13 meters. The said facility will have the same amenities as the other multi-purpose terminals, but has an approximate cost of P10.19 million.

Aliño stated that the SBMA is bullish on the shipping industry, citing that Subic Bay Freeport can easily handle the shipping industry in the North and Central Luzon. “This is why we are pushing for these expansion plans, we want the world to know that Subic Bay Freeport is more than capable of handling their cargo,” he added. (MPD-SBMA)

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