Hanjin hiring more workers for shipbuilding projects

Hanjin Heavy Industries and Construction – Philippines (HHIC-Phil) plans to hire more Filipino workers for its shipbuilding facility here to accommodate the growing number of orders from seafaring nations.

Hanjin top officials said that by next month, it will start building three Ultra Large Container Vessels (ULCVs).

These ULCVs will have the capacity to carry 20,600 twenty-footer equivalent unit (TEU) containers in one hauling.

The ULCVs were ordered by France’s shipping conglomerate CMA CGM.

Each ship has a measurement of 400-meter in length, 59-meter in breadth and depth of 33 meters, with a deck as large as four soccer/football fields combined.

HHIC-Phil Managing Director for External Trade Yoo Hoan Jo said that the new orders would likely mean additional workers for the completion of these three ULCVs.

The company has already delivered 91 vessels since it started its operation at the Redondo Peninsula, Subic Bay Freeport in 2008, boosting the country’s export portfolio over the years.

The company has delivered 16 vessels last year and has numerous orders this year including the three ULCVs.

“The synergy between Hanjin and the Filipino worker is really a great formula not just in shipbuilding, but in nation building as well. The company believes in the craftsmanship and hard work the Filipino is known for, and will continue to utilize the Filipinos’ capabilities in shipbuilding for years to come,” Jo said.

The company recently gave back to the community by donating P5 million to help the National Anti-Poverty Commission’s (NAPC) priority projects for the marginalized Filipinos.

The turnover of the donation was done last month at the NAPC office in Diliman, Quezon City.

The donation is part of the company’s thrust to help uplift the Filipino people.

Jo personally turned over the check to NAPC Secretary and lead convenor Jose Eliseo Rocamora, following the signing of a memorandum of agreement (MOA) between the two parties.

The MOA stipulates that the P5-million donation from Hanjin would be disbursed specifically to support NAPC’s priority projects for post-Yolanda fisher folk settlement in Palawan and Sicogon. (Jonas Reyes, Manila Bulletin)

PHOTOS:

[1] HHIC-Phil shipyard at the Redondo Peninsula in Subic Bay Freeport Zone (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

[2] Made in Subic: A ship being built at HHIC-Phil's Subic shipyard. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

[3] HIC-Phil prides itself for having a Filipino workforce highly skilled in shipbuilding. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

http://www.mb.com.ph/hanjin-hiring-more-workers-for-shipbuilding-projects/

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Former SBMA Chair RADM Feliciano G. Salonga passes away

Rear Admiral Feliciano G. Salonga, PCGA, Chairman of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) from 2006 to 2011, passed away Friday evening, January 29, 2016.

Former Chairman Salonga, who is also father of Broadway star Lea Salonga, was 86.

On her social media accounts, Salonga, who is currently in New York for the Broadway run of the musical "Allegiance," posted a screenshot of the obituary of her late father that appeared in the Philippine Star.

"To be completely honest, I didn't know even half of what's he's done in his professional or military life. All I know is he has now joined the rest of his ancestors that went to the Great Beyond before him. Rest in peace, Dad," she wrote on Facebook.

His remains can be viewed at the SBMA gym and will be buried at the Finones Memorial Garden Cemetery, San Felipe, Zambales at a still-unannounced date.

Feliciano G. Salonga was a graduate of the US Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York where he was consistently awarded with the Scholastic Star until he finished his Bachelor’s Degree in Marine Engineering in 1953. He attended the MBA program in the University of the Philippines in 1959-60, and is a graduate of the United States Mine Sweeping Course in 1956 and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Intelligence Specialist Course in 1954.

Salonga was also vice chairman of Bataan Shipyard & Engineering Co., Inc.; managing director of Marine Consultancy Division of B.P. Mata & Co., Inc.; marketing director of MLD & Associates, a marine consultancy firm, chief of the Aids-to-Navigation Group, Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary (PCGA) National Command; director of the O.B. Montessori Grassroots Leadership Foundation, Inc.; and president of the Mt. Pinatubo Hidden Temple Shrine & Community Foundation.

Prior to his chairmanship of the SBMA, Salonga was the president of Ganda Energy & Holdings, Inc., an independent power producer from 1997-1999.

Other positions he held were executive chairman of Sabah Shipyard Philippines, Inc. (1994-1999); president & general manager of Philippine Shipyard & Engineering Corp. (1987-1994); vice president for marketing of the Philippine Shipyard & Engineering Corp. (1984-1987); commercial manager of PNOC Marine Corporation (1981-1984); chairman of Traders Industrial Supply Co., Inc. (1980-1983); marketing director of Dynamarine Corporation (1966-1980); president and general manager, B.B. Fischer & Company, Inc. (1973-1980); senior department head for Research & Development Department of the Philippine Packing Corporation (1960-1963); Commissioned Officer (LT. SG), Philippine Navy, TF-04 Intelligence Officer, Patrol Force Staff Engineering Officer, Division 21 Chief Engineering Officer (1953-1960)

In February 2006, Salonga was awarded the Blue Falcon Award by his alma mater, the V. Mapa High School, for his achievements and contributions in maritime industrial management.

He was made an adopted son of Zambales, on October 24, 2005 in recognition of his goodwill and support to the people of the province "with the common vision for excellent service and development of the Freeport and Zambales Province."

In 1998, Salonga was named "Outstanding Professional Achievement Awardee for the year 1998" by the United States Merchant Marine Academy Alumni in Kings Point, New York.

He was also awarded a presidential citation for Successful Privatization of the Philippine Shipyard & Engineering Corporation by President Fidel V. Ramos in 1994 and "Adopted Son of Subic" for Service to the Community in 1989.

He is also former commander of the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary, 103rd Squadron (Zambales); former first vice president & director of the Philippine Shipbuilders & Repairers Association (PHILSAR); former president of the Shipbreakers Association of the Philippines, former president of the Philippine Independent Power Producers Association, Inc.; and former chairman & governor of the Chamber of Maritime Industries of the Philippines.

He was a member of the East Asia Committee of Lloyd’s Register of Shipping, London from 1996 to 1998, and the Technical Committee of the American Bureau of Shipping in 1982.

Chairman Salonga is a licensed 3rd Assistant Engineer of the United States Coast Guard and currently Rear Admiral of the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary, Aids-to-Navigation Group. (Manila Bulletin)

PHOTOS:

[1] Rear Admiral Feliciano G. Salonga, PCGA. 1930-2016 (AMD/MPD-SBMA) 

[2] Announcement photo courtesy of Lea Salonga’s twitter account

http://www.mb.com.ph/lea-salongas-dad-passes-on/

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NLEx-SCTEx integration nears completion, to cut tollway travel time

THE TOLLWAYS arm of Metro Pacific Investments Corp. (MPIC) said the P650-million project integrating the North Luzon Expressway (NLEx) and Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEx), which will cut travel time from Balintawak to Subic by up to 40 minutes, is nearing completion.

The NLEx and SCTEx integration, which is currently 85% finished, is expected to be operational by March, as the firm braces for a surge in traffic volume during the Holy Week, Manila North Tollways Corp. (MNTC) Assistant Vice-President Glenn G. Campos reporters during an inspection of the project yesterday.

“The integrated system will be operational by March because we are expecting a 15%-20% surge in volume during the Holy Week,” he said.

Around 200,000 vehicles travel through the NLEx every day, while 35,000 pass thorough the SCTEx. The combined vehicular traffic is expected to increase 5%-7% this year, MNTC Senior Vice-President Raul L. Ignacio said at the same venue.

As part of the integration, the company is reducing toll collection stops, while toll plazas at Dau and Mabalacat are being converted to pass-through lanes.

Motorists can also start using the EasyTrip Tag on both tollroads. Around 20%-25% of NLEx’s motorists use the digital payment scheme, while all SCTEx users pay in cash.

“We are estimating [time] savings to be at 35 to 40 minutes,” Mr. Campos said. “If your travel time from Balintawak to Tarlac used to take one hour and 50 minutes, it will be reduced to one hour and 10 to 15 minutes.”

The company said toll rates will remain unchanged as the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) has yet to act on its petitions for rate hikes.

Last Sept. 30, 2015, MNTC filed a petition with the TRB for toll rate adjustment and the inclusion of a 12% value added tax at the SCTEx. If granted, SCTEx toll rates would rise by P4.67 per kilometer (km) for Class 1 vehicles, P9.32 per km for Class 2 vehicles, and P13.97 per km for Class 3 vehicles.

MNTC had earlier said it is spending more than P1.5 billion to upgrade the SCTEx over the next three years, saying the upgrade will make it at par with the NLEx. (Daphne J. Magturo, BusinessWorld)

PHOTO:

SCTEX toll plaza at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=Corporate&title=nlex-sctex-integrationto-be-completed-by-march&id=122211

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SBMA infra expenditures rise by 957%

As a result of outstanding financial performance in the past three consecutive years, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) increased its capital expenditures (CAPEX) on infrastructure by 957 percent in 2015.

SBMA Chairman Roberto Garcia said that the SBMA approved a total of P302.5 million last year to fund eight major infrastructure projects, compared to only P28.6 million in 2014.

The amount is part of the P800-million CAPEX being utilized by SBMA to fund the repair of service roads, purchase of new vehicles, and renovation of SBMA buildings and facilities in the free port.

Garcia said that in 2013, the agency had very limited cash to fund even the minor repair of its roads and buildings. However, because of the dedication of SBMA officials and employees to improve the agency’s performance in 2014, the agency managed to allocate P28.63 million for infrastructure.

“The amount was insufficient but at least, we were able to start minor repairs on our roads and buildings,” the SBMA official said.

Garcia said that the shortage of funds in the past years had led to some embarrassing situations like when a group of investors visited him one rainy day and water started to drip from the ceiling.

“That is why as a reward for another successful year, we have allotted P3.19 million for the repair and waterproofing of the concrete roof at Building 229, which is the SBMA administration building,” he said.

Garcia said other projects completed under the 2015 infrastructure program include the improvement of road networks at the Naval Supply Depot (NSD) area, the renovation of the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC), and the construction of a sentry booth and a medical-dental clinic at the Aeta tribal village in Pastolan, Hermosa, Bataan.

NSD is being utilized as unloading, warehousing, and stockpiling area for imported bulk grains, as well as containerized and non-containerized items.

Meanwhile, the SBECC is undergoing major renovation, general repainting, and upgrading of interior fixtures, including modern lights and sound systems in preparation for some upcoming big events, one of which is the Ad Summit 2016, the third time it will be hosted by Subic in a row.

Ad Summit Pilipinas 2016 is the country’s largest gathering in the advertising and marketing industry and more than 5,000 delegates from the industry in the country and abroad are expected to attend it.

Garcia said the use of choice materials in refurbishing the SBECC would help make Subic live up to its title as “Premier Convention Capital of Central Luzon” which the Department of Tourism bestowed in 2012.

Garcia added that the SBMA is ready to spend a significant amount for the repair and rehabilitation of infrastructures because the Subic Bay Freeport has a total asset of P28 billion, considered the largest among site-specific Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs) in the country like the Authority of Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB) and Clark Development Corporation (CDC).

“Subic is not only the first Freeport, but the largest and most progressive in the country, and we want to keep it that way,” Garcia said. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTOS:

[1] Before and after photos of a slope protection project undertaken by the SBMA under its 2015 infrastructure development program (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

[2] A road repair crew rehabilitates a portion of the road at the Central Business District of the Subic Bay Freeport (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

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MPIC unit allocates over P1.5B for SCTEx upgrade

THE TOLLWAYS arm of Metro Pacific Investments Corp. (MPIC) is spending more than P1.5 billion to upgrade the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEx) over the next three years, saying the upgrade will make it at par with the North Luzon Expressway (NLEx).

“Aside from integrating the two tollways seamlessly, we have lined up a lot of enhancement works for SCTEx,” Rodrigo E. Franco, Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. (MPTC) president and chief executive officer, said in a statement yesterday.

MPTC is the holding company of Manila North Tollways Corp. (MNTC), which operates the two toll roads.

“These include pavement works, construction of new facilities, and the improvement of the toll collection and communications systems,” Mr. Franco said.

One the integration of the two tollways is completed this year, SCTEx will adopt NLEx’s modern toll collection system, which uses dedicated short-range communication tags, as well as contactless and magnetic cards.

“The MNTC is investing more than P1.5 billion to improve the SCTEX and bring to it all the world-class features of the NLEX. A three-year asphalt overlay project covering the entire 94-kilometer length of the expressway will eventually make the SCTEX’s pavement as smooth as that of the NLEX,” Mr. Franco said.

Motorists will start to feel the improvements during the Holy Week in March, when traffic volume is expected to surge.

The country’s longest four-lane expressway serves around 34,000 vehicles every day, generating an annual revenue of around P1.4 billion, MPTC’s immediate past president Ramoncito S. Fernandez said in November last year.

MPTC said it is installing closed-circuit television cameras and emergency call boxes along the toll road.

“The roadside emergency call boxes will enable distressed motorists to directly and quickly connect to the SCTEX traffic control room. The CCTV cameras, on the other hand, will enable real-time monitoring of the entire stretch of the expressway which, in turn, will allow MNTC teams to respond faster to motorists who may need assistance,” the company said.

There will be additional lights and reflectorized strips to guide motorists at night, variable message signs with updated traffic information, as well two additional restrooms at the Dolores Exit and Luisita Interchange.

“By Holy Week 2016, some physical barriers currently standing between the two tollways will be removed. Motorists will no longer need to stop at Dau and Mabalacat as these will be converted into pass-through lanes,” MNTC said.

The Bases Conversion and Development Authority, the state-run agency that built SCTEx, awarded last year to MNTC the contract to manage, operate and maintain the expressway until 2043.

The 94-kilometer SCTEx passes through the provinces of Bataan, Pampanga and Tarlac. It is linked to the northern tip of 93-kilometer NLEx at Sta. Ines in Mabalacat, Pampanga.

Shares in listed MPIC added four centavos or 0.78% to end Monday at P5.14 apiece.

MPIC is one of three Philippine units of Hong Kong-based First Pacific Co. Ltd., the others being Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co. (PLDT) and Philex Mining Corp.

Hastings Holdings, Inc., a unit of PLDT Beneficial Trust Fund subsidiary MediaQuest Holdings, Inc., has a majority stake in BusinessWorld. (Daphne J. Magturo, BusinessWorld)

PHOTO:
CARS are seen along the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway. (file, bcda.gov.ph)

http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=Corporate&title=mpic-unit-allocates-overp1.5b-for-sctex-upgrade&id=121675

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Olive ridley sea turtle rescued by Olongapo fishermen

OLONGAPO CITY – Three fishermen rescued an olive ridley sea turtle on Friday at the lighthouse area in Barangay Kalaklan.

Roel Avia, Dennis Galvez, and Kevin Del Pilar found the 22-inch sea turtle at the lighthouse area Friday morning. The three teenagers turned over the marine animal to the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Ecology Department.

SBMA Deputy Administrator Atty. Chot Kabigting said that the teenagers turned over the sea turtle, fearing that the animal might get tangled up in fishing nets if released near the shore. He ordered the SBMA Harbor Patrol to release the sea turtle away from the fishing nets.

The Ecology Dept. tagged the animal and hopes to see it migrate again in Subic Bay next year.

“It was probably nesting here, thank goodness that there are fishermen like these teenagers, who are still taking care of our marine life,” Kabigting said.

SBMA environment management specialist Rhea Jane Mallari, who was about to monitor the giant clams in Subic Bay, led the release of the turtle a few meters from the shore of All Hands Beach Resort.

Olongapo City Mayor Rolen Paulino lauded the efforts of the three teenaged fishermen, stating that people should take from them their effort in assuring the life of a marine animal.

“Nakakatuwa at meron pa palang mga mangingisda sa atin na magpoprotekta ng kalikasan. Dapat talagang tularan ng ibang mangingisda ang mga kabataang ito,” Paulino said.

The olive ridley turtle that the boys rescued was 69 cms wide, 64 cms tall and was around 40 to 60 years old. With many beaches surrounding the area, Subic Bay has been a favorite nesting ground for these endangered animals. (Jonas Reyes, Manila Bulletin)

PHOTOS:

[1] Fisherman Dennis Galvez (left) and an SBMA Harbor Patrol officer carry the olive ridley sea turtle that was found in Olongapo City on Friday. Galvez and two other boys, Roel Avia and Kevin Del Pilar, rescued the turtle in Barangay Kalaklan and turned it over to the SBMA Ecology Dept. (Jonas Reyes)

[2] SBMA Ecology Center manager Ruel John Kabigting (left) and SBMA environment management specialist Rhea Jane Mallari give a good luck pat to an Olive Ridley sea turtle before members of the SBMA Harbor Patrol release it back to the open sea on Friday morning. The sea turtle, locally known as pawikan, an endangered species, nearly got entangled in the nets of fishermen from Olongapo City, who later turned it over to the SBMA. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

http://www.mb.com.ph/olive-ridley-sea-turtle-rescued-by-olongapo-fishermen/

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Taiwan firm offers SBMA help to bring in more shipping lines

The Taiwan International Ports Corporation (TIPC) on Thursday expressed its interest in investing in this Freeport and in helping develop the Port of Subic to become a certified major port destination in Asia.

TIPC Chairman Chih-Ching Chang, in a meeting with Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Roberto Garcia at the SBMA office on Thursday, said that Taiwanese investors are eyeing Subic because of its location and facilities.

“Subic is the finest commercial and tourism destination in one that we have seen, and the future cargo shipping destination,” Chang said.

Chang explained that because the ports in Taiwan are nearing full capacity, many shippers in the island-state are planning to invest overseas and among the preferred destinations for them is Subic, specifically inside the Taiwanese-managed Subic Bay Gateway Park here.

“Subic must prepare for the future as more cargoes are expected to come here from Taiwan because the port in Taiwan is already full. They are coming to Subic and we (TIPC) can help make that happen,” Chang told Garcia.

Chang led an 18-man delegation from TIPC for an ocular inspection of the Subic port. The members included Kuo-Ying Huang, TIPC executive vice-president and CEO of the Kaohsiung Port; Min-Chuan Yen, director of Kaohsiung District Economic Development Association; and Carol Peng, president of the United Development Corp.

Chang noted that TIPC will be hosting a meeting with shipping companies and port users in Taiwan, and among the agenda is to convince them to send bulk or containerized cargoes to Subic.

Meanwhile, Garcia said that as more Taiwan companies and other foreign investors express the desire to locate in Subic, he has been spearheading a move to develop idle lands between Subic and the nearby Clark Freeport and convert these for industrial use.

“Subic has no more space to offer and there, along the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway, we can still develop at least 1,000 hectares for industrial parks that can be offered to investors,” Garcia said.

The SBMA official also told the Taiwanese visitors that Subic has been making headway in terms of transshipment and maritime logistics services.

He said that Subic’s P1.16 billion port revenue in 2015 has overshot the 2014 collection of P908.6 million, thereby registering an increase of 25 percent.

Garcia attributed the growth in port revenue to the increase in the volume of containerized cargo recorded in Subic, from 77,618 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in 2014 to 123,558 TEUs in 2015. The port yard utilization is now 30 percent, he added.

“We are confident that the increase in container volume handled by the Port of Subic will continue because many shippers have already experienced the convenience of using the Port of Subic,” Garcia noted. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTOS:
[1] SBMA Chairman Roberto Garcia (right) exchanges pleasantries with members of a trade delegation led by TIPC Chairman Chih-Ching Chang during a meeting at the SBMA office on Thursday. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

[2] TIPC Chairman Chih-Ching Chang (left) presents SBMA Chairman Roberto Garcia with a memento during the visit of Taiwanese investors to the Subic Bay Freeport on Thursday. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

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Eight PHL bases made available to US under EDCA

The Philippines has offered the United States eight bases where it can build facilities to store equipment and supplies under a new security deal, a military spokesman said on Wednesday, amid rising tension with China over the South China Sea.

Last year, the Philippines and the United States signed the Enhanced Defence Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) granting Washington increased military presence in its former colony, rotating ships and planes for humanitarian and maritime security operations.

"The list has been prepared many months ago when we had earlier discussions," Col. Restituto Padilla told reporters, saying five military airfields, two naval bases and a jungle training camp were offered to the United States.

"These are still subject for approval and we're going to hold final discussions about these areas," he added.

Three of these bases are on the main island of Luzon in the northern Philippines, including Clark airfield, a former US air force base, and two are on the western island of Palawan, near the South China Sea.

The Americans are also seeking access to three civilian seaports and airfields on Luzon, including Subic Bay, a former US Navy base, a senior defense official told Reuters.
...

Subic

Last year, more than 100 US Navy ships docked in Subic and two advanced nuclear-powered stealth submarines made visits in the first two weeks of this year.

"Subic is important to the Americans because it is one of the few areas in the country where they can actually dock safely," said a defense official, who declined to be named because he is not authorized to speak to the press.

In Washington, Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin said security cooperation with the US had become more intertwined amid increasing tension over the South China Sea.

The Philippines has filed a protest against China's test flights from an artificial island in the South China Sea, a foreign ministry spokesman said, describing the actions as "provocative" and a violation of an existing informal code.

Every year more than $5 trillion of world trade is shipped through the South China Sea, believed to have huge deposits of oil and gas, which China claims almost entirely. Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam have rival claims.

China's official Xinhua news agency, in an English-language commentary, said the EDCA would only escalate tension and "could push the situation to the brink of war."

"The deal is groundless because China, which sticks to a defensive defence policy, has never coerced any country on the South China Sea issue," it said. (Reuters with Amita Legaspi/KBK, GMA News)

PHOTO:

A local marching band welcomes the arrival of sailors aboard the USS Topeka (SSN-754), a Los Angeles-class submarine, as it prepares to be docked at the Alava pier off Subic port in Zambales province for a three-day port call at northwestern Philippines, Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2016. The Philippines' Supreme Court declared as constitutional on Tuesday the 10-year defense pact, Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, that allows American forces, warships and planes to temporarily base in local military camps in a boost to U.S. efforts to reassert its presence in Asia, where China has loomed large. AP/Jun Dumaguing

Read more - http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/551089/news/nation/eight-phl-bases-made-available-to-us-under-edca

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EDCA prevails: SC rules, 10-4-1, US-PH defense deal constitutional

Recognizing the power of President Aquino to enter into an agreement with another country, the Supreme Court (SC) upheld yesterday the constitutionality of the Philippines-United States Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), paving the way for an expanded US military presence in the country.

Voting 10-4-1, the SC threw out the petitions filed by former senators Rene Saguisag and Wigberto Tañada as well as militant lawmakers, Bayan Muna Party-list Reps. Neri Colmenares and Carlos Zarate, who all believed that the EDCA violates provisions on national sovereignty, territorial integrity and interests, freedom from nuclear weapons, and autonomy of local government units in the Charter.

In a news conference, SC Spokesman Theodore Te said that 10 magistrates voted to declare EDCA legal while four voted to declare it illegal. Justice Francis Jardeleza, who was the solicitor general when the EDCA was signed, had inhibited from the case.

The High Tribunal agreed with the respondents that the EDCA only intended to implement an existing law or treaty such as the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) and the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA).

The SC also disagreed with the position submitted by the Senate that the landmark US-Philippines agreement, which was inked on April 28, 2014, should require the concurrence of at least two-thirds of all the members of the Senate.

“As it is, EDCA is not constitutionally infirm. As an executive agreement, it remains consistent with existing laws and treaties that it purports to implement,” read the SC decision penned by Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno.

Those who disagreed with the majority decision were Justices Arturo Brion, Teresita Leonardo-De Castro, Estela Perlas-Bernabe, and Marvic Leonen. Of the 4, Leonen and Bernabe are appointees of President Aquino.

Under the EDCA, the Philippines will allow US troops, planes and ships increased rotational presence in Philippine military bases and for Washington to build facilities to store fuel and equipment here.

Philippine officials said that the agreement is designed to promote between the two ally countries the following: Interoperability, Capacity building towards AFP modernization, Strengthening AFP for external defense, Maritime Security, Maritime Domain Awareness, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR).

The enhanced defense deal, however, does not authorize the establishment of American military bases.

It also gives Philippine personnel access to American ships and planes.

“The agreement is very clear on this matter and specifies in the Preamble the parties’ understanding for the US not to establish a permanent military presence or base in the territory of the Philippines. The EDCA does not authorize the establishment of US bases. It allows the US military access to agreed location,” it said.

The agreement was signed against the backdrop of the Philippines’ maritime dispute with China over the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea), and America’s commitment to come to its ally’s defense in case this escalates.

Proponents say the deal aims to help build the capacity of the Philippine military, one of the weakest in Asia.

ARGUMENTS ON EDCA

But the petitioners argued that EDCA is a treaty and not merely an executive agreement as the Aquino administration has claimed.

Because of this, the groups said the EDCA violates Section 25, Article XVIII of the Constitution, which requires that any foreign military bases, troops or facilities “shall not be allowed in the Philippines except under a treaty duly concurred in by the Senate.”

But the government, through Solicitor General Florin Hilbay, has argued that EDCA is a valid executive agreement that could stand even without the concurrence of the Senate.

The SC, for its part, ruled that the EDCA is not the instrument that allows US “troops or facilities” to enter since the VFA has already done that.

Also the SC recognizes the President’s power to enter into executive agreements (different from treaties) not requiring Senate concurrence has been well-recognized and long upheld by the Court.

PALACE ELATED

In Malacañang, Presidential Communications Operations Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. hailed the ruling, saying the SC decision “strengthens the strategic partnership between the Philippines and the United States.”

“This ruling boosts the on-going Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) Modernization Program and paves the way for upgrading our military equipment and capability for national defense as well as for humanitarian assistance and disaster response,” Coloma said.

“According to the President, one of the benefits of the EDCA would be to introduce the AFP to the ‘…most modern equipment… and have a generational leap in our abilities’” he added.

US WELCOMES RULING

The United States also welcomed the SC ruling on the constitutionality of EDCA.

“The US welcomes the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), which will further strengthen the US-Philippine bilateral relationship,” the US embassy said in a statement.

It said EDCA is a mutually beneficial agreement that will enhance our ability to provide rapid humanitarian assistance and help build capacity for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

“We look forward to working closely with our Philippine partners on the implementation of this agreement,” it further stated.

The PH-US defense pact was inked hours before President Barack Obama arrived in the country for a two-day state visit iin April 2014. It was signed by U.S. Ambassador Philip Goldberg and Defense Secretary Voltaire T. Gazmin.

The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) described EDCA as a “critical component of our efforts to enhance and strengthen national security and improve our humanitarian assistance and disaster response capabilities.”

ACADEMIC PERSPECTIVE

One of the country’s foremost foreign affairs and economic analysts emphasized, however, that the Philippine government must make sure that the “expected spike in American boots on Philippine soil will not come at the expense of safety and welfare of our citizens, especially those who reside close to the bases.”

Prof. Richard Heydarian, of the De La Salle University in Manila Political Science Department, it is relevant for the Philippines to ensure “fair and balanced treatment for erring foreign troops, to ensure rule of law and uphold justice as well as protect civilian communities from ecological hazards that usually accompany deployment of massive military assets.”

“We must learn from our past experiences and not be solely concerned with China threat,’ said Heydarian in a text message to Manila Bulletin.

He said now that Manila and Washington have overcome “the constitutional hurdle which was by no means certain,” America can now move ahead with augmenting its military presence, albeit rotationally, in Subic and Clark, two major bases that embrace the bitterly contested West Philippine Sea (South China Sea).

“Our government hopes that this will serve as a latent deterrent against further Chinese provocations within Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ),” said Heydarian, who is also an expert of Asian geopolitics. “Expanded American military footprint in the area might give China a pause and a reason to rethink its revanchism but it may also very well encourage Beijing to dig and fortify its military-oriented structures and activities in the area.” (Leonard Postrado, with reports from Elena L. Aben, Roy C. Mabasa, Genalyn D. Kabiling, and Charissa M. Luci, Manila Bulletin)

PHOTO:

‘THEY’RE STAYING’ — The ‘USS Topeka,’ a Los Angeles-class submarine, docks at the Alava Pier of the Subic Bay Freeport yesterday, while in Manila, the Supreme Court rules in favor of the constitutionality of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), which allows such routine port calls and the use of Philippine port facilities by visiting US military forces. The SC decision drew protesters like this placard-bearing activist (inset) outside its offices in Manila. (Jonas Reyes and Kevin dela Cruz, Manila Bulletin)

Read More - http://www.mb.com.ph/edca-prevails/

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Another US submarine visits Subic Bay

The Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Topeka (SSN 754) arrived at Subic Bay Jan. 12 as part of its routine Indo-Asia-Pacific deployment.

With a crew of 160 Sailors, Topeka will conduct a multitude of missions and maintain proficiency of the latest capabilities of the submarine fleet.

“The United States Navy continues to enjoy a close relationship with the Republic of the Philippines,” said Cmdr. David P. Lammers, commanding officer. “Through port visits such as this one, we strengthen our ties and foster valuable cultural exchange. The more we interact, the better we will understand one another and the stronger our alliance will become. I appreciate the efforts that make us feel so welcome when we visit Subic Bay.”

Filipino-American Sailors aboard will have an opportunity to connect with their heritage.

“Having moved from the Philippines and been raised in California from the age of three, I never really had a chance to experience true Filipino culture outside of my own family,” said Machinist Mate 1st Class Juan Paulo Reyes. “This trip to Subic that the Navy has offered me is a great opportunity to explore my heritage and connect with members of my family still in the Philippines.”

For many crew members, this is their first time visiting the Philippines.

Topeka is a marvel of modern engineering, capable of operating at depths greater than 800 feet at speeds up to 25 nautical miles per hour.

Measuring more than 300 feet long and weighing more than 6,000 tons, Topeka is one of the stealthiest submarines in the world. This submarine is capable of supporting a multitude of missions, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, strike, surveillance and reconnaissance.

Commissioned in 1989, Topeka has a long standing tradition of excellence and achievement. Its crew is highly trained and capable of supporting the boat through any mission cycle within short notice. (USS Topeka Public Affairs)

PHOTOS:

[1] The USS Topeka (SSN-754), a Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine, prepares to dock at the Alava Wharf of the Subic Bay Freeport on Tuesday morning (Jan. 12) for a three-day port stop as part of its routine Indo-Asia-Pacific deployment. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

[2] Filipino dockworkers assist the crew of USS Topeka (SSN-754), a Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine, in mooring the vessel at the Alava Wharf of the Subic Bay Freeport. The US Navy submarine arrived on Tuesday morning (Jan. 12) for a three-day port stop as part of its routine Indo-Asia-Pacific deployment. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

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SBMA posted 12-percent revenue increase last year

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has again broken its own record of sterling performance in the past three years with a bigger growth upsurge in 2015, which rode on the swell of opportunities in the transshipment and maritime logistics sector.

SBMA Chairman Roberto V. Garcia said in a media briefing on Monday that the Subic agency had coaxed a broad-based revenue growth across all strategic business units (SBUs) in 2015, posting a 12-percent revenue growth and achieving an 8-percent increase in operating profit for the same period.

Previously, SBMA’s gross revenue stood at P2.44 billion in 2014, the highest for the agency since it began operations in 1992, while its operating profit or earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization last year was at P1.39 billion, also the highest since 1992.

“The seaport/airport sector is now the leading SBU in Subic, with a 28- percent growth last year,” Garcia said during the news briefing.

He added that the growing transshipment and logistics revenue was bolstered by a 56-percent increase in the volume of containerized cargo processed in Subic, which rose from 77,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in 2014 to 120,000 TEUs in 2015.

Garcia said that, apparently, Subic has begun attracting legitimate shippers last year after being categorized as an extension for the Port of Manila in 2014.

“According to Secretary [Jose Rene] Almendras, there was no port congestion in Manila last year. However, Subic’s container volume still increased, so this can only mean that we have already attracted the legitimate shippers,” Garcia said.

Because of this, Garcia said SBMA is looking forward to bigger container volume in 2016. A 150,000-TEU target, he added, “would be easy [to achieve] this year.”

Aside from the growing transshipment and logistics revenue, Subic’s tourism sector also performed better in 2015, as it posted a 12-percent increase in tourist arrivals, bringing the year’s cumulative total to more than 6 million.

Nature theme parks, like Ocean Adventure and Zoobic Safari, contributed about 2.2 million to the 6 million arrivals for Subic in 2015, Garcia said.

Subic also posted in 2015 the highest hotel-occupancy rate in Central Luzon at 66 percent, as the meeting, incentive, conference and exhibition, and sports tourism niches gained more visitors.

“This is why more new hotels are being built here, and existing ones are expanding because there is a demand,” Garcia said.

He said that after several hotels and restaurants opened along Subic’s waterfront area in mid-2015, the Best Western Hotel was inaugurated late last year while the newest addition, The Reef Hotel, began construction.

Meanwhile, because of better financial performance in the last four years, SBMA was able to increase its capital expenditures from P30 million in 2014 to P40 million in 2015, as well as implement a 10-percent retroactive salary increase for all its personnel.

Garcia also said that, with better financial standing in 2015, SBMA contributed an estimated P630 million in dividends to the national government, an increase of 11 percent over its P570-million contribution in 2014.

SBMA’s outstanding performance in 2015, Garcia added, was capped by Subic’s recognition by fDi Magazine, a publication of The Financial Times of London, as “Global Free Zone of the Year” for Asia.

Subic also received two special awards from fDi last year: one for infrastructure development and another for reinvestment. (Henry Empeño, Business Mirror)

http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/sbma-posted-12-percent-revenue-increase-last-year/

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Ad Summit 2016 in Subic Bay reveals first batch of speakers

The Association of Accredited Advertising Agencies of the Philippines (4As), organizer of Ad Summit Pilipinas (ASP)—the most prestigious event for the country’s marketing communication industry—has revealed its first batch of speakers for ASP 2016.

Ad Summit Pilipinas 2016, with its theme, “Come Out and Play,” promises to be a breeding ground for creative insights and an opportunity to discuss the most revolutionary advertising ideas emerging today. It is scheduled from March 9 to 11, 2016 at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

Among the first batch of experts confirmed to speak during the Summit are Google SEA and India’s vice president and managing director Rajan Anandan, and McCann’s global executive creative director John Mescall. Both were selected for their contributions to various aspects of marketing communication.

Google’s Rajan Anandan, who oversees the online giant’s operations in the region, is known in India as one of its most aggressive angel investors—putting money into various Internet, mobile, and software startups, which he believes can affect the most change in and around the country. Prior to his work with Google SEA and India, he held management positions in Microsoft and Dell.

McCann’s John Mescall, for his part, is the mastermind behind some of the most awarded campaigns in Australia, his home country, including the world-famous “Dumb Ways to Die” advertisements for Australian transport company Metro Trains. Before his position at McCann, Mescall was executive creative director and partner at SMART, one of the most successful and awarded independent advertising agencies in his country. He has done work for such companies like Adidas, ANZ Bank, Coca Cola, Ferrero, Levi’s, Mambo, McDonald’s, News Limited, Unilever, and Vodafone.

“Ad Summit Pilipinas 2016 is going to be one big playground for all creative minds. If you are one of them, get ahead of the crowd by registering early to reserve your slot for the biggest gathering of marketers and advertisers in the country,” said ASP Chair Alex Syfu.

With this, Ad Summit has announced its Early Worm Rates with savings of up to 25 percent for participants who wish to register on or before October 31, 2015.

ASP is also offering a special Student’s Rate of P7,000.00, applicable only to the first 300 students or academe delegates who will register. Also available is a 10+1 student’s promo, which provides every 10 students who register, one free slot for their dean, professor, or school head.

Interested participants may register and reserve their slots at www.adsummit.ph . Regular rates will apply starting November 1, 2015.

http://www.adsummit.ph/archives-view.html

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SBMA forest rangers stop hauling of logs in Aeta ancestral land in Bataan

Forest rangers of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), most of them Aeta natives, have stopped eight big dump trucks from hauling logs cut from their ancestral land in Hermosa town in Bataan province.

“There is no permit, that is why we did not allow them,” said Ricky Manalansan, 31, an Aeta forest ranger.

Manalansan said that five dump trucks loaded with cut trees were already impounded at the SBMA Law Enforcement Department while they are still guarding three other trucks loaded with eucalyptus, cupang and other tree species at the Pastulan village.

A big trunk of cut lawaan tree and left-over of other tree species were seen in clearings adjacent to the access road that reportedly used to be a bike trail to Pastulan village.

Pastulan, an Aeta village, is under Hermosa but became part of the former American naval base that is now the SBMA.

About 2/3 of the total area of SBMA belongs to Bataan, particularly Hermosa and Morong towns.(PNA via interaksyon.com)

Photo by interaksyon.com

read full story here - http://www.interaksyon.com/article/122413/sbma-forest-rangers-stop-hauling-of-logs-in-aeta-ancestral-land-in-bataan

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Fast attack submarine USS Texas in Subic Bay

The Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS Texas (SSN 775) arrived in Subic Bay Jan. 5 for a visit as part of its Indo-Asia-Pacific deployment.

With a crew of approximately 135, Texas conducts a multitude of missions to enhance proficiency of the submarine fleet. Texas is the second Virginia-class fast-attack submarine commissioned by the United States and is operated by some of the Navy’s finest and most well-trained officers and enlisted personnel.

Measuring more than 377 feet long and weighing more than 7,800 tons when submerged, Texas is one of the most technologically advanced submarines in the world. This submarine is capable of executing a multitude of missions including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, strike, surveillance and reconnaissance, irregular warfare, mine warfare and shallow water operations.

For many crew members, this is their first visit to the Philippines.

“Texas Sailors are hardworking and downright dedicated,” said Master Chief Machinist’s Mate Daniel Kloepfer, Texas’s chief of the boat. “Maintaining a forward-deployed nuclear submarine is not an easy task and Subic Bay will allow for some much deserved rest for the crew.”

“I can’t wait to get to the Philippines for the first time,” said Electronics Technician 2nd Class Keagan Garber. “I’m looking forward to exploring the great outdoors.”

Built in Newport News, Virginia from 2002 – 2004, Texas established its home in Groton Connecticut before transferring to Pearl Harbor in 2009. The boat is sponsored by former first lady Laura Bush. (USS Texas Public Affairs)

PHOTO:
The US Navy’s Virginia-class submarine USS Texas (SSN 775) is docked at the Alava Wharf of the Subic Bay Freeport Wednesday morning (January 6) for a routine port call. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

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Subic among Google PH’s top search items for vacation destinations in 2015

Leading global search engine Google has named the Subic Bay Freeport as among the 10 most popular trending search terms for Philippine vacation destinations in 2015.

The annual list puts Subic at Number 7 in the top charts of local vacation destination search terms in the Philippines right after Sundowners Vacation Villa, Bolinao, Pangasinan, which was at Number 1, Baguio City (2), Coron, Palawan (3), Cebu (4), El Puerto Marina, Lingayen, Pangasinan (5), and Tagaytay (6).

Rounding up this year’s top 10 search terms are Aquatico Royalle, Laguna (8), Baler, Aurora (9), and Antipolo (10).

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Roberto Garcia said that Subic has been gaining much attention as a vacation destination after it was recognized by the Department of Tourism (DOT) as the No. 1 tourist destination in Central Luzon for the past two years.

“Its inclusion among Google Philippines’ top 10 most searched local vacation destinations in 2015 simply validates this steadily growing interest and arrival of tourists in Subic,” Garcia said.

“We are proud of this fact and shall continue adding to Subic’s attractiveness and reputation, not only as a tourist destination but also as the theme park, triathlon, and sailing capital of the Philippines, as well as the Premier Convention Capital of Central Luzon, which is another title bestowed upon Subic by the DOT,” he added.

Gail Tan, Google Philippines’ head of communication and public affairs, said the annual list shows Filipinos’ “increasing involvement and interest” in current events and awareness of general knowledge.

“Year in Search is Google’s way of looking back at the meaningful moments that captured the people’s interest through the year,” Tan said.

“Locally, the trending search items of 2015 are a good reflection of the Filipinos’ increasing involvement and interest in the things that are happening around them, whether in historic national events or the breakout of a new pop culture icon,” she added. (RBB/MPD-SBMA)

https://www.google.com.ph/trends/topcharts#vm=trendingchart&cid=dc36c8f9-1710-49d7-8c7a-d3876506b715&geo=PH&date=2015&cat=

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