Olongapo City elevated to Hall of Fame as PWD-Friendly City in Region 3

The local government of Olongapo led by Mayor Rolen Paulino was elevated to the hall of fame after clinching the Most Outstanding PWD-Friendly City in Central Luzon for three consecutive years.

In accepting the award from the Regional Council on Disability Affairs, Paulino said this only shows that the local government of Olongapo gives priority in taking care of the city's PWD residents.

“We will not be receiving this award if not for our Persons with Disability Office under the care of Jun Pascua and his staff. They are doing a superb job,” Paulino said.

Among those who competed for the award were Mabalacat City, Malolos City, Angeles City, Tarlac City and San Jose del Monte.

PWD-friendly programs that set the city apart are its comprehensive documentation of PWDs, projects for PWDs such as feeding programs, free medical checkups, free dental services, and free eye check ups inclusive of free eyeglasses.

The local government also passed city ordinance no. 25 series of 2014 upholding the Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities, as well as other programs implemented by the City Social Welfare and Development Office.

The city will be vying for the same title at the national level. (SNL)

PHOTO:
Olongapo City Mayor Rolen Paulino receives a Plaque of Recognition from the Central Luzon Federation of Persons with Disability for his genuine support & contribution to the cause of PWDs. The plaque was awarded last December 5, 2014 at Stotsemberg Clark Field Angeles City.

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‘Hanjin town’ bracing for impact of development

CASTILLEJOS, Zambales—This third-class municipality is now expecting more benefits from business investments that accompany the growth of Hanjin, the South Korean company that has established a successful shipbuilding operation at the Subic Bay Freeport’s Redondo Peninsula.

While the Hanjin shipyard is geographically in Subic town, it is Castillejos, Subic’s next-door neighbor, that has experienced the most dramatic development impact from the growth of the Hanjin shipyard over the years.

“Since Hanjin started building its facility in 2006, Castillejos has experienced its biggest economic boom ever,” remarked Mayor Jose Angelo Dominguez last week, as he appeared at a dental and medical outreach project conducted by the shipbuilding company at the Hanjin Village here.

He said that, in particular, the influx of Hanjin workers—about 25,000 at last count—had resulted in the booming of businesses here in Castillejos, which is now easily the biggest “bedroom community” for shipyard workers.

Dominguez said most of the workers at Hanjin came to settle at Castillejos because the main road they take to their job site passes through the town’s Barangay Balaybay. The number of settlers increased faster in 2012 when Hanjin built its low-cost housing project here at Barangay Nagbunga.

“Balaybay and Nagbunga are now the biggest barangays in our town in terms of population,” Dominguez said. “The workers sleep here, so houses, apartments and rooms for rent flourished. Then, they also buy their food and other household needs here, so local businesses are growing,” the mayor added.

According to town records, Castillejos has experienced the biggest population growth spurt after Hanjin started operation.

In 2000 the town, which has the smallest land area among the 13 towns in Zambales, had a population of only 33,108. In 2007 when the Hanjin shipyard opened, the population of Castillejos rose to 42,910, with a growth rate of 3.64 percent yearly.

Just three years after, in 2010, the town’s population was already 48,845, with the growth rate now registering 4.83 percent.

The coming of Hanjin also coincided with the establishment here of the town’s first automatic teller machine booths, first mini-shopping mall, first restaurant franchise and first 7-Eleven convenience store, said Bernie Chiong, the mayor’s secretary.

In areas where most Hanjin workers rent their rooms, food stalls and videoke bars have also sprung up, adding to the income of local entrepreneurs, Chiong noted. He also said that, with more Hanjin workers in town, the shops in Castillejos now remain open until midnight, when these used to close at 5 p.m. owing to slow business.

Aside from providing economic benefits, Hanjin also regularly undertakes health and education outreach projects, Dominguez said, adding that the company even put up a new public elementary school at the Hanjin Village in time for the opening of classes this year.

“If this economic boom continues, Castillejos may eventually grow to become a city, thanks to Hanjin,” Dominguez added. (Henry Empeño, BusinessMirror)

http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/hanjin-town-bracing-for-impact-of-development/

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SBMA holds 1st Women’s Summit

Womenfolk here and around this premier free port received orientation on their rights, privileges, and opportunities as the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) made history by holding the first Women’s Summit in the community.

With the theme, “Ang Bagong Pinay,” the two-day gathering sought to promote the welfare and development of womenfolk and update them on the latest socio-economic and political issues that have significant bearing on them.

The event was organized by the SBMA thru its Gender and Development Focal Point System and as part of the SBMA’s week-long celebration of its 22nd founding anniversary.

“This is a historic event for SBMA in the sense that this is the first gathering to tackle gender and development,” remarked SBMA Chairman and Administrator Roberto Garcia as he welcomed participants last Wednesday.

“I am sure that from the line-up of speakers you have prepared, you will learn so much on how we can further promote the concept of ‘Ang Bagong Pinay’ and address the issues that confront women in the workplace today,” Garcia added.

No less than Camarines Sur 3rd District Representative Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo was guest of honor in the assembly and imparted her ideas on “Women and their Careers on being a Wife, Mother and Leader.”

Aside from Robredo, other speakers fired up the summit with timely discussions on the first day: Philip Morris Fortune Tobacco Corporation Inc. Director for External Affairs Varinia Tinga spoke on “Women in the Corporate World”; Subic Bay Colleges Inc. Vice President for Academic Affair Marilou Nicart tackled “Telecommuting for Women”; Sandiganbayan Third Division Executive Clerk of Court Dennis Pulma spoke on “Violence Against Women,” as well as RA 10398, an act declaring November 25 as National Consciousness Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Children; and SM elevator girl and YouTube sensation Cheridel Alejandrino urged womenfolk to “Be The Best That You Can Be.”

On the second day of lectures, FQ Mom Rose Fausto talked about “Financial Liberation for Women”; and Philippine Commission on Women Executive Director Emmeline Verzosa lectured on “Magna Carta of Women.”

Among those who trooped to the Women’s Summit were employees of the SBMA, workers of Subic Bay Freeport companies, employees of the Authority of Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB), and residents and students from Olongapo City and parts of Zambales.

Other activities during the week-long celebration of the SBMA anniversary were a jobs fair at the Harbor Point mall, where 10,386 job positions were opened to applicants; the annual recognition of the Ten Most Outstanding Freeport Workers who epitomize the best of what the Subic Bay Freeport has to offer in terms of workers’ performance; and the Milestone Service Awards that recognized around 200 SBMA employees who have been serving the agency for 15 and 20 years. (RFD/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTOS:

[1] Members of the United Women Artists Association of the Philippines hand over to SBMA Planning Development Office manager Amethya Koval (right) the finished piece "Ang Bagong Pinay,” created through interactive painting by the group during the two-day 1st Women’s Summit at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center in Subic Bay Freeport Zone. (AED/MPD-SBMA)

[2] Heads of community groups and government agencies sign a pledge of commitment for gender equality, responsive governance, and woman’s rights protection during the two-day 1st Women’s Summit at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center in the Subic Bay Freeport. Among those who signed the pledge were Olongapo City officials led by Mayor Rolen Paulino; Subic Bay Freeport Chamber of Commerce president Rose Baldeo; and representatives from the Civil Service Commission, the Department of Labor and Employment, and law enforcement agencies. (AED/MPD-SBMA)

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10 most outstanding Subic Freeport workers named

The Subic Bay Workforce Development Foundation, Inc. (SBWDFI) has announced this year’s 10 Most Outstanding Freeport Workers who have made positive contributions towards achieving productivity, harmony, and industrial peace inside the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

Atty. Severo Pastor Jr., head of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Labor Department and SBWDFI president, identified the winners as Alvin Begosa, Yehleen Cecilio, Gigi Estalilla, Dindo Dante Gonzaga, Edwin Madayag, Richard Nicdao, Romwel Pangilinan, Pedro Tadena Sr., and Gomer Tolentino.

The 10 awardees received plaques of recognition, cash prizes, and gift certificates, as well as words of appreciation from Subic Freeport officials.

Speaking during the awarding ceremony at the Subic Bay Arts Center (SuBAC), SBMA chairman Roberto Garcia said the 10 outstanding workers symbolize the professionalism, dedication, and passion of Filipino workers for the job entrusted to them by their respective companies.

He noted that Subic’s continuing increase in revenue collections, construction boom, and tourism growth only show that the Freeport is being maintained and operated by the finest workforce in the country today.

“Truly, if all workers in the country would only follow the examples shown by our 10 outstanding workers, the Philippines will not only have 7 percent gross domestic product, but more. And we can be assured of a better future ahead,” Garcia said.

Pastor, meanwhile, stressed that the SBWDFI has formulated this year a more tedious competitive selection process where candidates were chosen from the more than 90,000 workforce of the Freeport.

He added that to establish integrity in the selection process, an independent board of judges was formed. This was composed Dr. Zenia Mostoles, Zambales DepEd Superintendent, Dir. Virginia Bondoc of TESDA-Zambales, and Dir. Maria Teresita Cancio of the National Conciliation and Mediation Board- Region III, as head of the body.

Pastor said that the winners were noted for their outstanding performance and accomplishments. The first awardee, Alvin Begosa, started as room attendant at the Subic Bay Travelers Hotel in 2010 and rose to become property custodian today.

Meanwhile, Yehleen Cecilio of Polarmarine started as planning staff in 2003 and after four promotions due to her positive attitudes toward work, she is now the Production Support Section Supervisor.

Gigi Estalilla, a staff at the SBMA Public Relations Office, was a finalist in the 2008 search for SBMA Employee of the Year, and holds positions in a cooperative group in the Freeport, the newly-formed SBMA Employees Association, and the Zambales chapter of the LGBT group Ladlad.

Dindo Dante Gonzaga is a production foreman at Delta Production Phils., where he teaches co-workers on how to improve their products.

Edwin Madayag, of Hitachi Group, has worked with the company since 1998 as machine operator with devotion and faithfulness.

Hazel Valera, of GrainPro Phils., where she worked for seven years and was promoted to Senior Manager for Supply Chain.

A SBMA Volunteer in 1992, who was also employed as Production Plant Operator by the SBMA Public Works Group until his absorption by the Subic Water and Sewerage Company, Richard Nicdao is a dedicated employee who serves beyond schedule.

Meanwhile, from being a lifeguard at the Subic Bay Marine Exploratorium since 2009, Romwel Pangilinan was promoted recently as officer-in-charge of safety events after showing his loyalty and dedication.

Another worker from Delta Production Philippines, PedroTadena Sr., was cited for sharing the skills and knowledge he learned from the company with his co-workers.

Lastly, Gomer Tolentino of Nicera Phils. started out as Electronics Design Engineer in 2001 and is now the Senior Product Manager of the firm. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:
Awardees of the 2014 Ten Outstanding Freeport Workers proudly display their trophies during the awards ceremony held at the Subic Bay Arts Center on Monday, November 24. The search is an annual project of the Subic Bay Workforce Development Foundation, Inc. and the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority. (AED/MPD-SBMA)

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Subic expands port, road for P11B

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority is expanding Subic port as well as build a new road that will directly connect to SCTEX (Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway) for an estimated cost of P11 billion in preparation of a huge spill over from the Manila port three years from now.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Roberto Garcia told reporters during an interview at the recent Manila Ports Summit that the expansion of the port could cost P7 billion while the new road at P4 billion.

“This expansion is immediate because the volume of cargoes going to Manila is expected to reach 6 million twenty-footer equivalent units (TEUs) in two to three years the existing 3 million TEUs at present,” he said. Of the 3 million TEUs, 15 percent of that comes from the northern and central Luzon areas, which could easily shift to Subic.

“We are in the process of updating an old study of the seaport so we can submit this proposal to NEDA and we can start this project immediately because it will take three years to build a new port and a road network,” Garcia said.

Garcia explained that the two ports in New Container Terminal 1 and 2, which are owned and operated by Subic ICTSI Inc., a unit of International Container Terminal Services Inc., have berthing capacity of 300,000 TEUs each or a combined capacity of 600,000 TEUs.

The current Subic port cargo volume is only 75,000 TEUs or at least 15 percent port capacity. But with 4 international shipping lines (SITC, APL, Wan Hai and NYK) now calling in Subic, they have opened the freeport to wider international coverage that includes China, Jàpan, Taiwan and Singapore.

“These four shipping lines are expected to boost cargo volume to 250,000 to 300,000 TEUs next year,” he said.

This means NCT 1 and 2 could increase their capacity utilization to 30 percent by next year already.

“If we don’t expand the port now, it might be too late when cargoes in Manila reach 6 M TEUs in three years,” he added. Subic and Batangas ports have been designated by the government as alternative Manila ports following the port congestion in Manila.

Garcia said they have already identified another 15-hectare lot for the new port. SBMA may bid out the new port, he said.

The other component in the SBMA plan is to construct a bypass road that will run through Bataan and into the SCTEX.

Garcia stressed that the current TIPO road is running out of capacity with 68 trucks an hour plying this Clark-Subic expressway.

‘So even if we don’t expand the port we still have to build this new road,” he added. It will be a 23-kilometer bypass road that will run through Bataan and into SCTEX.

“This is the long term solution to the Manila port congestion, but this can happen in the short term,” he said.

Meantime, Garcia said that SBMA revenues in the first ten months this year went up by 21 percent while operating revenues grew 42 percent. Combined with unrealized foreign exchange savings in 2013 and 2014, the freeport is expected to post 152 percent increase in net income this year over last year, which was already a record year.

Revenues this year could exceed the P2.5-billion target for the year. For 2015, Garcia expects revenues to reach P2.8 billion largely driven by higher port revenues.

SBMA is the 9th biggest government-owned and controlled corporation revenue contributor to the national coffers with P243 million in cash dividends to the government in 2013. (Bernie Magkilat, Manila Bulletin)

PHOTO:
BUSY PORT – Hauling trucks and reach stackers move some of the container vans in Subic Bay Freeport at the New Container Terminal-1 in Subic Bay Freeport. Manila port has transferred most of its overstaying cargoes to Subic to help ease the port congestion felt in Manila. (Jonas Reyes)

http://www.mb.com.ph/subic-expands-port-road-for-p11b/

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10,000 workers needed in Subic Freeport

The Subic Bay Freeport is in need of more than 10,000 workers to help boost the investment here, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Roberto Garcia announced during a press conference on Tuesday.

With the massive growth in port traffic and more orders being made to Freeport investors, he said the current number of workers here will not suffice.

He added that in ensuring fast processing of containers here, the SBMA needs to double its current number of cashiers.

The shipbuilding company Hanjin Heavy Industries and Construction-Philippines (HHIC-Phil) alone needs 10,000 more workers due to the influx of orders to build cargo vessels, said Garcia. (Jonas Reyes)

http://www.mb.com.ph/luzon-newsbits-for-november-27-2014/

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NYK line makes first port call in Subic

Japan-based Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK) Line, one of the largest shipping companies in the world, made its first direct route to Port of Subic from Kaohsiung, joining other major shippers in using this free port as a more viable alternative to the congested Port of Manila.

NYK’s MV Jakarta Towers, a 688-gross tonnage Liberian-flagged cargo vessel, made its first port call at Subic on Saturday and docked at the New Container Terminal (NCT)-2 after sailing a day-and-a-half from Kaohsiung, Taiwan.

The cargo vessel unloaded about 110 container vans destined to consignees in Southern Luzon, including Toyota Motor (Phils.) Corp. in Santa Rosa, Laguna; Canon Business Machines (Phils.) Corp. inTanauan, Batangas; and parts of Metro Manila.

The ship also unloaded cargos for consignees in Central and Northern Luzon. These included Sumi Phils. WiringSystem Corp. at the Hermosa Ecozone Industrial Park in Bataan; International Wiring System (Phils.) at Luisita Industrial Park and Special Ecozone inTarlac; and Yokohama Tires at Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga.

The ship departed on the same day for the Port of Manila, and then later for Singapore after loading almost the same number of containers.

NYK Group National Sales, Marketing and Outports manager Mary Grace Golez said that the port call is part of the ad hoc operation of NYK in Subic and will serve as basis of assessment for opening a full operation here or have Subic only as an alternate port.

“It all depends on the outcome of the assessment after several port calls. But we hope everything would go well,”said Golez.

She added that should the assessment go well, the new route—Kaohsiung-Subic-Singapore—would open Port of Subic to major transshipment ports that connect to the rest of the world’s trade routes, especially in ASEAN countries, Africa, Europe, and North America.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority(SBMA) Chairman Roberto Garcia earlier announced that a number of shipping companies in Southeast Asia are starting to consider using the Port of Subic after experiencing long delays in unloading and loading of containerized cargos in Manila.

This was attributed to the congestion at the Port of Manila, which forced cargo vessels to wait off Manila Bay for at least a week before docking and unloading cargos.

Because of this, President Aquino through Executive Order 172, has classified the Port of Batangas and the New Container Terminal-2 in Subic as extensions of the Port of Manila.

Golez noted, however, that the Port of Batangas, which is nearer Manila, was already congested a month after the issuance of EO 172.

Golez also noted the overwhelming support extended by the SBMA to NYK, especially in working out the agreement for the new route to Subic.

Early this month, China-based SITC Container Lines (Phils.), Inc. also opened a direct route from Xiamen,China, to Subic with its container ship MV Sicilia making its maiden voyage to Subic and unloading 22 containers at NCT-2. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)


PHOTO:
A trailer truck hauls off a cargo container from MVJakarta Tower, a vessel chartered by the Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK) Line for its first ad hoc call at the Port of Subic. MV Jakarta Tower, which will be used exclusively for NYK bookings, arrived at Subic’s New Container Terminal on Sunday, November 23. (AED/MPD-SBMA)

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ICTSI to expand capacity of its Subic terminal

As government hesitates to allow International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) to expand its Manila port operations, the company is seeking to expand its container terminal in Subic Bay, whose capacity utilization is increasing, as part of its strategy to “future-proof” its terminals.

Christian Gonzales, vice president and Asia Region head of ICTSI, told reporters in an interview that this is part of its five-year $300 million to $400-million Medium Term Development program.

Initially, the company has allocated $12 million for rubber-tire gantry (RTG) cranes for both Subic New Container Terminal-2 (NCT-2) and Manila International Container Terminal (MICT).

Gonzales said it is not yet certain how many RTGs will go to Subic, which has already six, and MICT as this will depend on market demand.

“We won’t be adding quay cranes in Subic because they have already four.

In Manila, we plan on adding two but that’s over 2 years depending on how we see the market developing,” he said.

Gonzalez noted that ICTSI’s strategy in its strategic expansion planning has always been to “future proof” its terminals. Subic has been designated by the government as alternative to Manila port in light of the ongoing port congestion.

While the additional equipment and capacities may only be a small portion of its overall MTD plan as there is no need to expand the pier but to continue with two berths for the big ships, Gonzales said they may also need to expand the port area in coordination with Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority.

NCT-2 has a total of 13.16 hectare terminal Area; 14-hectare container yard; 280 meters quay; controlling depth of 13 meters; 6 truck lanes; 0.7 hectare truck holding area; and 60 ton weigh bridge.

He noted there are still available lots in Subic that they can expand into.

ICTSI has already discussed this plan with SBMA Chairman and Administrator Roberto Garcia who told them to possibly do it in stages.

“Chairman Garcia is very flexible, very aggressive. We are just making sure that Subic is ready to accommodate more traffic as much as possible,” he said.

According to Gonzalez, the capacity utilization of NCT-2 in Subic is expected to reach 21 percent by next year. NYK shipping line has their first call on Monday.

The government has been against further expansion of the Manila port, but Gonzalez said there has been some softening of government stance as they now allowed the expansion of berth 7.

Gonzalez explained there are two kinds of expansion, one is just expanding capacity to allow bigger but fewer ships to call and making the Manila port operations more efficient. The other type of expansion is where a player just wants to get a bigger market share.

Gonzalez does not want to divulge its market share in the Manila port but said that they understand the government’s move to promote Subic and Batangas.

He, however, stressed that the “promotion for Batangas and Subic should be done by getting industries to move there not by taking the cargo of somebody.”

Gonzalez even said that the shift of cargoes from the MICT to Subic following the port congestion and the designation of Subic and Batangas as alternative to Manila ports has been very small and just temporary.

Those that shifted permanently are those that are really from the nearby areas.

“It does not mean that while you have the port, the cargo volume will go to you,” he stressed. (Bernie Magkilat, Manila Bulletin)

http://www.mb.com.ph/ictsi-to-expand-capacity-of-its-subic-terminal/

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Bright outlook for Subic all the way to 2016

The stability of the SBMA (Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority) and its unyielding performance, coupled with the current business in-flow in the Freeport will definitely create a strong economic surge in the Freeport Zone in 2015 and in 2016.

This was the prediction of Subic Bay Freeport Chamber of Commerce (SBFCC) President Rose Baldeo during the Subic Bay Outlook Towards 2016 Economic Employment Summit held at the Olongapo City Convention Center last week.


The prediction Baldeo made was based on SBMA’s accomplishment of besting 2012’s net profit record of P824 million with last year’s P1.2-billion net profit, highest in the entire 21 years of existence.

SBMA Chairman Roberto Garcia also stated that the agency’s gross revenue last year of P2.09 billion and the Earnings Before Interest Taxes Depreciation Amortization (EBITDA) of P992 million are the highest levels in the history of the SBMA.

Garcia also pointed out the increase in port traffic as this Subic Freeport became the alternative port for Manila, thanks to Executive Order 172. Garcia said that Subic’s cargo volume is expected to hit more than 70,000 TEUs this year from 38,000 TEUs last year.

Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK) Line made its first direct call at the Subic Port to help solve the current concerns in Manila. According to NYK Manager Mary Grace Golez, the Subic call is marked by many firsts, opening more opportunities for Philippine shipping.

“This will be the first service in the Philippines to make a direct call from Japan to Subic, in addition to the regular Taiwan-Subic call. It will also be the first service to call from Subic to Singapore, a major transshipment port providing numerous connections to East Asia, the Middle East, South Asia, Europe, Africa, North America, Australia and New Zealand ports,” she said.

Baldeo said, “Outlook-wise, we as locators and investors are beginning to feel the change of the business climate in the Subic Bay Freeport. Slowly and steadily, the SBMA has begun to adjust to the needs of its investors businesses.”

“But these positive outlooks require a great cooperation; we the locators see the need for an improved working relationship or partnership with the local governments, the educational institutions, the SBMA, and other concerned government agencies including the local businesses in the city and in the nearby provinces,” she said.

To help entice more shipping lines to use Subic, the SBMA cut its port fees starting October 1, even if this would result in losses of about $10 million to $15 million for the state agency. (Jonas Reyes, Manila Bulletin)

PHOTO:
SUBIC SHIPPING SHAPES UP — A truck hauls off a cargo container from the ‘M/V Jakarta Tower,’ a cargo vessel chartered by the Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK) Line, after docking at the NCT-1 of Subic Bay Freeport. The NYK Line made its first direct call at the Subic Port to help solve the current concerns in Manila.

http://www.mb.com.ph/bright-outlook-for-subic-all-the-way-to-2016/

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Subic Freeport land row far from over

A TRIAL court judge in Olongapo City is now in hot water after criminal and administrative complaints had been filed against him for stopping a construction project on a disputed 1-hectare property inside the Subic Freeport Zone.

Charged for violation of the Anti-graft and Corrupt Practices Act before the Ombudsman is Judge Richard Paradeza of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) in Olongapo City.

An administrative complaint was also filed against Paradeza before the Supreme Court (SC) for allegedly “knowingly rendering an unjust decision” based on Article 204 of the Revised Penal Code.

The cases were filed by Marianito B. Fernandez of the Subic Coastal Development Corp. (SCDC), through his legal counsel, Bonifacio Alentajan.

Fernandez also sought the immediate inhibition of Paradeza from handling the land-dispute case.

The cases were filed after Paradeza issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) on the construction of a manufacturing facility on the 1-hectare property by Japanese Cresc Inc., based on a petition by a former Zambales governor Vicente Magsaysay.

In filing the motion for inhibition, Fernandez said Paradeza had lost the “cold neutrality” of a judge, since he could no longer achieve justice from the court.

Fernandez asked that civil case 119-0-2014 and the case should be re-raffled to another branch of the RTC in Olongapo City for disposition.

The Japanese company had also echoed SCDC’s position, saying the TRO should not have been issued at all as it lacked merit and Magsaysay had no legal personality to file the case.

“We invested in Subic Freeport in response to the Aquino administration’s efforts to attract foreign investments to the country. But we are now having second thoughts about our investments here as we now find ourselves in a legal dispute that has jeopardized our business expansion and impaired our capability to meet global demand for our ink products,” Cresc said.

“This is not only a legal and business dispute. It will also have an adverse impact on the Aquino administration’s drive to attract more foreign investments,” Cresc added.

The case started in 2002, when the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) leased 16.5 hectares to SCDC, a private firm.

Magsaysay offered to assist SCDC in clearing the leased property, where it built the Moonbay Marina Resort.

In 2008 SCDC was shocked when Magsaysay demanded that he be given control of 1 hectare of the 16.5-hectare property as “payment” for his unsolicited help in clearing the leased property.

Since it doubted the legality of Magsaysay’s demand, SCDC referred the case to SBMA.

A memorandum of agreement (MOA) was later signed by the SBMA, SCDC and Magsaysay’s Mobi, and Red Enterprises (MRE).

The 2008 MOA stipulated that SBMA would allow MRE to sublease the 1-hectare property if the Magsaysay-owned company would meet all of the SBMA’s terms and conditions within 30 days of the MOA signing.

The 2008 MOA also clearly provided that, at the event of the MRE’s failure to meet the MOA’s terms and conditions, and failure to secure a sublease from SBMA, the 1-hectare property would remain as a leasehold of SCDC.

As confirmed by SBMA Deputy Administrator for Legal Affairs Randy Escolango, the 2008 MOA did not take effect because MRE failed to meet the MOA’s terms and it failed to secure a sublease from the SBMA for the property.

Not only did SBMA not issue MRE a sublease, SBMA also affirmed that legal control of the subject property never left SCDC, as SBMA continued collecting from SCDC all pertinent fees on it, such as base rent, sublease share and monthly billings.

Likewise, SBMA confirmed SCDC’s right over the disputed property and approved the survey plan, covering the one-hectare subleased by SCDC to Cresc in 2013.

The sublease between SCDC and Cresc was also deemed approved by SBMA when the latter approved Cresc’s development plans on the area, which allowed the Japanese company to undertake business expansion. (Joel R. San Juan, BusinessMirror)

http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/subic-freeport-land-row-far-from-over/

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Rich cultural exchange between Filipinos and Koreans in Subic

“South Korea and the Philippines have a long history together. South Korea’s political, economic and cultural ties with the Philippines are stronger than before.”

This was the statement made by Hanjin Heavy Industries and Construction-Philippines President Jin Kyu Ahn during the opening ceremony of the Korean Cultural Festival at the Redondo shipbuilding facility on Wednesday.

With the theme: “Hi Korea Anneong ASEAN,” the Korea Cultural Festival is in line with the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the relationship between South Korea and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The celebration is a precursor to the two-day Korea-ASEAN Summit that will take place on December 11 in Busan, South Korea.

Ahn said that the evolving partnership between the Philippines and South Korea rests on a foundation of shared values and interests. He added that the vessels made by the company are a testament of the two countries’ ingenuity and hardwork.

Director for Korean Cultural Center Hon. Chung-Suk Oh and other Korean diplomatic officials who came to the event were welcomed by some 25,000 shipbuilding workers at the Redondo facility.

The Filipino workers were treated to a Korean traditional dance, as five beautiful Korean performers dressed in Hanbok gracefully danced onstage. A ballet dance was also showcased in the event.

Other highlights of the night were a balancing act, a traditional drum exhibition and a band performance by Korean artists. (Jonas Reyes, Manila Bulletin)

PHOTO:
KOREAN HERITAGE – Dancers in colorful Korean Hanbok perform during the Korea Culture Festival at the Hanjin shipbuilding facility in Redondo Peninsula, Subic on Wednesday.

http://www.mb.com.ph/rich-cultural-exchange-between-filipinos-and-koreans-in-subic/

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Gov’t, private sector tackle port congestion on Nov 27

Government officials would meet next week with various stakeholders in the Port of Manila to update them on the ongoing efforts to ease the port congestion and other concerns, Communications secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said yesterday.

Coloma said the meeting had been set for November 27 at the Manila Diamond Hotel with some 300 people representing the government, port operators and the private stakeholders like the importers, exporters and truckers are expected to attend.

Coloma said Cabinet Secretary Jose Rene Almendras would represent the government including members of the Departments of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Transportation and Communications (DOTC), and Finance (DOF), Land Transportation Office (LTO), Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Bureau of Customs (BOC) and the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA).

The congestion of the Manila Port had worsened over the past months following the imposition of a truck ban by the Manila local government early this year.

This resulted in use of the Ports of Batangas and Subic as an alternate port to Manila, and release of cargoes on Sundays, among others. (Malaya Business Insight)

http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/business/gov%E2%80%99t-private-sector-tackle-port-congestion-nov-27

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SBMA officials, staff spread early Christmas cheer

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), a government owned and controlled corporation (GOCC), is composed of employees with an employment status of either plantilla or contract of service (CS).

Most of those CS employees are the old ladies who sweep the streets and some building inside this premier Freeport. And being CS means that their bonuses are incorporated in their salaries, leaving almost no spare to save on a rainy day.


With most of them under “Salary Grade: 3,” expect that their monthly pay to stay within P7,000, not really enough to send their children to college. Now that the Yuletide season is upon us, these elderly women will be celebrating Christmas and New Year with only their usual monthly salary.

But the SBMA is not without any kind-hearted employees among its rank-and-file and executives. In a simple yet meaningful early Christmas gift-giving, employees and their bosses dug deep into their pockets and gave their less-fortunate workers of the SBMA food packs last weekend.

Spearheaded by the agency’s Legal Affairs Department, around 300 rank-and-file employees were given food packs by their fellow SBMA workers and the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary’s 111th Squadron.

PCGA 111th Squadron Commander Randy Escolango said that these are just small tokens for the services rendered by the less-fortunate workers to the SBMA. Escolango, a deputy administrator of the SBMA, said that both the Legal Affairs and the PCGA chipped-in to give these workers some Yuletide cheer. (Jonas Reyes, Manila Bulletin)

PHOTO:
GIFT-GIVING — (From left) Captain Henric David, Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary (PCGA) director, and PCGA 111th Squadron Commander Randy Escolango distribute a food pack to an employee of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority in their early Christmas gift-giving event last Friday.

http://www.mb.com.ph/sbma-officials-staff-spread-early-christmas-cheer/

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UK-based firm builds new PH plant

David Brown Gear Systems, a global United Kingdom-headquartered leader in gear engineering, has expanded its world wide presence with the establishment of a new facility in the Philippines.

On Thursday, David Brown opened its new industrial gearbox service and repair facility in Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Philippines.

Fully equipped with modern gearbox strip, condition assessment, repair, rebuild, assembly and test facilities, David Brown Gear Systems (Philippines) Inc. will repair and upgrade gearboxes in industrial applications including mines, power stations, cement and sugar processing plants as well as oil and gas facilities and marine vessels.

“David Brown works in industries where maximum process availability is critical and we are proud to be the only industrial gearbox OEM [original equipment manufacturer] operating a dedicated service center in the Philippines,” David Brown Asia general manager Scott Gilmour said in a statement.

“Our new service center in Subic Bay brings us even closer to our valued customers and is a major milestone in the company’s plan to deliver premium gear engineering expertise throughout Asia,” he added.

For his part, British Ambassador to the Philippines Asif Ahmad said it is good to see another world-leading British company choosing the Philippines for its operations.

“Filipino businesses in industries such as mining, energy and construction will benefit from David Brown’s experience and expertise,” Ahmad said.

“With more than 150 years in the business, David Brown offers top-notch specialist transmission engineering and repair services and adheres to the highest global quality assurance standards,” he added.

Established in 1860, David Brown is a world-leader in gear engineering and service support working in core industries such as defense, oil & gas, mining and minerals processing. (MBM, Manila Bulletin)

http://www.mb.com.ph/uk-based-firm-builds-new-ph-plant/

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20 emergency vehicles for Yolanda –devastated areas arrive in Subic

Twenty emergency vehicles from Japan intended for distribution in typhoon areas affected by Typhoon “Yolanda” in Tacloban, Leyte arrived at the Port of Subic on Tuesday.

The vehicles were among the shipment on board the Panama-registered M/V Ligulao, which docked at the former Naval Supply Depot (NSD) terminal here.

Mariko Watanabe, Third Secretary at the Economic Section of the Embassy of Japan, said that the vehicles, comprising 17 fire trucks and three ambulances, have a total value of US$202,760 or about P8.5 million.

Watanabe, who was here in Subic to personally supervise the unloading of the vehicles and their transfer to the conversion facility, said the vehicles which were funded through a Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP).

The vehicles, all right-hand drive, will be first converted into left-hand drive in Subic, which is said to be the only place in the country which the government of Japan certifies to meet the safety standards in converting RHD vehicles to LHD.

Watanabe said the vehicles are part of the “The Project for Providing Emergency Vehicles for the Typhoon-Affected Areas in the Philippines" signed by Chargés d'affaires to the Philippines Tetsuro Amano and Chief Superintendent Carlito Romero, the Bureau of Fire Protection’s director for plans and standard.

The donations are expected to help strengthen the capability of the Philippine National Police (PNP)and the Bureau of Fire (BFP) in responding to disasters and managing emergencies.

It is expected that the vehicles will be driven to their destinations in the Visayas on the second week of December after the necessary test drives here. The send-off ceremony to will be attended by the Ambassador of Japan and Philippine government officials.

Watanabe said that a group of at least 12 BFP personnel will be sent to Japan to undergo development and skill trainings for them to properly operate all the second-hand but modernly-equipped ambulances and fire trucks.

Meanwhile, Chairman Roberto Garcia of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) was glad to note that Subic was chosen to be the offloading point for the emergency vehicles, saying that the least Subic could do in helping the Yolanda-devastated areas is to provide a facility for their unloading and conversion.

“At the same time, the skills and talents of workers in Subic are being recognized in the international level in motor conversion of right-hand drive to left-hand drive,” Garcia said. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:
A firetruck goes down the ramp of MV Ligulao, a Panamanian-registered vehicles-carrier ship, which unloaded emergency vehicles at the NSD Pier of the Subic Bay Freeport on Tuesday afternoon. A total of three ambulances and 17 firetrucks arrived in Subic as donation from the Japanese government to areas affected by Typhoon Yolanda in the Visayas. (AED)

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NYK opens direct routes to Subic Freeport

Another international shipping line has opened a direct route between this free port and the major ports of Japan and Singapore, joining a growing number of shippers that now call on Subic following its classification as an extension port of Manila.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Roberto V. Garcia announced on Wednesday that Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK) Line, one of the world's leading transportation companies, will open direct routes from Japan to Subic and from Subic to Singapore.

Garcia finalized an agreement for the new shipping route late last month with Capt. Chak Kwok Wai, chairman and managing director of the NYK Group; Ian T. Maambong, NYK sales manager for export; Dan Florentino, chief operating officer of the Transnational Diversified Group; and Tony Ramos, administrative officer of Subic Bay International Terminal Corp.

“The opening of NYK’s direct routes to Subic is intended to provide an alternative solution to the port congestion in Manila,” Garcia explained.

“NYK has stressed that it opened the routes as a contribution to help solve the current concerns in Manila and in response to the Philippine government’s request to decongest Manila ports,” Garcia added.

The NYK Group, which is based in Japan, is a comprehensive global-logistics enterprise offering ocean, land, and air transport services.

Under the agreement, NYK will be providing Subic discharge and load options for urgent cargoes, thereby helping to minimize their vessel’s overall port stay in Manila.

Garcia said that NYK will start an adhoc call at the Port of Subic using its 2,300-TEU capacity target vessel MV Jakarta Tower exclusively for NYK bookings. Jakarta Tower is scheduled to make its first Subic call on November 22.

Daniel Ventanilla, general manager of NYK Fil-Japan Shipping Corp., said in a message to Garcia that NYK’s new line to Subic is marked by many milestones.

“This will be the first service in the Philippines to make a direct call from Japan to Subic, in addition to the regular Taiwan-Subic call,” Ventanilla said.

“It will also be the first service to call from Subic to Singapore, a major transshipment port providing numerous connections to East Asia, the Middle East, South Asia, Europe, Africa, North America, Australia and New Zealand ports,” he added.

The SBMA said earlier that the Southeast Asian shipping community is starting to notice the potentials of the Port of Subic as an ideal port to move and transship both containerized and bulk cargo shipments.
​
"With the entry of NYK, our port would virtually become a gateway to ASEAN, Africa, Europe, and North America," Garcia noted.

Last month, China-based SITC Container Lines Philippines, Inc. opened a direct route from Xiamen, China to Subic when its container ship MV Sicilia made its maiden voyage to Subic and unloaded 22 containers at the New Container Terminal (NCT) 2.

The cargoes included products from Guangxi, Sichuan and Shanghai, all in China, respectively for Orica Philippines in Limay, Bataan; Nestle Philippines Inc. in Cabuyao, Laguna; and Manila World Transport, Inc. in Metro Manila. (HEE/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:
NEW SHIPPING LINE: SBMA Chairman Roberto V. Garcia (left) meets with representatives of the NYK Group South Asia Pte Ltd. to discuss the potential of NYK Shipping Line calling on the Port of Subic. Present during the meeting are, from far left: Tony Ramos, admin officer of Subic Bay International Terminal Corp.; Ian T. Maambong, sales manager for export, NYK Group; Capt. Chak Kwok Wai, chairman and managing director, NYK Group; and Dan C. Florentino, chief operating officer, Transnational Diversified Group.

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Asian ports meet in Subic to strengthen regional integration

Leaders and delegates from eight major ports in Asia are meeting at the Port of Subic for the three-day 16th General Assembly and Symposium of the International Network of Affiliated Ports (INAP), which began Wednesday.

The delegates came from the INAP-member ports of Colombo in Sri Lanka, Mokpo New Port and Dangjin in South Korea, Tanjung Perak in Indonesia, Qingdao in China, and Subic and Cebu in the Philippines.

With the theme, “Opportunities of ASEAN Integration,” the gathering focuses on port innovations, as well as mutual opportunities for increased competitiveness, productivity, and cooperation.

The meeting also paved the way for outgoing INAP chairman Gov. Masanao Ozaki of the Kochi Prefecture in Japan to officially turn over the INAP leadership to Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Roberto Garcia.

As head of the host port, Garcia opened the conference, pointing out that the event is very important, not only for the Philippines, but also for all the ASEAN countries that rely on their ports for increased commerce.

“As with the theme, we should take advantage of the opportunities of ASEAN integration and explore the business opportunities each port and host city is ready to offer,” Garcia said.

Garcia added that the Port of Subic is eyeing a major role in Philippine shipping after President Aquino declared Subic and the Port of Batangas as extensions of the Port of Manila, which has long suffered from port congestion.

Presenting the Subic Bay Freeport’s role in the ASEAN Integration, SBMA OIC-deputy administrator for business and investment group Ronnie Yambao noted that the Subic Freeport is being utilized as a manufacturing base and logistics center by local and foreign investors from the region.

He added that Subic, along with other Asian ports, has joined the Asian Cruise Terminals Association (ACTA), which is considered a strategic move to attract major cruise ships plying the Asian tourism route.

“With these developments, the Port of Subic is playing key roles in the ASEAN integration by serving as transshipment hub in this part of the region,” Yambao added.

Meanwhile, Prof. Paolo Jamil Francisco of the Asian Institute of Management (AIM) who talked about ASEAN integration, said that the concept is becoming accepted by ASEAN countries and is now being practiced by many investors and manufacturers.

Francisco cited as an example a popular car manufacturer, which produces parts in various ASEAN countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and the Philippines.

Francisco urged the attending INAP members to cooperate with the government, “co-opete” (compete-cooperate) with other firms, consolidate capabilities and strengths, and take advantage of the challenge.

“While competing with other firms, everyone must cooperate with them on how to improve their products, and meet the required materials and supplies,” he said.

Francisco’s statement was supported by Roberto Locsin, general manager of Subic Bay International Terminal Corp. (SBITC), saying two Japanese companies are now shipping cargoes via Subic as a result of the congestion in the Port of Manila. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:
SBMA Chairman Roberto V. Garcia (middle) links arms with other leaders of the International Network of Affiliated Ports (INAP) in front of the iconic Spanish Gate during the opening of the 16th INAP General Assembly and Symposium at the Subic Bay Freeport.  The three-day conference will focus on port innovations and the promotion of competitiveness, productivity and regional cooperation. (AED)

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Apple supplier Foxconn mulls a manufacturing facility in PH

Foxconn Technology Group, the world’s largest computer manufacturer and supplier to Apple Inc., is looking a closer look at the Philippines as company officials visited various economic zones in the country.

Amadeo R. Perez Jr., chairman of the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO), told reporters that Foxconn officials came over three months ago and were brought to various ecozones, including the country’s Freeport zones Subic and Clark, and Calabarzon areas such as Batangas, Laguna and Cavite.

“They are looking into several areas and they have lots of considerations, including fung shui,” Perez said. So far, Perez said there has been no word yet from Foxconn.

Government investment promotion agencies Board of Investments and the Philippine Economic Zone Authority started courting this Taiwanese firm in 2012 yet.

Foxconn has been mulling about relocating some of its capacities outside of its production hub in mainland China due to rising wage rate and shortage of available workers and has included the Philippines in its shortlist of countries as investment destination.

The company employs 1.2 million people at its China facilities producing laptops, tables and PCs for the export market. Aside from the rising cost of wage, the lack of available manpower has turned off some of multinational firms, which relocated in China based on these attractions.

Foxconn is a multinational business group anchored by the Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd., a Republic of China-registered corporation headquartered in Tucheng, Taiwan.

As the world’s largest manufacturer of electronics and computer components, Foxconn mainly manufactures on contract to other companies. Among other things, Foxconn produces the Mac mini, the iPod, the iPad, and the iPhone for Apple Inc.; Intel-branded motherboards for Intel Corp.; various orders for American computer manufacturers Dell and Hewlett-Packard; motherboards for UK computer manufacturer Zoostorm; the PlayStation 2 and PlayStation 3 for Sony; the Wii for Nintendo; the Xbox 360 for Microsoft, cell phones for Motorola, the Amazon Kindle, and Cisco equipment.

It assembles an estimated 40 percent of the smartphones, computers and other electronic gadgets sold around the world. Foxconn’s decisions set standards other manufacturers must compete with.

It has 13 factories in nine Chinese cities employing 1.2 million. Foxconn is the world’s largest maker of electronic components and the largest exporter in Greater China. Foxconn is primarily an original design manufacturer and its clients include major American, European and Japanese electronics and information technology companies. Notable products which the company manufactures include the iPad, iPhone, Kindle, PlayStation 3, Wii and Xbox 360.

Foxconn has been identified by the Global Marketing Intelligence System (GMIS) of the Department of Trade and Industry as a potential investor. Companies targeted under GMIS for investment promotion must have four common characteristics: Mass employers, the technology used in their current production is within the capability of the Philippines and can be serviced by Filipinos; if a potential company is located outside of Asia, that company must have an existing operation in Asia; and if located in the Middle East or in the Americans, they must have operation abroad. (Manila Bulletin)

https://ph.news.yahoo.com/apple-supplier-foxconn-mulls-manufacturing-facility-ph-162738637.html

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Port of Subic bustles with more ship calls

[1] The MV Front Runner, a Panamanian-registered vessel, unloads grains at the Mega Grain Terminal while Singaporean-registered container vessels MV Thana Bhum and MV Spirit of Colombo unload cargo containers at the New Container Terminal in the Subic Bay Freeport in this photo taken November 4, 2014. (AED)

[2] A stacker truck gets moving at the New Container Terminal in the Subic Bay Freeport, as the Singaporean-registered cargo vessels MV Thana Bhum and MV Spirit of Colombo unload container boxes in this photo taken November 4, 2014. (AED)

[3] Trailer trucks get busy at the New Container Terminal in the Subic Bay Freeport, as Singaporean-registered cargo vessels MV Thana Bhum and MV Spirit of Colombo unload container boxes in this photo taken November 4, 2014. (AED)

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MOA signed empowering SBMA, 3 more port authorities to require security compliance

CITING terrorism as the number one threat in transportation, four port authorities yesterday signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the Office for Transportation Security (OTS) on the issuance of security certification for Philippine-registered vessels and port facilities.

The MOA will further empower Cebu Port Authority (CPA), Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (Ceza) and Regional Ports Management Authority (RPMA) of the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) in requiring security compliance of port operators and in imposing penalties on violations.

The MOA was signed by OTS Administrator Roland Recomono, CPA General Manager Edmund Tan, Jerome Martinez for SBMA, Dhart Carpio for Ceza and Hanie Bud for RPMA.

Monitoring

Under the MOA, and in the case of Cebu, a vessel owner or port operator will submit a security plan, such as X-ray machine for passenger screening and manual screening of cargoes, to CPA. The CPA will review and assess the plan and, if in order, endorse it to OTS for second review and approval.

Once the OTS approves the plan, it will assign an oversight team to monitor compliance. If the plan has been complied with, then the OTS will issue a certificate of compliance.

Reconomo said the security plan and compliance must be in accordance with Chapter XI-2 of the Safety of Life at Sea 74 and the International Standard for Port Facilities Security, both imposed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

Abaya’s message

The signing was witnessed by Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC) Undersecretary Jualianito Bucayan Jr., port officials, port operators, shipping lines owners and operators, and other maritime industry stakeholders.

In DOTC Secretary Antonio Abaya’s message read by Bucayan, Abaya said sea transport and maritime infrastructure and the public are living in an era where the ever-changing threats of violence can impact our daily lives at any time.

“As a consequence, we have to find ways of trying to prevent the atrocities that might take place by having mechanism to respond should disaster strike,” Abaya said.

“Terrorism existed yesterday, occurs today and will persist tomorrow. Terrorists have continued to target the transportation system to publicize their cause or ideology. We are all witness to the emergence of global attacks in the recent past to the security and safety of our riding public either in land, maritime and civil aviation,” he said.

To counter these unlawful acts of terrorism, Abaya said it is imperative that transportation security infrastructure should be effective.

“In the pursuit of security excellence, we must adopt the latest professional skills and technology available which, in conjunction with well-trained and motivated security professionals, can help protect the industry from increasing sophisticated threats to the maritime infrastructure and facilities,” he said.

Abaya said the outcome of this endeavor will enhance the enforcement security of shipping and port operators to enroll in the security program, thus eventually complying with the maritime security standards prescribed by IMO. (Elias O. Baquero, Sun Star)

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cebu/local-news/2014/11/04/moa-signed-empowering-4-port-authorities-require-security-compliance-3747

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Tourism expo geared to spark inclusive NorthPhil development

An expo slated at the SM City Clark on November 14-16 is being promoted for international and local tourism and infrastructure investments that are seen to bring about widespread development in North Philippines (NorthPhil).

Spotlighted are the region’s coast-to-coast infrastructure development potential for trade and tourism spanning the shores along the West Philippine Sea and the eastern seaboard facing the Pacific and the thin strip of mainland Luzon, particularly its waistline between Lingayen Gulf and Baler Bay, both with seaports, and benefiting all socioeconomic sectors regionwide.

Further up north in La Union alone are the seaport and international airport in San Fernando, and down south in Subic are similar facilities linked to Clark in Pampanga, all connected by arterial roads like NLEX and SCTEX that branch out to various parts of North Philippines and its mall of tourism attractions, many are yet to be discovered and developed.

“Such are the potential investment destinations that the ongoing promotion of the NorthPhil (North Philippines) Expo is incidentally highlighting, thus making it cover both sides of the demand and supply chain at both ends of the market spectrum,” said Central Luzon Director Ronnie P. Tiotuico of the Department of Tourism (DOT).

“In effect, the DOT finds itself pushing both product development and promotion with a single masterstroke through the NorthPhil Expo, which is seen to leapfrog tourism growth in the North at double-digit rates,” Tiotuico added, hinting at combined foreign and domestic visitor arrivals of up to three million or so in less than a couple of years with Clark’s impending development into a premier international airport of world-class caliber.

Domestic visitor arrivals in Central Luzon alone have already reached a total of two million in 2012 based on statistics from commercial establishments in the region’s seven provinces and two Freeport zones (Clark and Subic).

Most of the arrivals were attributed to the Clark International Airport and its fast growing number of passengers at 60,000 monthly and still counting. (Manila Bulletin via Yahoo Philippine News)

https://ph.news.yahoo.com/tourism-expo-geared-spark-inclusive-northphil-development-165957120.html

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PPA assigns specific berths for vessels calling at Manila ports

Vessels calling at the ports of Manila will be temporarily assigned to specific berths to maximize port utilization this month, according to the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA).

In a memorandum circular (MC) dated November 3, 2014, PPA General Manager Juan Sta. Ana informed terminal operators in the Manila about the temporary arrangement in the assignment of berths for vessels calling at the port of Manila.

“All ad hoc vessels calling at the Port of Manila including those presently on queue shall be berthed at South Harbor or Subic Bay Freeport. Meanwhile, A dual-caller vessel shall be directed by PPA to berth at South Harbor or at the Manila International Container Terminal upon its arrival at pilot boarding station,” Sta. Ana said.

According to the MC, ad hoc vessels refer to vessels designated or arranged to call at the port of Manila for a specific purpose and not on a regular basis whole a dual-caller vessel refers to a vessel whose ports of loading or unloading are both South Harbor and MICT.

The temporary arrangement in the assignment of berths will be valid until November 30 and will coincide with the shipping peak season due to the yearend holidays.

“This measure will reduce the number of vessels waiting at anchorage. It will also prevent double calls of vessels because instead of calling at two ports, operators will only call now at only one port,” the PPA said, explaining the consequence of the MC.

Despite the lifting of the Manila Truck ban, yard utilization went up from 80 to 90 percent as of October 31 due to the recent holiday, according to PPA. However, empty yard utilization declined from 90 to 70 percent.

The Cabinet Cluster on Port Congestion is targeting to reach the 80 percent yard utilization level for the ports of Manila. This translates to approximately 64,800 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) inside the ports to have enough room for optimum terminal efficiency and productivity. (Kris Bayos, Manila Bulletin)

PHOTO: A container ship docks at the New Container Terminal of the Subic Bay Freeport, now assigned as a port extension of Manila.

http://www.mb.com.ph/ppa-assigns-specific-berths-for-vessels-calling-at-manila-ports/

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Cancelled port calls won’t affect US-Phl defense ties

Armed Forces chief Gen. Gregorio Catapang Jr. assured the nation yesterday the cancelled port calls of US warships to Subic Bay would not affect the defense ties between the Philippines and the US.

Speaking to reporters in Camp Aguinaldo, Catapang said no joint activities would be discontinued.

“Even if there’s a problem or something like that, we will continue with our military exercises with our US counterparts,” he said.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said yesterday the US has cancelled the visit of three warships to Subic Bay this month for operational reasons.

Speaking to reporters, DFA spokesman Charles Jose said the cancellation is not related to the murder case against US Marine Private First Class Joseph Scott Pemberton.

“We don’t see the ongoing case to be a reason,” he said. “We were just informed about the cancellation.”

The three are part of nine US warships scheduled to dock in the former US naval this month and to remain until December.

Jose said the reconsideration of port visits is normal occurrence as US warships are deployed in many areas of the Pacific and subject to changing operational requirements.

“The DFA was informed through normal diplomatic channels of the cancellation of the visits to Subic of three US Navy ships for operational reasons,” he said.

Jose said the ships are not part of a joint military training in the Philippines.

“Usually the purpose of port calls is for repairs, for operational reasons,” he said. “We can say they are not related to joint exercises. The exercises are not related to port calls.” (Alexis Romero, Pia Lee-Brago, The Philippine Star)

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2014/11/04/1387867/cancelled-port-calls-wont-affect-us-phl-defense-ties

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British firm sets up shop in Subic

British firm David Brown Gear Systems is opening its first industrial gearbox services center in the Philippines.

The facility, located at the Global Gateway Industrial Park at the Subic Bay Freeport zone will deliver rapid industrial gearbox service, repair and upgrade to a number of key industries including mining, sugar processing, cement, and oil and gas.

David Brown's expertise is not restricted to a specific application or gearbox brand.

It can service and repair any gearbox, including those for industrial application.

It can also make prompt site service visits.

The center will open on Friday, November 7. (Malaya Business Insight)

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INAP members meet in Subic Freeport for greater cooperation

Regional port innovations for mutual opportunities and cooperation will be the main focus for members of the International Network of Affiliated Ports (INAP) when they meet at the Port of Subic for the 16th General Assembly and Symposium on November 11-13.

At this year's conference to be held at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC), representatives of each of the seven member-ports are expected to present and discuss current and future developments in their respective areas.

On the other hand, port-related topics will be discussed by invited speakers, such as Green Port Initiative by Luis Cuison, manager of the Port of Puerto Princesa; Port Security by Roland Recomono, administrator of the Office of Transport Security-DOTC; and Lessons on Coastal Disasters by Ryuichi Kuwajima of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

The conference will also pave way for Chairman Roberto Garcia of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), which manages the Port of Subic, to officially accept the INAP chairmanship for 2014, replacing Governor Masanao Ozaki of the Kochi Prefecture Government in Japan.

“We are honored to accept the chairmanship of INAP and host this very important conference of heads of ports in the region for the third time,” Garcia said.

He noted that Subic is all ready to host the three-day activity that is expected to fortify cooperation among member ports to promote competitiveness and productivity.

INAP was formed in 1998 with the primary objective of enhancing the port network, integrating individual affiliates, exchanging information on port development, and strengthening economic and cultural relationships.

Upon entering INAP, new members are required to establish a sister-port or -city relationship with any of the members.

At this year's conference, a total of 83 delegates from all member ports will be arriving in Subic for the three-day assembly, with the Port of Kochi (Japan) sending the biggest delegation.

Other member-ports include Port of Colombo, Sri Lanka; Mokpo New Port, South Korea; Port of Tanjung Perak, Indonesia; Port of Qingdao, China, and the Port of Subic and Port of Cebu in the Philippines.

The newest entry to the INAP roster, the Port of Dangjin in South Korean, will officially be accepted as the eighth member during the assembly and make its own presentation. The mayor of Dangjin City is expected to head the delegation to Subic.

During the assembly, officials from the Port of Subic will also have the opportunity to promote the area as an investment destination during the scheduled two break-out business sessions with the Port of Mokpo and the Port of Kochi. SBMA officials said this would be a milestone for the Port of Subic.

While in Subic, delegates and representatives will be treated by the SBMA to a tour of the Freeport, a welcome dinner at the Light House Marina Resort, and a farewell dinner at the Subic Bay Yacht Club. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)

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PH primed as MRO, interior parts hubs in Asia

The Philippines, currently a hub for maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) of aircraft manufacturers in Asia, is being primed also as a hub for parts and components of aircraft interior, the Aerospace Industries Association of the Philippines (AIAP) said.

AIAP also seeks to develop Clark and Subic as sites for MRO.

Currently, there are Filipinos working in MRO in Singapore and in Malaysia and AIAP wants to bring back these workers.

According to AIAP, Clark and Subic have huge potential. Clark has a good land area and length of runway. Companies that would like to manufacture and export parts can also use Subic as a platform for manufacture and export.

AIAP also cited the good infrastructure of Subic ideal for investments in the supply chain.

John Lee, president of AIAP, said the industry eyes to be one of the hubs for the interiors market in Asia. Other countries have set up base productions such as Singapore for engines.

“It might be good to entice other aircraft interiors suppliers, galleys, bathroom, plastic bins. We have to look at a niche market wherein we can contribute in terms of support group. In aerospace, players have to be very competent,” Lee added.

Suppliers have to go through a very strict accreditation process which could take about two years.

Lee said MOOG Controls Corp., which has been making precision controls, has been in the Philippines for quite some time and a lot of suppliers are already providing for the industry even before.

“Players have found a good market for this so they have expanded their production in terms of capacity building for aerospace,” Lee added.

He cited that like the Japanese automotive industry, aerospace players bring in their supply group. But MRO, he said, will always be part of the market as demand for airplanes in Asia is the highest in the world, which means more maintenance and repair.

German-Filipino firm Lufthansa Technik operates a competence center for the maintenance and overhaul of Airbus A319, A320, A321, A330-200/-300, A340-200/-300/-600 and the A380 in the Philippines.

SIA Engineering (Philippines) Corp. maintains a state-of-the-art MRO facility in Clark for aircraft certification and scheduled heavy maintenance checks, airframe structural inspections, repairs, modifications, paint-stripping, painting of aircraft exteriors and Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) checks for narrow-body aircraft such as A320 and wide-body aircraft such as A330 and B777.

Flag carrier Philippine Airlines also has its own repair facilities in the country.

The three key players in aerospace manufacturing include MOOG Control Corp., B/E Aerospace and Jamco Aerospace, Inc. (Irma Isip, Malaya Business Insight)

http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/business/ph-primed-mro-interior-parts-hubs-asia

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3 US ships canceled port calls to Subic due to ‘operational reasons’

MANILA, Philippines – The cancelation of port calls of United States (US) ships in Subic are due to “changing operational requirements” and are not related to the case of the Filipino transgender woman who was allegedly slayed by a US Marine.

“The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) was informed through normal diplomatic channels on the cancelation of three US ships for operational reasons,” DFA Spokesman Assistant Secretary Charles Jose said in a press briefing Monday.

“Usually the purpose of port calls is for repair, and operational reasons. We can say that they are not related to the joint military exercises, they are not related at all,” he said.

The Subic Bay Freeport Chamber of Commerce (SBFCC) released a statement Sunday saying that nine US ships have cancelled port calls which disappointed them because of the revenues they could have earned.

DFA confirmed only the cancelation of three ships that are said to be scheduled to arrive within November, but have no information on the status of the remaining six.

Negative sentiments against the US have poured out following the murder of Filipino transgender woman Jeffrey “Jennifer” Laude allegedly by US Marine Pfc Joseph Scott Pemberton in a motel in Olongapo city last October 11, 2014. (Matikas Santos, Inquirer.net)

Read more: http://globalnation.inquirer.net/113857/3-us-ships-canceled-port-calls-to-subic-due-to-operational-reasons/#ixzz3HzWij3k9

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Marine Mammal Stranding Network holds 2nd nat'l symposium

The Philippine Marine Mammal Stranding Network, Inc. (PMMSN) recently conducted its 2nd national symposium at the Camayan Beach Resort and Hotel here with a theme “Empowerment of members by promoting best practices in stranding response, research and repository".

The conference was attended by 70 participants from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), Local Government Units, media practitioners and private sector nationwide.

According to Lemnuel V. Aragones, president of PMMSN, the convention is a great platform to empower the members by educating one another through sharing of knowledge, best practices and experiences and imbibing a participatory process to building consensus.

"We are pushing for more support on efforts towards the major aspects of our network particularly on stranding response, information education and communication, governmental and policy issues and research and collaboration," Aragones said.

Meanwhile, Atty. Asis G. Perez, BFAR director, said the seminar is timely and relevant in giving more complete information on the stranding response technicians in making good judgment on the conservation of marine mammals in the Philippines.

He also stressed the need to educate the public and, particularly coastal inhabitants, on the importance of marine mammal conservation because "an empty stomach knows no law".

Likewise, Gail Laule of Ocean Adventure and vice president of PMMSN said that by giving environmental education to people, we will have greater chances of changing public attitudes and ultimately garner public support to avert marine mammal stranding.

"It is our responsibility to raise public awareness on the importance of marine mammals and to motivate individuals and communities to respect, protect and conserve our marine resources," she added.

"We already have formal Memorandum of Agreement with BFAR Regional Offices 1, 2, 5,8, 11 and 13 and hope to get all the other regions on this as the MOA binds all of our goals and aspirations," Aragones added. (ALM/SRA/PIA2)

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1841414888396/marine-mammal-stranding-network-holds-2nd-nat-l-symposium

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9 US ships cancel port calls to Subic

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT, Philippines—Nine US Navy ships scheduled to arrive here this month until December have decided to cancel their port calls due to “anti-American sentiments” in the country after a US Marine was implicated in the slaying of a Filipino transgender in Olongapo City last month, a group of business owners said.

The Subic Bay Freeport Chamber of Commerce (SBFCC) said the cancellation disappointed local businessmen, who had been preparing for the “liberty” (rest and recreation) of American troops.

“This anticipated visit could have meant a better Christmas for the business owners and their employees…. But after the cancellation, one can only imagine the disappointed faces,” the SBFCC said in a statement sent to the Inquirer on Sunday.

The US Embassy and the Department of Foreign Affairs on Sunday night couldn’t immediately confirm the cancellation of the port calls by the nine US Navy ships in Subic.

Kurt Hoyer, US Embassy first secretary and press attaché, told the Inquirer that he still had to check the information.

In a separate phone interview, DFA spokesman and Assistant Secretary Charles Jose also said he had to verify whether the department had information about the cancellation of the port calls.

However, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority chair Roberto Garcia confirmed the cancellation of the port calls.

Citing a report from Global Terminals and Development Inc., which operates ports here and provides service to US Navy ships, Garcia on Sunday said four ships were supposed to visit this free port this month while five were expected in December.

Garcia said the port visits were “put on hold until further notice.”

But he said two US Navy ships—USS Pecos and USNS Mary Sears—were scheduled to arrive here next week for emergency repairs.

The SBFCC said the death of transgender Jeffrey “Jennifer” Laude not only caused a social and political impact, “but an economic chain reaction as well.”

Laude was found dead in a motel in Olongapo City on the night of Oct. 11, a few minutes after her American companion left.

Her companion, who was later identified by witnesses as US Marine Pfc. Joseph Scott Pemberton, is facing a murder complaint filed by Laude’s family in the Olongapo Prosecutor’s Office.

Pemberton is held in a detention facility jointly managed by the American and Philippine governments at the Armed Forces of the Philippines headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

The SBFCC said it sympathized with the Laude family and had joined calls that justice be served.

But Laude’s death, it said, brought about losses and unrealized income for many establishments in the Subic Bay area.

“On the other side of things, businesses in the city and in the bay [area] are also restless. But more than being twitchy, these businesses are suffering,” the statement said.

It said businessmen here found it unfair that there was an impression that people in this free port and nearby Olongapo City were not receptive to visits by US troops.

“We also want the US Navy to know that they are still welcome to visit Subic Bay and enjoy the culture and beauty of our natural flora and fauna, and the festivities that we offer,” the SBFCC said. (Allan Macatuno, Inquirer Central Luzon, with a report from Christine O. Avendaño in Manila)

PHOTO:
In this Oct. 17, 2014, photo, a US marine walks inside the USS Peleliu, where US Marine Pfc. Joseph Scott Pemberton was said to be detained after allegedly killing Filipino transgender Jeffrey “Jennifer” Laude at the Subic Bay free port, Zambales province. Nine US Navy ships scheduled to arrive in Subic in November until December have decided to cancel their port calls due to “anti-American sentiments” in the country after Pemberton was implicated in the slaying of Laude, a group of business owners said. (AP PHOTO/AARON FAVILA)


Read more: http://globalnation.inquirer.net/113820/9-us-ships-cancel-port-calls-to-subic/#ixzz3Hy54wZRQ

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P5M smuggle try foiled in Subic port

The Bureau of Customs commended an officer and men of the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) in the Port of Subic for foiling a smuggle try of some P5-million worth of imported items out of the Subic Freeport.

Commended last Monday were Manolo Arevalo, OIC-Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS-ID) and operatives Intelligence Agent Teodorico Tobias and Special Agents Reycristo Ruanto, Jr. and Ruperto Sulit, Jr.

BoC District Collector Port of Subic Gen. Arnulfo Marcos (Ret.) said Arevalo and his men seized imported 7,200 cartons of ceramic tiles which arrived in Subic in a 20-footer container van consigned to Tough Sapphire Enterprises in Biñan, Laguna.

The shipment with estimated market value of P3-million was covered with false declaration executed by the consignee.

Earlier, Marcos ordered the seizure of a 40-footer container packed with disassembled aircraft, one rubber boat and a Lycoming 0-320 engine which is consigned to Centurion Import Services located at the 2/F of Philcox Hangar, General Aviation Area, MDA, Pasay City.

Accordingly, the consignee used fake invoice to undervalue the shipment to P2-million. The shipment was turned over to Auction and Cargo Disposal Unit of BoC while investigation is still in the process of determining what to do with the shipment.

In a separate incident, the Bureau’s Enforcement and Security Service (Port of Subic) led by its chief Lt. Paul Oandasan, confiscated a shipment of Bavaria Premium Beer worth P2.8-million in Olongapo City after it was smuggled out of Subic Freeport without paying correct tariff duties and taxes. (Ruben A Veloria, People's Journal)

http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php/news/provincial/p5m-smuggle-try-foiled-in-subic-port

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