US backs Luzon Economic Corridor, hikes funding for Subic-Clark-Manila-Batangas railway study

MANILA – The United States has reinforced its commitment to the Philippines’ infrastructure modernization efforts by continuing the support and raising funding for the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC) despite the Trump administration halting some US government financing programs in different countries. 

Office Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs (OSAPIEA) Secretary Frederick Go said in a statement on Sunday that the US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) has increased its grant funding for the pre-feasibility study of the Subic-Clark-Manila-Batangas (SCMB) Cargo Railway from USD2.5 million (PHP138.8 million) to USD3.8 million. 

Go said the expanded grant was conveyed to the Philippine government on April 28, following a competitive process for the selection of a US consultancy firm. 

The OSAPIEA, Department of Transportation, and the US Embassy in Manila are scheduled to meet in the next few days to finalize and sign the Beneficiary Agreement for the SCMB project. 

“(This is a) great positive news,” the Palace official said. “This milestone demonstrates that the Philippines-US economic ties are stronger than ever.” 

He added that the increased USTDA grant for the SCMB study reflects growing investor confidence and is expected to lead to more employment opportunities along the corridor. 

Despite the scaling back of some US foreign aid programs, the recent funding increase underscores Washington’s continued support for the Philippines’ development priorities, particularly in infrastructure and economic connectivity. 

In addition to the US funding, discussions are ongoing with Sweden’s development financier Swedfund, which is considering a separate USD1.2-million grant to complement the railway initiative. 

The SCMB freight rail is the LEC's flagship project. It seeks to link key industrial and trade zones in Subic Bay, Clark, Manila, and Batangas provinces. 

Once operational, the freight rail system is expected to improve logistics operations, reduce transport costs, and enhance regional competitiveness while creating jobs for thousands of Filipinos. 

The LEC is an offshoot of the trilateral meeting of the Philippines, the US and Japan in April 2024. 

 

Go earlier said the United Kingdom, Sweden and Australia signified their intents to join the LEC.

France’s Minister Delegate for Foreign Trade and French Nationals Abroad Laurent Saint-Martin, who visited Manila last month, conveyed to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. the European country’s interest to also join the project. (PNA)

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SBMA to hold Labor Day jobs fair with 2,300 job opportunities

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) will hold a jobs fair in time for its Labor Day celebration at the Harbor Point Ayala Mall here, with more than 2,300 job opportunities available to job-seekers on May 1, 2025.

 

Labor Center Department Manager Atty. Melvin Varias disclosed that around 45 companies in and around the Subic Bay Freeport Zone will participate in the said jobs fair.

 

Varias added that aside from the jobs fair, a 3-kilometer Fun Run will jumpstart the Labor Day activities. There will also be the Relax Enjoy Siesta Timeout (REST) Free Massage, and the Sulong SBMA Singing Competition, which will all be held at the Harbor Point Ayala Mall’s Activity Center. 

 

“Last year, 26 job seekers were hired on-the-spot. Of the 26 hired, 21 applicants were hired by Da Tian Subic Shoes Inc., manufacturer of popular shoe brands here. While two of them were hired by YZ Consultancy Services Incorporated, and the other three were hired by Coffee & Tea Connection,” Varias said.

 

“We hope that we can fill the number of vacant positions to ensure that the companies in need of workers would operate smoothly. The high demand of our locators’ products has resulted in the need for higher production, hence, the higher demand for employment,” he added. (MPD-SBMA) 

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SBMA’s Passport on Wheels project yields 92 processed passports

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority’s (SBMA) Passport on Wheels (POW) project at the Harbor Point Ayala Mall on April 29, 2025, was able to process 92 passports in record time of 4 hours. 

SBMA Human Resource and Management Department (HRMD) Manager Vivian Abalos shared that the successful processing of the 92 passports was just a portion of the total 200 passport applications since the other 108 that were supposed to be processed did not materialize due to incomplete documents and payments.

  

Abalos extended her gratitude to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), and Harbor Point Ayala Mall for their cooperation in the said corporate social responsibility (CSR) project of the agency.

The SBMA has been conducting the POW project even before the pandemic, and it has helped stakeholders within and around the Subic Bay Freeport Zone (SBFZ) in conveniently processing their passport applications and renewals. 

 

Meanwhile, SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño explained that the SBMA does not issue passports, but rather, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). He said that this project is a part of the agency’s CSR program in collaboration with the DFA.

 

“This project aims to provide convenient access to passport services for individuals within the Subic Bay area. The SBMA brings passport application and processing services directly to Subic Bay Freeport to extend convenience to SBF residents, employees, and their dependents,” he added. (MPD-SBMA)

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Subic Bay Freeport exceeds 400,000-mark in Holy Week tourist arrivals

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) reported a record high of 408,800 tourist arrivals during the Holy Week Celebration in this premier Freeport.

 

The SBMA Tourism Department gladly shared that this figure exceeded last year’s 367,228 visitors by 54,384, roughly an increase of 14.8 percent.

 

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño said that the data has significantly contributed to the hotel occupancy rate, which has remained at 99 percent.

 

San Roque Chapel, one of the oldest chapels in the country, has become a favorite crowd-drawer for devout Catholics who visit frequently during the Holy Week, as it drew an estimated crowd of 10,350.

 

“San Roque Chapel has been a quiet refuge for devout Catholics who spend their vacations here. We are glad that Catholic traditions such as processions, the pabasa, and Salubong are religiously conducted there,” Aliño mused.

 

The recorded numbers in tourist arrivals surpassed last year’s number of Catholic devotees who flocked to the chapel during Holy Week by 5,538, with 2024’s number recorded at 4,812.

 

SBMA Tourism Department manager Mary Jamelle Camba said that the presence of the Food Fest this year contributed largely to the surge of visitors at the Boardwalk area.

 

“The Food Fest offered better activities, food options, and entertainment. These changes in crowd count may suggest that visitors had different preferences for their activities during the week,” Camba shared.

 

Data from all Information Centers revealed a decrease in the "total number of inquiries and estimated total number of crowd". Results yielded from these reports may have been positively affected by the effectiveness of either digital access to information or improved area navigation, since only 97 inquiries this year were recorded compared to last year’s 108 inquiries.

 

Vehicular accidents also decreased, with only three incidents this year compared to last year’s four.  Meanwhile, ambulance runs increased by five due to the high heat index. (MPD-SBMA)

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SBMA holds week-long 16th Recyclables Collection Event in celebration of Earth Day 2025

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) is holding the 16th Recyclables Collection Event (RCE) from April 21 to 25, 2025, in celebration of this year's Earth Day.

 

This year’s theme, “Our Power, Our Planet,” is highlighted by the Communication Education and Public Awareness (CEPA) caravan, which aims to empower stakeholders.

 The caravan happens on April 22 and 24 at the Function Hall B of the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC), and will also feature the Health and Environment discussion led by PCOM-Olongapo virtually via Google Meet. 

 

“As for the main event, the 16th Recyclables Collection Event, will be held at the Mini Golf Course area of the Subic Bay Freeport, where stakeholders can bring hazardous waste materials and recyclable materials to ensure their proper disposal,” SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño said.

 

Also in line with the 16^th RCE, sustainable products and technology exhibit, including the UBC Awareness and Collection Program led by GNS/ Tetra Pak Philippines, Bamboonihan and Green Foot Carbon Calculator by Banco Kalikasan, Wastewater/ Grease waste management by Soliman EcoWaste Management Corp., and PBC Waste Management by Innogy Solutions Inc., happens at the Promenade A of the Harbor Point Ayala Mall from April 21-23. 

 

The 16^th RCE will have the Refill Revolution for a Cause at the Harbor Point Ayala Mall on April 21 and 23, and at the Ecology Center on April 24 and 25. 

 

“Our goal here is to reduce plastic pollution by reducing waste from single-use plastics. The proceeds from the donated recyclable materials collected will be doled out to the employees of Omniworx, the company tasked to clean and maintain SBMA buildings all over the Subic Bay Freeport,” Aliño said.

 

He reiterated that these employees are “our partners in the segregation of wastes at source. They ensure that recyclables are properly segregated and turned over during the bi-annual RCE for proper disposal through our waste haulers.” 

 

Other activities include the Earth Day 2025 Community Cleanup, which will be held all over the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, and the Trash for Rice, a social development program of the Subic Bay Freeport Electronics Recycling Association.

 

Earth Day 2025 is the Subic Bay Freeport Zone’s step towards its goal in the Race to Carbon Neutrality, making this premier Freeport into a carbon-neutral zone in the future,” Aliño said. (MPD-SBMA)

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SBMA, Subic Grain Terminal test safety response operations in simulation exercises

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority and Subic Bay Freeport Grain Terminal Services Incorporated (SBFGTSI) conducted a simulation exercise (SimEx) at the latter’s premises inside this premier Freeport on April 4, 2025.

 

According to SBMA Seaport Department SimEx Director Diego P. Aviles, the activity dubbed “Responding to Active Shooter and Barricaded Scenario” was conducted to test procedures and contingency plans for security and safety response operations of both the SBMA and SBFGTSI.

 

“This exercise offers a unique opportunity for all participants to carry out response operations. Our objective is to test the security communication protocol in response to an active shooter and barricaded incident,” Aviles said.

 

He added that the SimEx also aims to assess coordination between security personnel and Emergency Response Units of SBFGTSI and the Law Enforcement Department (LED), and to evaluate the effectiveness and readiness of handling such emergencies following the Port Facility Security Plan.

 

Part of the exercise was conducted to test the response capabilities of the SBMA Seaport Department, and the LED, specifically the Special Weapons and Tactics team, Traffic Branch, and K-9 Unit, as well as the Public Health and Safety Department in terms of emergency response.

 

Aviles, along with SBFGTSI Terminal Manager Engr. Carlito Faustino and SBFGTSI port facility safety officer Gilbert Espiel, reiterated that this exercise offers a unique opportunity for all participants to carry out response operations and to test procedures and contingency plans on security, safety, and any emergency response operations.

 

“This exercise would not have been made possible without the collaboration between the SBFGTSI and SBMA,” Aviles said. (MPD-SBMA)

 

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SBMA, PPSA eye partnership to train future Fire Marshalls

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), through its Fire Department, and the Philippine Public Safety Academy (PPSA) are set to sign a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to train the latter’s cadets for a future career in firefighting. 

 

SBMA Fire Chief Ranny Magno revealed this plan during the graduation ceremony for the Fire Cadets of PPSA Class of 2025 who have completed the comprehensive Advanced Firefighting Training from March 24 to 28, 2025. 

 

“I do hope that for the next batch of cadets, the SBMA and PPSA will already have a formal agreement so that this kind of training can be done on a regular basis,” Magno added.

 

Recently, 37 cadets of the "Madayawlahi” Class of 2025, the second batch of PPSA students, underwent a week-long intensive firefighting training, including Fire Suppression and Control, Tactics, and Strategies, where the cadets were able to experience firefighting via simulated exercises. This specialized training also provided them with hands-on experience with modern firefighting equipment, tools, and tactical scenarios.

 

PPSA Commandant of Cadets Mark Anthony S. Saquing expressed his appreciation to the personnel of the SBMA Fire Department for actively playing a vital role in implementing the program with them.

 

He also thanked Fire Chief Magno, who was also the Course Director, as well as his training team composed of Deputy Fire Chief Edwin Santos, John Patrick Ablaza., Alvin Laconsay and Romano Custodio for mentoring their cadets.

 

Saguing said that the training provided a deeper understanding of fireground tactics, the science behind fire behavior, and the leadership required to protect communities in high-stakes emergencies, which are essential qualities for public safety officers.

 

“The fires that you battle are not just those that burn in buildings, but also the challenges that will test your character, endurance, and willpower. Through this training, you have gained not only the knowledge and skills but also the spirit of a true firefighter, one who never gives up, never backs down, and always stands firm in the face of adversity,” Saquing addressed his cadets.

 

PPSA was created under DILG Circular No. 2022-009, otherwise known as the “Creation and Operationalization of Philippine Public Safety Academy pursuant to Republic Act 11279.” It offers graduate degree courses for personnel of the BFP and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), namely, Bachelor of Science in Fire Protection Administration, and Bachelor of Science in Penology and Corrections Administration. (MPD-SBMA) 

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SBMA chair Aliño highlights Subic Bay’s Green Port vision in his 1st SOFA

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño disclosed the agency's new vision to transform Subic Bay into a Green Port City and a key player in the regional cruise industry. 

The SBMA chief made this revelation during his first State of the Freeport Address (SOFA) at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC), while sharing his accomplishments during the past year.

Aliño delivered the 17th SOFA before members and the board of directors of the Subic Bay Freeport Chamber of Commerce (SBFCC), officials from the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), SBMA Directors, LGU officials, and other stakeholders, in line with the celebration of the 30th anniversary of the SBFCC. 

In his address, Aliño revealed that the SBMA is positioning the SBF as a leader in sustainable port operations, highlighting the shore power system initiative that will reduce air pollution by 95%.

 

“Our growth to be the green port city, driven by collaborative growth in business and investment, channels a new dimension to pursue our mandate. But this channel is not just the SBMA's vision and mission; we will need your help, your partnership, and your commitment,” Alino stated.

To support this vision, the SBMA is set to construct a dedicated cruise terminal within the next few years, further enhance its port facilities, and expand its international network through sister port agreements with the Port of San Diego in California, Osaka Port in Japan, and other key locations.

 

He highlighted the SBMA’s success in regaining investors that led to a surge in infrastructure investments, economic activities, and a plan to develop Subic Bay into a major regional cruise hub and stopover for cruise ships both as a home port and turnaround hub.

 

Technological advancements to improve port navigation and security were also introduced with the installation of the country's most advanced Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS), which enhances real-time vessel monitoring and ensures safer, more efficient port operations.

 

Aliño also cited the SBMA’s ongoing efforts to integrate sustainability into its development plans, ensuring that growth does not come at the expense of the country's natural environment.

 

He then outlined a series of projects aimed at boosting the Freeport’s position as a leading investment destination, including the development of new industrial parks, expansion of digital infrastructure to support the growing tech sector, and the establishment of Subic Bay as a hub for sustainable and green industries.

 

Key accomplishments of the past year were reported, underscoring the SBMA's dividend contribution to the national coffers, which landed the agency in the top seven.

 

“Aside from the dividends that we contribute to the national government, neighboring communities also get their share of revenues derived from corporate taxes. So I would like to thank our locators for paying their taxes because as you can see, here, your taxes go a long way, especially in funding infrastructure projects in road rehabilitation and other development projects for our communities,” Alino said.

 

He also discussed the expansion projects of two locators, namely, Sanyo Denki and Nidec, that are poised to generate a total of 6,500 jobs.  Employment generation is a primary mandate of the agency that is anchored on the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) for 2023-2028 of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration, to strengthen and build a good community here in Subic Bay by improving the quality of life of its stakeholders.

 

“We hope that the plans and programs we have shared with you pave the way toward even closer cooperation among us.  Because in Subic, we care...for our shared future, and our shared aspiration of growth and progress for all,” he added. (SNL)

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SBMA, SubicWater sign 20-yr. franchise agreement anew

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and Subic Water and Sewerage Company Inc. (SubicWater) have extended their franchise agreement (FA) for another 20 years.

 

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño welcomed this development as their partnership with the agency has been harmonious since they started here.

 

The 3rd Amendment to the franchise agreement and the 4th Amendment to the SBMA-SubicWater Lease Agreement were signed yesterday at the SBMA Corporate Boardroom at Building 229, extending their FA term until March 31, 2047.

 

The agreements were signed by Chairman Aliño, SubicWater Chairman Engr. Apollo C. Tiglao, and witnessed by Olongapo City Mayor Rolen Paulino Jr. and SubicWater CEO and General Manager Benjamin Antonio III.

 

Chairman Tiglao said that under the amendment, “The SubicWater shall conduct its operation aiming to achieve 100 percent wastewater coverage including combined sewerage and sanitation services for Subic Bay Freeport and Olongapo City.”

 

He also said that this endeavor would be more beneficial to SubicWater’s customers as Olongapo City will now have wastewater services and sewer lines.

 

Additionally, SubicWater can now expand its services to far-flung areas of Subic Freeport such as Redondo Peninsula and Tipo area as a result of the amendment.

 

Meanwhile, Mayor Paulino also expressed his gratitude to the SBMA and SubicWater for the continued services of the water company. “We wanted SubicWater to expand their services, we have been clamoring for the wastewater coverage in Olongapo City,” he added.

 

“We really appreciate that we are involved in the process. Special thanks to SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator Atty. Ramon Agregado for advocating for the benefit of Olongapo City and all other constituents,” he added. (MPD-SBMA)

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NBI, SBMA joint ops lead to arrest of Chinese nationals allegedly involved in kidnapping, illegal POGO

A joint enforcement operation between the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), and the Naval Special Operations Group (NAVSOG) was conducted against Chinese nationals at the Grande Island here on March 19, 2025.

 

Led by NBI Director Judge Jaime Santiago, the operation resulted to the arrest of six foreign nationals and two Filipino nationals, including Chinese national Qiu Feng, whose real name is Ye Tianwu (also known as Qing Feng).

 

Ye Tianwu was arrested for violations under Republic Act 8799, or the Securities Regulation Code, and RA 10175, also known as the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.

 

Aside from Ye Tianwu, Philippine authorities also apprehended Xu Xining; Ye Xiaocan; Su Anlong; and He Peng; along with Cambodian Ang Deck/Dick; and Filipinos Melvin Mañosa Aguillon, Jr. and Jeffrey Espiridion, who are employees of Ang Deck/Dick. The authorities recovered mutiple cellphones and laptops, one caliber 9mm firearm, and 16 rounds of 9mm ammunition.

 

Meanwhile, SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño lauded the efforts of the inter-agency group led by Director Santiago to apprehend suspects, and assured that “Subic Bay Freeport is NOT a safe haven for lawbreakers.”

 

The arrest exposes the unlawful nature, including suspected espionage and kidnapping activities related to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGO), for which some foreign nationals are using Grande Island under the guise of private enterprises. Such activities, which may be part of larger criminal network operations, pose a serious threat to our national security.

 

The Department of National Defense (DND) confirmed the report, citing that the DENR looks forward to working with the concerned agencies, including the SBMA, in exploring the possibility of declaring Grande Island, along with nearby Chiquita Island, as military reservations.

 

“This will ultimately help secure the operations of the Subic Special Economic Zone including the Riviera Wharf and the Subic Bay International Airport, in consonance with the ongoing development of the naval operating base of the Philippine Navy to strengthen and maintain our strategic presence along our western seaboard.” (MPD-SBMA)

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P1.1B dormitory complex to open in Subic Freeport

 A P1.1-billion dormitory complex is set to be constructed soon to become the site for a "home away from home" for some 6,000 employees working here. 

 

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño on March 19, 2025 led the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of a five-storey building.

 

"This is why I cannot hide how overjoyed I am today,"  SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño said about the realization of his dreams for SBF workers. 

 

The chairman was elated over the start of the realization of his dream of providing housing facilities to the workers of this premier Freeport. 

 

“To me, this is the first step towards the realization of a strong, comfortable and peaceful way of life for our Freeport workers, the same as the dream of our dear President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for every Filipino in the country,” he added.

 

“In fact, this dormitory project is in response to the President’s instructions in connection with his Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino, or 4PH program,” he continued.

 

Isuzu Gencars Inc. General Manager Edgard Cabangon said that the collaboration between his company, the SBMA, and RDBT Construction Corporation has identified several worker dormitories as priority projects that recognize the need for affordable, accessible, and decent housing within the Freeport.

 

He said that by building these dormitories close to factories, industrial areas, and technoparks, it not only improves the workers' efficiency, but also helps companies and employees reduce the cost of living.

He also cited that this initiative will also ease traffic congestion by reducing the number of vehicles and commuters on the road, contributing to a greener and more sustainable environment. 

 

According to Cabangon, this proposal is the first of its kind in the Freeport zone, which offers large-scale accommodations catering to workers, employees, and even students of nearby schools and colleges. 

 

RDBT Construction Corporation will be constructing the five buildings, which includes four dormitory blocks and an administrative building, all of which are rising at five storeys, on a one-hectare parcel of land. 

Architect Rafael Demacio Tecson, RDBT Construction Corp. CEO said that each dormitory block will have 188 units, with an approximate bed capacity of 1,500, which is 6,000 beds in total. 

 

Tecson said that the common areas will be designed to allow natural ventilation, which is key for the green structure development. This does not only improve indoor air quality, but also promotes the health and well-being of everyone using the space. 

 

Each dormitory is designed for eight occupants, shared by four people at a time. The layout shows smooth traffic flow, allowing residents to take turns using the shared bath, toilet and lavatories without overcrowding.

 

The ground floor will be used as commercial spaces including laundry services, 24/7 convenience store, a cafeteria, coffee shops, and restaurants, providing essential services for the workers throughout their stay. 

 

SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator for Business and Investment Group Renato Lee III said that the dormitory complex is a testament of both investor confidence in the SBMA and our readiness for the influx of jobs in the zone. 

“We are very optimistic in the investment attractiveness of the country because of the benefits of CREATE MORE or RA 12066, the government's efficiency and accountability brought about by the strict implementation of the EASE of Doing Business Act or RA 11032 and the overall reduction in the cost of doing business here in the Philippines,” Lee said.

 

“I have no doubt that we will be able to generate more investments in the coming years. When you generate investments, you generate jobs. But what is crucial here is not just Subic Freeport being investment-ready, but employment-ready as well,” he added.

 

Lee added that it is where the project plays a crucial role in the overall direction of the SBMA by making sure that the Freeport workers are also taken care of. (MPD-SBMA)

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91 Cagayan Valley students troop to SBF for Fire Dept educ’l tour

Some 91 students from the University of Cagayan Valley (UCV) visited the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA)-Fire Department (FD) as part of their educational tour last March 5 and 12, 2025.

 

SBMA Fire Chief Ranny D. Magno states, "This group of UCV Criminology interns is the second batch of learners. The first batch was here last March 5. The educational tour is part of the Open Fire House Program for the 2025 Fire Prevention Month." 

 

“We chose to practice fire safety in the family and the community. The theme is for us to be aware of fire safety”, he added.

 

Fire Officer Kevin Cerezo provided a briefer on the importance of fire prevention month. Meanwhile, Magno, who supervised the activity, gave a lecture on fire prevention and protection.

 

During the demonstration, four participants experienced wearing firefighting equipment which consisted of bunker gear, boots, helmets, gloves, masks, and breathing apparatus.

 

To break the ice and add a little hype to the tour, the official mascot of the SBMA Fire Department, Sparky, challenged two female participants wearing firefighting equipment to a dance contest.

 

The students shared their appreciation from the learnings and new experiences they received, adding that their respect for firefighters and the sacrifices they make further heightened their admiration for the profession.  They also cited the nobility of being a firefighter owing to the life-threatening risks that are entailed each time they respond to a fire call.

 

Jermaine Flores, a UCV instructor, commended the SBMA Fire Department as a perfect training venue for fire prevention and protection for succeeding UCV on-the-job training students.

The SBMA Fire Department is the key firefighting and emergency response force within the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.  It is popular for its quick response time and commitment to fire prevention, rescue operations, and customer service. (MPD-SBMA)

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SBMA, Taipei BioInnovation Park partnership eyed

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) is looking into entering into a joint venture with the Taipei BioInnovation Park (TBIP).

 

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño was impressed with the TBIP’s biotechnology and biomedical facilities in his recent trip to Taipei, Taiwan.

 

“This visit to the Taipei BioInnovation Park was a truly unique learning experience. We proposed the expansion of SBDMC (Subic Bay Development and Management Corporation, Inc.) business activities in Subic Bay Freeport to include biotechnology and biomedical activities,” said Chairman Aliño.

 

The SBMA chief cited that the proposed expansion project is aligned with the agency’s plans and programs.

 

“The proposed expansion plan should complement our mandate to promote the Subic Special Economic Zone as a self-sustaining, industrial, commercial, financial, and investment center and green port city by attracting and promoting productive foreign investments that will generate employment opportunities in and around the zone,” he said.

 

Chairman Aliño was joined by SBMA Directors Ruel John Kabigting and Teodoro Del Rosario, and Senior Deputy Administrator Ramon Agregado during his three-day visit to Taiwan, upon the invitation by Century Development Corporation (CDC).

 

The SBMA delegation also went to Pingtung to visit MOS Burger’s newly completed processing plant Pingtung Agricultural Biotechnology Park (PABP). The MOS Burger food processing plant is a joint venture between An-Shin Food Services Co. and MOS Food Services.

 

Located in Taiwan’s Pingtung County, the PABP is the only national agricultural biotechnology park in Taiwan and the only one in the world that has established an agricultural high-tech industrial cluster.

 

The park has more than 110 agricultural enterprises of value-added natural products, aquaculture, livestock biotechnology, agricultural materials and facilities, and technical services.

 

These companies are connected, forming a huge industrial supply chain that creates a strong synergy effect in the global market.

 

According to SBDMC President Willy Wang, the invitation for the site visit was to provide the SBMA with a glimpse of Taiwan’s first BOT development project focusing on biotechnology industry, and to explore joint venture opportunities.

 

He added that the TBIP provides incubation space for emerging biotechnology, leading companies that integrate research and development (R&D), trial production, and business office functions.

 

CDC is a shareholder of the United Development Corporation, a joint venture partner of the SBMA in the SBDMC, Inc., which has pioneered industrial park planning. It is also known for its successful development of the Nankang Software Park, one of the most advanced industrial parks in Taiwan. (MPD-SBMA)

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Neighboring LGUs around SBF receive ₱143M revenue shares

Neighboring local government units (LGUs) around this premier free port received their revenue share of ₱143 million from the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA).

 

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño explained that the revenue shares accorded to neighboring LGUs are given to seven municipalities and a city surrounding Subic Bay Freeport (SBF) to supplement their development funds in communities and enhance LGU projects in tourism, infrastructure, education, peace and order, health, and livelihood generation.

 

Aliño also shared that the amount is determined according to 50 percent population, 25 percent land area, and 25 percent equal sharing. 

 

Olongapo City received the significant chunk with ₱33.48 million as the most populated LGU, followed by Subic, Zambales at ₱21.48 million; Dinalupihan, Bataan at ₱17.83 million; and San Marcelino, Zambales at ₱17.19 million.

 

Meanwhile, Hermosa, Bataan received ₱15.33 million; Castillejos, Zambales at ₱13.02 million; Morong, Bataan at ₱12.66 million; and San Antonio, Zambales at ₱12.17 million.

 

According to the SBMA Accounting Department, the amount released accounted for two percent of the five percent tax on gross income paid by freeport locators from July to December 2024. The other three percent of the taxes paid are remitted directly to the national government. 

 

The LGU shares are released bi-annually. The first-semester collection is released in August, while the second-semester collection is released in February of the following year. (MPD-SBMA)

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Subic Freeport tows honors at Central Luzon TRES Awards

This premier Freeport was able to rack up major awards at the Department of Tourism’s (DOT) Central Luzon Tourism Recognition for Enterprises and Stakeholders (TRES) Awards 2024 held at the Quest Plus Conference Center, Clark Freeport Zone, on February 26, 2025.

“Winning four prestigious awards is a testament that the agency's collaborative efforts with tourism stakeholders, as well as the tourists themselves, are paying off,” quips Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño.

 

Proof of these collaborative efforts is when the Subic Bay Freeport Zone (SBFZ) emerged victorious in one of the major awards, the “Most Outstanding Community-Based Tourism Program (Central Luzon Sustainable Tourism Summit 2024).” 

 

The SBFZ also bagged 1st Runner-Up awards in the “Most Outstanding Tourism Month Celebration,” the “Most Creative Printed Marketing Collateral (Ecotourism Brochure)”, and the “Top Tourist Destination in the Province/ Freeport Zone category.”

 

During the awarding ceremony, DOT Region 3 Regional Director Dr. Richard Daenos handed the award to SBMA Chief of Staff Atty. Von Rodriguez and Tourism Department Manager Mary Jamelle Camba, who represented the agency on behalf of Chairman Aliño.

 

The chairman cited that the agency aims to boost the tourism industry in this region, adding that it is currently working on several infrastructure projects and facilities that hope to entice more tourists to visit the Freeport. 

 

In 2024, during its Tourism Summit, held as part of the Tourism Month celebration, the SBMA launched the Race to Carbon Neutrality. This project aims to reduce carbon emissions in the SBFZ by 30 percent by 2030 and eventually to net zero by 2040. This will boost the SBFZ’s competitiveness through resource efficiency, improve its brand image by positioning Subic Freeport in the global market, and attract more green foreign direct investments.

 

“This will also bring the SBMA at the forefront of introducing carbon-neutral development strategies into economic, industrial, and trade policies of our country,” he added.

Director Daenos stated that the recognition is a great way to give back to DOT3’s stakeholders.

 

He said, “DOT3 doesn’t undermine the efforts of our industry partners; quite the opposite. Through this award-giving event, we shine a spotlight on their outstanding contributions to the tourism sector over the past year.”

DOT3’s Tourism Development Division and Tourism Regulations Division took on the rigorous task of narrowing down the list of this year’s TRES Awards.

 

“The TRES Awards is aimed at inspiring and challenging its stakeholders to remain committed, driven, and empowered to enhance and elevate the overall tourism experience in the region through their significant contributions,” Daenos said. 

 

Aside from the SBFZ, two of its stakeholders also received accolades. Acea Subic Beach Resort and Ayala Malls Harbor Point bagged awards for showing that stakeholders can greatly boost the tourism sector of this premier Freeport.

 

Acea Subic Beach Resort received the grand award for the Most Gender-Sensitive Accommodation Facility,” winner in the "Tourism Quality Citation: MICE Event Venue (Outdoor),” and second runner-up for the “Green Champion.” The resort is also the “Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE) Advocate awardee.”

Meanwhile, Ayala Malls Harbor Point was awarded the Mabuhay Citation: Public Toilet for having the cleanest and PWD-friendly toilets in Central Luzon. The mall management cited that maintenance, training of employees, cleanliness and odor, amenities inside the restroom, air circulation, and ventilation system have been factors in achieving this award. (MPD-SBMA) 

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SBMA gathers Luzon entrepreneurs for fund bootcamp project

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), through its Business and Investment Group, welcomed aspiring entrepreneurs from different regions of Luzon to the Start-Up Grant Fund Boot Camp.

 

The three-day boot camp, which will run from February 26 to 28 at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC), was organized by the Sulong Central Luzon Start-up Consortium, Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DoST-PCIEERD), and Bulacan State University.

 

During the boot camp, partner agencies like the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will equip the participants with essential skills in line with the Start-up Grant Fund (SGF) Program, such as Innovation and Business Model Thinking, Business Case Development and Market Insights, Pitching and Presentation Mastery, and Proposal Writeshop to perfect grant application.

 

Engr. Dennis Dela Cruz, SULONG Central Luzon Project Leader, opened the event by acknowledging startups and startup enablers present, while Dr. Julius Caesar Sicat, DOST III Regional Director, shared insights on the current state of agriculture, innovation, and science and tech in Region 3.

 

Also, Engr. Edward Paul Apigo, PCIEERD SGF Program Manager, introduced the DOST PCIEERD's programs for startups and startup enablers, highlighting the SGF Program's benefits.

 

Meanwhile, SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator for Business and Investment Renato W. Lee III and Business and Investment Department for Information and Communications Technology (BID-ICT) manager Engr. Panfilo S. Jurilla expressed their unwavering support in making this event happen. Let's innovate, collaborate, and grow together. (MPD-SBMA) 

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