SBMA turns over ₱1.465B revenue earnings to the national coffers

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) officially handed over ₱1,465,478,485.70 in revenue earnings to the Department of Finance (DOF) at the DOF Building, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Complex in Manila on July 14, 2025.

In a simple ceremony, SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño presented a mock check for ₱1,465,478,485.70 to Finance Secretary Ralph Recto, which demonstrates a steady income flow of the business community within the Subic Bay Freeport Zone (SBFZ). 

Today, we once again gather to celebrate the strength of good governance and nation-building as the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority officially hands over ₱1.4 billion in dividends to the National Treasury,” said Secretary Recto.

The secretary cited that dividends are his favorite source of revenue because they “help raise funds for government programs without raising taxes on our people.”

According to Chairman Aliño, the ₱1.465-billion dividends comprise 50 percent of the net earnings incurred in 2024 worth ₱798,267,923.24. 

“Aside from the dividend due, the ₱1.465-billion earnings also include the ₱667,210,562.46 as the last installment for dividends of 2022,” he added.

Meanwhile, the finance chef stated, “The SBMA was created to transform what was once a military base into a world-class economic engine – a self-sustaining investment hub that generates jobs and opportunities for our people.”

“As we look to the future, I urge the SBMA to take the next bold step. We have the talent, the location, the incentives, and the leadership to make Subic not just a regional hub, but a global player. So, let’s keep raising your standards, keep innovating, and keep making Subic the kind of place where investors would want to come, stay, and grow,” he added. (MPD-SBMA) 

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PH Defense Secretary open to US plan to establish ammo facility in Subic Bay

MANILA – National Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Monday expressed openness to the possibility of a US ammunition production and storage facility being eyed at the former American base in Subic Bay, Zambales.

While he has not yet received any formal proposal, he believes such a development would be beneficial to the Philippines.

"Any production entity which would be of benefit to the Philippines, not only in terms of our resilience, but improving, giving employment, and other technological transfers, that might be encouraged," he said in a press briefing at the Makati Shangri-La Hotel.

He said such a proposal is likely considering that the Philippines and the United States are "like-minded and treaty partners".

Earlier reports said US lawmakers are looking at the possibility of establishing these facilities at Subic Bay, citing the "lack of forward-staged ammunition manufacturing" in the Indo-Pacific Region.

With this development, the US House Committee on Appropriations ordered its Department of Defense, State Department, and the International Development Finance Corporation to assess the feasibility of establishing such facilities in Subic Bay. (PNA) 

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PH, US sign deal to develop the Subic-Clark-Manila-Batangas freight railway

The Philippines and the United States have signed an agreement to pursue the development of the proposed Subic-Clark-Manila-Batangas (SCMB) freight railway, a strategic infrastructure project designed to alleviate port congestion in key trade hubs and foster broader economic growth and connectivity.

Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vince Dizon and US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) Acting Director Thomas Hardy signed the agreement in Arlington, Virginia, on Wednesday (June 26).

In a statement released by the DOTr, the USTDA said that its technical assistance for the SCMB Railway involves transport model development, a port-rail integration study, and an analysis of the legal and institutional framework, among other activities.

Hardy said the project “underscores the US-Philippine alliance’s vital role in maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific region. By supporting the development of the SCMB Railway, we are ensuring that key infrastructure will flourish, increasing economic cooperation to develop an essential trading route that will mutually benefit American and Philippine citizens.”

Dizon said the 155-kilometer railway is designed to connect three of the country’s major ports—Manila, Subic Bay, and Batangas—enhancing logistical efficiency and regional connectivity.

“As a freight cargo railway, the SCMB Railway is seen to solve port traffic and congestion in Manila Port, while ensuring the timely movement of products to and from adjacent major transport hubs,” Dizon said.

Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs Secretary Frederick D. Go said the project enhances the initiative to link major economic hubs under the Luzon Economic Corridor.

“Once operational, the SCMB Railway will attract investments, create new opportunities for businesses, and most importantly, generate quality jobs that will benefit millions of Filipinos,” Go said. (SNL)

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SBMA, DTI inaugurate bamboo nursery in Subic Freeport

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Zambales jointly inaugurated a tree and bamboo nursery at the El Kabayo here on June 24, 2025.

SBMA Ecology Center OIC Rossell L. Abuyo said that the Bamboo Nursery is in partnership with DTI Zambales and other private stakeholders to provide an area where bamboo saplings can be propagated and grown inside the Freeport.

She added that the opening of the El Kabayo Tree and Bamboo Nursery is just the first step, and will be followed by a “Bambusetum” in the same area.

“A bambusetum is a specialized garden or collection dedicated to the cultivation and study of various bamboo species. It serves as a gene bank for bamboo conservation, allowing for the observation of different growth habits and characteristics of these plants, which are often more distinct than their floral characteristics,” she explained.

She added that bambusetums are valuable for scientific, educational, and aesthetic purposes.

DTI Director Enrique Tacbad mentioned that, besides the environmental benefits of bamboo, these plants can also serve as a good source of livelihood for the community. He pointed out that various products, as well as bamboo propagules, can be made from bamboo.

He added that soon the area would become a place to process and manufacture bamboo fibers and other products that can be sold to the market.

“With regards to these anticipated needs, there is a need for a sustainable supply of raw materials; thus, a bambusetum or bambudal (in Spanish) can supply the said materials needed at any time,” he said.

The bambusetum is a collection of living bamboos, which may consist of native or exotic, raised and cultivated for educational, research, and development, or aesthetic purposes, or any combination thereof.

“Initially, for SBMA's bambusetum, we are preparing for at least 15-20 species of bamboo,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Banco Kalikasan Environmental Movement, Inc. donated 200 iron bamboo propagules to the El Kabayo Tree and Bamboo Nursery during the opening ceremony. Banco Kalikasan President Emar Alcantara and Project Coordinator Mary Grace Alcantara were present to deliver the propagules to the Subic Bay Freeport.

Iron bamboo, scientifically known as Guadua Angustifolia, is a type of bamboo known for its exceptional strength and is considered a premier material for construction and engineered bamboo production. It is native to South America and has been successfully introduced to the Philippines, where it is a priority species for propagation. (MPD-SBMA) 

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SBMA celebrates week-long Subic Bay Arbor Day 2025

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) kicked off its week-long celebration of Subic Bay Arbor Day 2025 with the opening ceremony held at the Harbor Point Ayala Mall Promenade on Monday, June 23.

Dubbed “Kanian Tiawan, Kanian Biag, Kanian Biay,” in Ayta Ambala dialect, or “Our Forest, Our Home, Our Life” in English, the week-long celebration started on June 23 and will end on June 27.

SBMA Chief-of-Staff Atty. Von F. Rodriguez, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Zambales Provincial Director Enrique D. Tacbad, joined SBMA Ecology Center OIC Rossell L. Abuyo during the ribbon-cutting ceremony to formally open the series of events.

The Subic Bay Arbor Day features an expo at the Harbor Point Ayala Mall from June 23 to 27. Additionally, a Bamboo Nursery will be launched at the El Kabayo forest area on June 24, and Tiawon Talks will host online lectures on June 26.

Other events include the Carbon Mo Capture Mo Photography Contest on June 27, and the Magtanum Kitamo Arbor Day tree planting activity at the Mulawin-Bayakan Reforestation Site on June 27.

Speaking on behalf of SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño, Chief of Staff Rodriguez said that the agency is taking vital steps to achieve a carbon-neutral zone here in Subic Bay Freeport. He added that the agency is holding the annual event diligently to ensure that the environment here is well taken care of.

Subic Bay Freeport boasts a well-preserved natural environment, offering a scenic backdrop for businesses and a place where nature and productivity intersect. The area is naturally sheltered from typhoons due to its mountain ranges and deep harbor.

The SBMA is actively engaged in environmental management, including waste management and conservation efforts. (MPD-SBMA) 

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SBMA to launch e-buses soon

As the Subic Bay Freeport Zone (SBFZ) pushes towards its carbon neutrality goal, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) is poised to launch pure battery electric buses (PBEB) in this premier Freeport within the year.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño said that the PBEB project parallels the agency’s thrust of making the Freeport the first carbon-neutral economic zone in the Philippines, under the “Race to Carbon Neutrality” program.

He added that the PBEB project will entail the construction of fast electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS) at the SBMA Maintenance and Transportation Department (MTD) motor pool area. Another charging station donated by the Department of Energy (DOE) will be installed along Argonaut Highway.

“Ten units of these pure battery electric buses were delivered here in Subic Bay Freeport last May 13.  We have road tested one of the buses on May 27 with several members of the SBMA Board. It is quite comfortable and provides easy access for persons with disabilities,” Aliño said.

For the upcoming launch of the PBEBs inside the Freeport, the SBMA has allotted a budget of ₱10 million for the construction of new bus stops and the rehabilitation of existing ones. Its completion is expected by December 2025.

Apart from the EVCs, the project also includes the renovation of the Kalaklan Gate Terminal, which serves as Subic Bay Freeport’s entry point for people coming from Zambales.

A total of 58 bus stops will be constructed, eight around the Central Business District, 16 at the Cubi Area, six at theme park areas, 18 at the Binictican Housing area, and ten at the Kalayaan Housing area.

The PBEBs were acquired through Golden Asia Automotive Builders, Inc., and manufactured by Xiamen King Long United Automotive Industry Co., Ltd., which was founded in 1988 with over 30 years of bus manufacturing experience.

With a target to reduce carbon emissions by 30 percent by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2040, the SBMA is pushing to become the first Carbon Neutral Port in the country through initiatives such as the ₱250-million Carbon Neutral Port project with shore power connections for ships. (MPD-SBMA)

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Wilcon to open branch in Subic Bay Freeport

Renowned leading home improvement and construction supplies retailer Wilcon Depot is set to open its ₱700 million branch within this premier Freeport soon.

The construction of a new branch inside Subic Bay Freeport was confirmed as the lease agreement was signed between Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño and Wilcon Depot, Inc. Chairman Emeritus William Belo at the SBMA's administration building early this month.

According to the lease agreement, the branch will be located at Sampson Road, Central Business District of SBFZ, with a lot area of 5,308 square meters, including the renovation of a portion of Building 640, and the construction of a showroom. 

“This is a great addition to the companies located here, with many construction companies, home builders, and other DIY enthusiasts flocking to the area to buy building materials, tiles, plumbing, and other DIY items,” Aliño said.

Aliño said the company will hire 200 personnel for its operation, adding to the growing number of workers inside the Subic Bay Freeport Zone. (MPD-SBMA) 

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SBMA to build ₱1B residential complex for its employees

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) is set to build a ₱1-billion residential complex featuring four condominium buildings, which will be constructed within this premier Freeport zone, offering affordable housing for its employees.

 

To be called Subic Bay Residencias, the housing project was made official during the signing of the lease agreement between the SBMA and the Philippine Community Housing Corporation. (PCHC) CSE Builders Joint Venture Company Ltd. held at the administration building on June 4, 2025.

 

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño and PCHC General Manager Mary Grace Ocampo signed the lease before top government officials, including Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) Undersecretaries Emmanuel D. Pineda and Eduardo P. Robles Jr., the SBMA Board of Directors, and officials from PAG-IBIG Fund led by Finance and Utilities Department Manager Brenda T. Cao.

 

According to Chairman Aliño, Subic Bay Residencias will be built at Lot 70-B, Rizal Highway Extension, Central Business District, Subic Bay Freeport Zone, with a total of 20,762 square meters.

 

“The development and construction of Subic Bay Residencias will consist of four condominium buildings and other auxiliary uses such as parks, a swimming pool, a clubhouse, a tennis court, a daycare center, and retail area/commercial areas,” Aliño said.

 

He said that the four buildings will have a total of 1,600 to 1,920 units, with a selling price of ₱1.8 million per unit, which may be reduced to ₱1.6 million, depending on the availability and area preference, and the financial capability of the beneficiary.

 

He added that the total minimum development commitment is ₱1 billion, within a maximum period of five years from the commencement of the LA, citing that this is just the first phase of the many housing projects inside the Freeport.

 

A thrust under the Marcos administration’s 4PH Program, the socialized housing for workers inside the SBFZ like the Subic Bay Residencias is geared towards providing housing for the employees of the agency.

 

Back in May 2024, SBMA signed a memorandum of understanding with the DHSUD to construct socialized housing under the 4PH Program within the SBFZ. The housing project aims to provide affordable yet sustainable houses to Freeport zone workers who fall under the low-income bracket.

“Its advantage is that it is close to their workplace. Because what we want to happen is that after you work, we want you to be able to just walk from your work to home to save time and save money,” Aliño said. (MPD-SBMA) 

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SBMA establishes EODB lane for ID processing for SBF locators

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has recently established the Ease of Doing Business (EODB) lane, a special lane dedicated to the batch processing of identification cards for employees and workers here.

SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator for Business and Investment Renato Lee III, who recently inspected the agency’s frontline services on May 30 with the SBMA Anti-Red Tape Unit members, also visited the SBMA-Office Services Department (OSD)’s Pass Issuance and Control Division (PICD).

 

To facilitate the efficient processing of SBMA IDs for companies with many employees, the PICD institutionalized batch processing through non-appearance processing for 20 or more applicants or off-site processing for 100 or more applicants.

 

“It only takes 24 minutes per application for both non-appearance processing and off-site processing. Last year, the OSD-PICD was able to process 5,273 applications from various SBF companies through off-site ID processing, and 2,948 applications as of May 2025,” Lee said.

 

“While processing individual applications at the OSD is generally straightforward, the overall processing and waiting tend to increase when applicants come in groups,” he added.

 

In addition to the OSD-PICD, Lee also inspected the Motor Vehicle Registration Office, the Telecommunications Department, the Ecology Department, the Building Permit Department, the Visa Processing Office, the Business Group’s Logistics Department, the Manufacturing and Maritime Department, the Leisure Department, and the Tourism Department.

 

The Anti-Red Tape Unit inspection was accompanied by stakeholders, including the Subic Bay Freeport Chamber of Commerce (SBFCC). It also coincided with EODB month as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. declared May as the Ease of Doing Business (EODB) Month.

 

This year’s theme is “From Red Tape to Red Carpet: Better Business Movement in a Bagong Pilipinas” which promotes the government’s collective efforts in fostering a more conducive business environment that benefits every Filipino in the Bagong Pilipinas. (MPD-SBMA) 

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₱4.135-B multi-modal logistics, transport hub to rise in Subic Freeport

 

A ₱4.135-billion multi-modal logistics and transport hub will soon rise in this premier Freeport, as the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and the Subic Bay Freeport Grain Terminal Services, Inc. (SBFGTSI) partnered to construct this project.

Senior Deputy Administrator for Business and Investment Renato Lee III and SBFGTSI Executive Vice President Lester C. Valdes recently signed the lease contracts and amendment to the existing contracts at the SBMA Corporate Boardroom on May 28, 2025.

According to Lee, the construction of the multi-modal logistics and transport hub will integrate sections along San Bernardino Road within the Subic Port District and parts of the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA).

The committed investment for the proposed development of these areas includes P660-million for Lot 4, P1.8-billion for Lot 5, P801-million for Lot 6, P20-million for Lot 7, and P854-million for Lot 8. 

These developments include a petroleum tank farm, grain storage, an airport logistics hub, dry storage and warehouse facilities, cold storage areas, a commercial and hospitality hub for cruise ships, and a new wharf for ultra-large cruise ships. 

This is also seen to generate employment for 798 workers. 

“This is a huge step for Subic Bay Freeport as it reaches its goal to have a more modern air and seaport which are expected to boost the port’s capacity, increase competitiveness, and generate more revenue,” Lee said.

Subic’s port development program aligns with the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC) Development initiative of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., whose projects are expected to be completed by the end of his term in 2028. These development projects inside the Subic Bay Freeport zone are part of the “Build Better More” project of President Marcos’ administration. (MPD-SBMA) 

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SBMA keeps Subic Freeport locators abreast on logistics automation, other services

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) held a Locators’ Forum at the Subic Bay Travelers Hotel on May 26, 2025 with 170 locators in attendance.

According to SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño, the Subic Bay International Container Terminal Corp. (SBITC), SBMA Seaport Department, and SBMA Trade Facilitation and Compliance Department (TFCD) collaborated to stage the forum, which was also graced by SBMA Director Cecile Bobadilla-Bitare.

During the forum dubbed “Updates on Logistics Services, Port Projects and Automation,” Senior Deputy Administrator for Port Operations Ronnie Yambao cited in his opening message the ₱233-million state-of-the-art Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS) launched in February 2024. The VTMS significantly improved the safety and operational efficiency of vessel tracking across the Freeport.

Yambao added that the agency is in the initial stages of procurement to implement the Shore Power Connection project, which would reduce air pollution from ships at berth by 95 percent.

“Phase 1, focusing on the New Container Terminal, is set to commence in 2026 with a budget of ₱100 million, followed by Phase 2 covering the Naval Supply Depot and Ship Repair Facility from 2027 to 2028, requiring P150 million,” he said.

He also mentioned the numerous port expansion projects with a total approximate budget of US$878.7 million, including a new Container Terminal 3 with a capacity of 300,000 TEUs, estimated at US$359 million; a multipurpose terminal at Redondo Peninsula, valued at US$162 million; a multipurpose terminal in Lower Mau, supporting bulk and break-bulk industries, costing US$182 million; and a dedicated cruise terminal to boost tourism, with an investment of ₱10.2 billion.

Furthermore, he added that the SBMA is enhancing its logistics capabilities to support multi-modal transport.

“The Freeport boasts a modern container terminal with a capacity of 600,000 TEUs, expandable to one million TEUs, and is accessible by land, sea, and air. Plans include integration with the Luzon Economic Corridor via railway,” he said.

The official also stated that the SBMA has implemented various automation initiatives to streamline cargo movement and enhance efficiency, including the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA), Electronic Transit Admission Permit System (ETAPS), and Automated Export Documentation System (AEDS).

The agency is also considering a partnership with the Port of San Diego to transform Subic Freeport into a smart port city.

“This collaboration aims to integrate artificial intelligence, automation, break bulk cargo handling, shore power connections, cruise ship terminal development, and ship repair capabilities,” he said. (MPD-SBMA)

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BYD Philippines opens Subic branch

In line with its thrust to make this premier Freeport a carbon-neutral economic zone by 2030, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) opened its doors to BYD Philippines, with its newest branch here. 

 

During its grand opening on May 19, 2025, SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño said that the entry of China’s leading electric vehicle maker here solidifies the stance of the agency in making Subic Freeport carbon-neutral. 

 

He added that the Harmony Auto Philippines-operated branch of BYD will certainly sell a huge volume of electric vehicles that will significantly reduce harmful emissions, while making this premier Freeport its home. 

 

The BYD Subic Branch offers consumers an option for owning a vehicle that is eco-friendly and energy-efficient. The showroom cum service center offers the newest and the latest electric vehicles to residents of Central Luzon.

 

Aliño, BYD Philippines Country Head Adam Hu, BYD Cars Philippines Managing Director Bob Palanca, and Harmony Auto Philippines General Manager Owen Meneses led the inauguration of the fifth franchise of the Chinese EV brand in the country.

 

Also gracing the event were Bataan Congressman Albert Garcia, former Hermosa Mayor Joseph Anthony Inton, and Olongapo City Mayor Rolen Paulino Jr., as well as the SBMA Board of Directors as guests of honor.

 

Subic Bay Freeport is equipped with various EV charging stations that are easily accessible to the public. One is located at the ACEA Subic Beach Resort; another at the Harbor Point Ayala Mall at the Rizal Highway; and one at the Unioil Petroleum Philippines Inc. Subic. (MPD-SBMA) 

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Spanish Ambassador sees investment prospects in Subic Freeport

The Ambassador of Spain to the Philippines, His Excellency Miguel Ultray Delgado visited this premier Freeport and explored opportunities for more Spanish companies to invest here. 

 

During his visit to Subic Bay Freeport on May 22, 2025, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) officials, led by Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño welcomed Ambassador Delgado at the administration building.

 

The delegation included the Embassy’s Trade and Economic Counsellor Silvia Torices de la Varga, Market Analyst Jose Primo Santos Mendoza, Economic and Commercial Attache Pedro González Lendínez, and Metalyset CEO Jose Moreno Sanchez Perez. 

 

“Subic Bay stands now as a beacon of economic potential, and if it can sustain this progress, it can become a premier logistics and trade hub in Southeast Asia,” Delgado said. 

 

Delgado added that as proof of its progress, Subic Bay Freeport was named among the best Economic Zones in the world in the White Paper study that the Spanish company IDOM is preparing, together with FEMOZA (World Free and Special Economic Zones Federation).

 

According to Delgado, their visit came at a perfect time as the Spanish government takes an interest in Subic, with several Spanish firms from different sectors. “We have brought here the best possible example with Metalyset, and we expect to bring more in the following years,” he added.

 

Metalyset is an international technical and industrial services company founded in 2008 in Spain by professionals with extensive experience in the metalworking industry. The company has been continuously expanding and growing, developing increasingly large-scale projects until its international expansion in 2015. 

 

Meanwhile, Chairman Aliño said that the visit is a testament to the strong ties between the Philippines and Spain, as one of the most historic sites in the Subic Bay Freeport is the Spanish Gate, the original gate of Subic.

 

Also present during the delegation’s visit is Xantheng Subic International Corporation Assistant to the CEO, Best Chang, who provided a glimpse of the various Taiwanese investments in Subic Freeport, including the Tipo High-tech Eco Park (THEP) and the Subic Bay Gateway Park (SBGP).

 

Chairman Aliño thanked the Spanish government for its unwavering support in helping develop the Philippines into an economic powerhouse in renewable energy, sustainable tourism, and maritime education.

 

Ambassador Delgado said, “By leveraging our shared history and mutual aspirations, we can foster a future that embraces innovation and inclusivity. Subic Bay, with its storied past and promising future, stands as a symbol of our enduring friendship and shared commitment to progress.” (MPD-SBMA)

 

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SBMA inaugurates ₱44M Upper Binictican bridge

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has inaugurated and opened the ₱44-million new Upper Binictican Bridge at the Binictican Area of this premier Freeport on May 15, 2025.

 

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño said that the new Upper Binictican Bridge replaced the old structure that was built by the Americans in the 1960s when this Freeport was still a US Naval Base.

 

Aliño added that the old bridge has already served motorists in this Freeport for more than 60 years now and should be replaced since it connects the residential area of Binictican to the rest of the Subic Bay Freeport Zone. 

 

He further said that the SBMA Engineering Department and maintenance management company A. C. Ong conducted a structural investigation that revealed the old bridge was already in the advanced stage of deterioration due to long-term structural damage. 

 

A few years back, the SBMA and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) entered into a memorandum of agreement (MOA) for the construction of a new bridge that will replace the old one. 

 

The SBMA’s Office of the Deputy Administrator (ODA) for Public Works and Technical Services Group (PWTSG) led the construction of the new bridge that was designed and supervised by the DPWH Bataan 1st District Engineering Office (DEO). 

 

PWTSG Deputy Administrator Engr. Marco Estabillo said that the construction commenced on May 8, 2024, and was foreseen to be completed by May 15, 2025. 

 

Estabillo further said that the new bridge design is a reinforced concrete deck girder (RCDG) bridge with a single span and two lanes. The bridge, meanwhile, will be supported by reinforced concrete abutments and a mat/ spread foundation due to the rocky/ boulder nature of the earth.

 

The old bridge measured 17.30m in length, 7.30m in width, with no sidewalks. Meanwhile, the new bridge, Estabillo added, is 22.80m in length, 7.32m in width, with 1.11m sidewalks on both sides, and is now higher by 1.20 meters to prevent log clogging and higher river water capacity absorption during typhoons. 

 

“Transition roads will be regraded and repaved with six meters of Portland cement with asphalt overlay and extensions,” he said.

 

The new bridge will now allow tourists to visit the Pamulaklakin Trail, one of the most visited areas of the Subic Bay Freeport, since it is part of the Pastolan Ayta’s facility that allows tourists to experience outdoor life while learning survival skills from the Ayta instructors. (MPD-SBMA) 

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Ret. US Navy educates SBF stakeholders on Box Jellyfish Awareness and Treatment

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Public Health and Safety Group (PHSD) has tapped the expertise of United States Navy retired Chief Petty Officer Michael Walls to educate stakeholders here on Box Jellyfish Awareness and Treatment.

 

Around 218 participants, mostly SBMA employees, locators, residents, guests, and other SBF stakeholders, Association of Ambulance Operators in Olongapo and Zambales, and other medical responders, especially locators in the beach resort business, took part in the seminar held at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC) on May 9, 2025.

 

"We are seeing more jellyfish now than in previous years," Wells said.

 

“Stings from the box jellyfish can be fatal, especially in children," Walls added. He expounded further by imparting ways on how to avoid incidents of jellyfish stings, as well as immediate treatment when subjected to such.

 

According to the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman-College of Science, the box jellyfish is known for its distinctive box-like appearance and potent venom that can cause potentially systemic effects, which if not immediately addressed, could be fatal.

 

The Chironex yamaguchii, a dangerous species of box jellyfish known to originate from Japan, is also present in Philippine waters, as well as in the Indo-Pacific and Western Pacific regions. Their tentacles can inflict extreme pain, cause skin injuries with welts, and even trigger heart attacks and death.

 

The Box Jellyfish Awareness and Treatment seminar, which aims to promote critical knowledge that could help save lives in case of a box jellyfish sting, is part of the SBMA’s Public Health and Safety Group’s Health and Wellness Caravan. (MPD-SBMA)

 

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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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