SBMA bares seaport, airport projects for completion in 2028

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Environmentally friendly and cost efficient service

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

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

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

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

Logistics facility for trucks

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

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

Housing projects inside the Freeport

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

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

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

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

Subic as a Smart City

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

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

Skills Training

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

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

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

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

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SBMA signs PNP-SAF extension in Subic Freeport

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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SBMA recognized for outstanding upcycling efforts in CL

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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50 PWDs experience work immersion in SBMA offices, other establishments

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Subic container terminal gets new China service

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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New cargo rail line from Subic to Batangas is flagship project of the Luzon Economic Corridor

The Luzon Economic Corridor steering committee has identified the cargo railway directly connecting Subic Bay in Zambales and Batangas province as the flagship project of the new corridor. 

During the Philippine Economic Briefing at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City, Special Adviser to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs Secretary Frederick Go called the project the Subic-Cargo-Manila-Batangas (SCMB) railway. 

Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista confirmed that the SCMB railway is a new train line aimed at spurring investment opportunities along the corridor. 

This project supersedes the previously stalled 71-km Subic-Clark Railway Project (SCRP) which aimed to link Subic Bay with the Clark International Airport. 

“The only line we approved is only Subic to Clark, but we will extend it to Manila and to Batangas -- one line,” Bautista said. 

Bautista told reporters that the DOTr is preparing a new feasibility study for the SCMB cargo railway.  

“We’re in the process of procuring the consultant who will prepare the feasibility study. Hopefully, in a few weeks or a few months, we will already start the procurement,” Bautista said. 

Meanwhile, Go, who co-chaired the inaugural meeting of the Luzon Economic Corridor steering committee in Manila last week, noted that the SCMB cargo railway will open up significant investment opportunities. 

 

The steering committee consists of United States Senior Advisor to the President for Energy and Investment Amos Hochstein and Japan Ministry of Foreign Affairs Director-General for International Cooperation Bureau Ishizuki Hideo. 

 

Go said that aside from the United States and Japan, the United Kingdom government also wants to get involved in the development of the Luzon Economic Corridor. 

“The UK just came up to me, from the UK Embassy, they said they been wanting to get in touch because they want to get involved in this Luzon economic growth corridor,” Go said. 

 

“And in fact, we were informed by the United States steering committee that the UK indeed has been calling to ask how they can participate in this Luzon economic growth corridor. It can now be potentially be three countries,” the economic czar said. 

Go also pitched renewable energy projects within the growth corridor to support future requirement in the area. (SNL)

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“Lab for All” caravan goes to Subic Freeport

Lab for All Caravan made its current stop at the Subic Bay Exhibition (SBECC) in this premier Freeport on Tuesday to provide free medical services to more than 3,500 people here, including the first district of Zambales. 

The Lab for All Caravan, a flagship project of the Office of the First Lady, was formally opened by the First Lady herself, Marie Louise “Liza” Araneta-Marcos. 

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño, who welcomed the First Lady during her visit to the Freeport, expressed honor for the agency’s being chosen to host the event. 

“It is an honor for us to hold the Lab for All Caravan here,” Aliño said. 

Araneta-Marcos expressed her gratitude to the national government agencies who participated in the Lab for All Caravan, providing much-needed medical consultations, medicine and surgery for free to almost 4,000 beneficiaries. 

She also thanked the local officials from the provinces of Zambales, Pampanga, and Bataan for showing support to the project, and for also showing unity with their constituents during the event. 

During the opening program, the Lab for All jingle was also introduced, which the guest government elected officials learned to dance to. 

The First Lady, Chairman Aliño, Zambales Governor Hermogenes Ebdane Jr., Pampanga Governor Dennis Pineda, Pampanga Vice Governor Lilia Pineda, Bataan Representative Geraldine Roman, Zambales First District Representative Jay Khonghun, and other guest government officials took part dancing to the Lab for All jingle.

Meanwhile, the SBMA Board of Directors, Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) Director Rolen Paulino, and other guest government officials also took part in the activities.

The guest agencies in the event include the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Trade Industry (DTI), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), Pag-Ibig, and PhilHealth.

Chairman Aliño said that the SBMA is always ready to support any national government endeavors, especially programs that benefit the masses. “Our doors in Subic Bay Freeport are always open. It is an honor for us to be of service to our people,” Aliño said. (MPD-SBMA) 

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SBMA, DHSUD sign MOU on employee housing in Subic Freeport

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) at the Corporate Boardroom of the Administration Building, for the establishment of employee housing here in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone (SBFZ).

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño said that the MOU on the housing project inside the SBFZ will benefit the employees of the agency. 

Meanwhile, DHSUD Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar stated that the housing project is in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino (4PH) Program.

“This housing project will greatly benefit SBMA employees especially those who fall within the low income bracket, so they can also afford to buy housing units that they can call home. Thank you Secretary Acuzar for this wonderful gift to the SBMA workforce,” Aliño said.

The SBMA official also shared that the Socialized Housing Project will last up to 50 years where the beneficiary will be given a Certificate of Ownership of Leasehold Rights, instead of a title. 

“Those who will qualify as beneficiary shall receive a five percent subsidy on the interest rate from the DHSUD. In addition, while PAG-IBIG's regular interest rate is 6.25 percent, under the 4PH Interest Subsidy Program of DHSUD, it will be just 1.25 percent,” Aliño said.

Secretary Acuzar vowed his full support to the SBMA's shelter provision initiatives for its workers and locators alike, citing that the former US naval base's strategic location and infrastructures that are already in place are ideal for the development of inclusive housing communities under 4PH.

DHSUD Undersecretary Emmanuel Pineda, Regional Office 3 Director Julius Enciso, the SBMA Board of Directors, SBMA officials and other DHSUD officials witnessed the signing ceremony. (MPD-SBMA)

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Subic companies briefed by the SBMA, FIRB on amended CREATE Act

Locators in the country’s premier Freeport were briefed on the latest amendments on the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE) Act by the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and the Fiscal Incentives Review Board (FIRB) of the Department of Finance on May 15. 

 According to SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño, the said Locators’ Briefing held at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC) aims to provide information and updates on the CREATE Act to companies here.

The FIRB delegation is composed of Legal Group OIC and Deputy Executive Director Atty. Michael Ricaza, Legal Group Attorney IV Atty. Brandon L. Berad, Monitoring and Evaluation Group Division Chief Lois Ruth Santiago, Financial Analyst II Atty. Ria Mariz Nadora and Financial Analyst II Jessa Mae Rapisora. 

 

The FIRB is an inter-agency government body authorized by the Philippine law to grant tax incentives to registered business enterprises, whose powers and functions were enhanced under CREATE Act.

 

Meanwhile, Aliño said that the forum participants consisted of company representatives of Subic Freeport companies engaged in general business, logistics, import/ export, and trading. 

 

“The feedback we gather from our locators will provide better insight to the agency on its operations, relative to the CREATE Act,” Aliño added.

 

Last year, Nidec Subic Philippines Corporation gained the unanimous approval of the FIRB, and passed the scrutiny of the eight agency-member FIRB Technical Committee.

 

With the approval of the FIRB en banc, Nidec Subic is now entitled to Income Tax Holiday for six years, Special Corporate Income Tax for ten years, Duty-Exemption on Importation for 16 years, Value-Added Tax (VAT) Exemption on Importation for 16 years, and VAT Zero-Rating on Local Purchase for 16 years. 

 

Nidec’s application for the said incentives is synchronized with the CREATE Act that aims to steer the national economy towards global competitiveness by implementing tax policies that are instrumental in attracting investments. (MPD-SBMA) 

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PBBM welcomes Cerberus, Hyundai tie up in Subic Bay to restore PH shipbuilding glory days

The partnership between US equity firm Cerberus and South Korea’s HD Hyundai Heavy Industries in the strategically located Subic Bay will allow the Philippines to regain its footing in the global shipbuilding industry, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said Tuesday. 

During the announcement of the partnership in Malacañang, Marcos welcomed the two global companies to the Philippines and expressed optimism about the project’s potential impact on the country’s economy. 

He said Hyundai's investment would not only open “new doors for our offshore wind industry but will also bring maritime manufacturing back to Subic and eventually restore the glory days of shipbuilding to our shores.” 

“Not only would it generate thousands of jobs, but also enable the transfer of critical skills and improve the Philippines' position in the global market,” he said. 

“The Philippines is also quite excited to see the realization of Cerberus’ plans, including its interest in microelectronics, semiconductors, and critical metals.” 

Hyundai already performs ship repairs and maintenance at the Agila Subic yard, which Cerberus acquired in 2022 after its former owner went bankrupt. 

In his message, Marcos noted that since Cerberus’ takeover of the shipyard, it has been “hard at work to revitalize the shipyard” and even attracted other tenants, including Subcom, the world's leading subsea cable company, and V2X, a global logistics corporation. 

Cerberus is a global alternative investment firm with assets across credit, private equity, and real estate strategies. 

“And you have worked closely with our Philippine Navy while establishing a world-class operating base for our Navy,” he said. 

Currently, the Philippine Navy has a naval operating base in Subic with nearly 1,000 personnel. 

The Chief Executive also acknowledged HG Hyundai, one of the largest producers of ships in the world, saying that its foray into the country would “usher in a new era of shipbuilding” in the Philippines. 

In 2022, according to Marcos, the country was the seventh-largest shipbuilder in the world, contributing almost 400,000 gross tons of newly built sea and ocean-going vessels. 

“This is a far cry from our capacity in the past, and even far behind the output of shipbuilding behemoths like South Korea and Japan,” he said. 

“With this initiative of Cerberus and HG Hyundai, we will have a fresh start and a strong foundation in realizing our vision to be amongst the largest and most consequential shipbuilders in the world.” (PNA)

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