SBMA, BOC sign MOU to regulate admission of recyclable non-hazmat in SBF

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and the Bureau of Customs (BOC)-Port of Subic signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will regulate the admission of recyclable non-hazardous materials inside this Freeport.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño and BOC-Port of Subic District Collector Noel C. Estanislao signed the MOU that will boost the recycling sector in the freeport, at the Corporate Boardroom of the Administration Building here on October 2, 2025.

“This agreement will not only ensure proper regulation of recyclable non-hazardous materials, but also enhance our shared efforts to safeguard our borders, protect the environment, and support legitimate industries within the Freeport,” Estanislao said. 

The MOU stipulates that the SBMA has formulated the Proposed Guidelines relative to the Admission of Non-Hazardous Materials, in line with the Freeport’s policies and regulations, and to facilitate the admission of goods and operations in the recycling industry.

The MOU also states that both agencies will coordinate and collaborate to ensure the smooth, transparent, compliant, and efficient conduct of recycling operations, exchange of information on the recycling industry, and provision of capacity building initiatives for SBMA and BOC personnel, as well as registered SBFZ recyclers, to ascertain proper understanding of policies and guidelines.

A policy review will also be conducted to periodically assess and evaluate its applicability and propose recommendations as needed, to rectify and address operational gaps and challenges, and changing circumstances.

Aliño expressed his gratitude to the BOC Port of Subic for the unwavering commitment to nation-building, citing that the collaboration between government agencies and the private sector is necessary in attracting more businesses while protecting the environment.

Recyclable non-hazardous materials are identified as common waste items such as paper, cardboard, metals (cans), glass (bottles and jars), and certain plastics (such as pet bottles) that generally do not pose a significant threat to human health or the environment. 

While generally safe, proper sorting and cleaning of these materials are essential to prevent contamination and ensure they can be processed for reuse, thereby conserving resources and reducing landfill waste, which eventually benefit the environment.

Senior Deputy Administrator for Regulatory Amethya Dela Llana said that the Subic Bay Freeport has 12 companies in the recycling industry, with four other companies eyeing to set up their businesses here. 

Dela Llana added that the SBMA regularly conducts Recyclables Collection Events (RCEs) and weekly recycling initiatives to collect these materials for recycling and upcycling, the proceeds of which support charities like ABS-CBN Lingkod Kapamilya Foundation.

Prior to the MOU signing, a public hearing was held at the Subic Bay Yacht Club where locators were presented with Proposed Guidelines, Implementing Procedures, Liquidation reports, and Basis of Fines and Penalties in the Admission of Non-Hazardous Materials in the SBFZ. (MPD-SBMA) 

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SBMA, HPG to establish motor vehicle clearance office in Subic Freeport

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and the Philippine National Police-Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) will be working on establishing a Motor Vehicle Clearance Division (MVCD) inside this premier Freeport.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño said that the creation of the MVCD satellite office will safeguard the Freeport from the illegal exit of unregistered vehicles

Aliño signed the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Lt. Col. Jansky Andrew S. Jaafar, Officer-In-Charge of the PNP-HPG’s MVCD on September 29, 2025 at the SBMA administration building.

According to Jaafar, the MVCD is a unit within the Philippine National Police (PNP) that is responsible for issuing motor vehicle clearances, which are primarily required for the transfer of ownership of used vehicles to ensure they are not stolen or involved in criminal activities.

The MVCD office will process and issue Motor Vehicle Clearance Certificates (MVCC) as required by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) for all vehicles to the general public.

The satellite office will also maintain a database called the Vehicle Information Management System (VIMS) that records or lists alarmed or stolen vehicles. The office will notify the SBMA of an alarmed or stolen motor vehicle, especially when it is being registered under a Subic Bay Freeport locator or resident.

Chairman Aliño said that the creation of the MVCD satellite office will offer added protection by safeguarding the freeport from unscrupulous individuals who plan to use the area to register alarmed or stolen vehicles.

“The SBMA is more than willing to work hand-in-hand with other government agencies in ensuring the safety and security within and around the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, and deter people from conducting illegal activities in the area,” he added. (MPD-SBMA) 

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Turnaround operations for MV Costa Serena commences in Subic Bay Freeport

This premier Freeport has stepped up its services as it marked a significant milestone in the cruise ship industry, becoming the turnaround hub for the MV Costa Serena cruise ship on September 26, 2025.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño shared that the processing of passengers for the cruise turnaround was conducted at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC).

245 passengers from the Port of Busan, South Korea, disembarked the MV Costa Serena while some 2,700 passengers boarded the cruise ship for a six-day tour to other Asian countries.

The ship departed the Port of Subic Bay, en route to Keelung, Taiwan, followed by Ishigaki, Japan, ending its six-day journey at the Port of Manila.

“Turnaround cruises” refers to the practice where a cruise ship's itinerary starts and ends in the same port, typically a major city like Miami or Rome, allowing for passenger and crew changes, and ship servicing before the next group boards. 

These “turnaround ports” facilitate a continuous cycle of voyages, as opposed to repositioning cruises, which are one-way trips that move ships to a new homeport for a different season, often resulting in more sea days and unique itineraries. (MPD-SBMA)

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Subic Bay welcomes Villa Vie Odyssey cruise ship maiden visit

The Villa Vie Odyssey cruise ship docked at this Freeport on Tuesday morning (September 23) as its maiden ship call here.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) officials and employees were present to welcome the passengers and crew of the Villa Vie Odyssey, along with representatives from the Bureau of Immigration, Bureau of Quarantine, and other stakeholders.

Some 650 passengers disembarked from the cruise ship as the Villa Vie Odyssey stayed in the Freeport for two days, with her passengers visiting the many tourism destinations inside Subic Bay Freeport.

The Villa Vie Odyssey is a residential cruise ship offering a unique, full-time world cruise experience for residents, or “global residents,” who purchase cabins for long-term stays, rather than traditional shorter cruises.

Once known as the Braemar, the 924-passenger ship was purchased by Villa Vie Residences in 2023 and underwent a significant refurbishment before its 2024 launch.

The ship is designed to be smaller than mega-ships, allowing access to smaller, unique ports, and features a variety of amenities, including dining, pools, a gym with Peloton bikes, and community spaces for activities like art and fitness classes. (MPD-SBMA) 

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SBMA reveals big-ticket projects to AMCHAM North Luzon

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has revealed three big-ticket infrastructure projects before the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines, Inc. (AMCHAM)-North Luzon during the latter’s visit here on September 17, 2025.

During the Subic Freeport leg of its visit to economic districts in the country, SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator (SDA) for Business and Investment Renato Lee III welcomed AMCHAM President Denise H. R. Molintas at the SBMA corporate boardroom. 

Department of Transportation (DOTR) Planning Service Director Felicisimo C. Pangilinan Jr. also shared a few insights on the various projects that would boost businesses in Luzon.

According to Lee, the SBMA is planning to create a new cruise ship berth at the Redondo Peninsula where cruise ships making their port calls in Subic can unload their passengers at the said facility.

He added that the ₱1.2-billion facility will have a quay length of 380 meters for berth 1, and 350 meters for berth 2. Lee cited that the reclamation for the cruise passenger terminal and cruise leisure and commercial area would cost ₱8.3 billion.

The agency is also intending to redevelop Boton Wharf into a 12.8-hectare terminal with a berthing length of 920 meters. The project will have five warehouses with a floor area of 5,000 square meters each. 

To complement these projects are the construction of administration offices, staging areas, access roads, rehabilitation of existing road networks, and the installation of shore power.

Meanwhile, Lee disclosed that while still in its preparatory stage, a multipurpose terminal will also be constructed at the Redondo Peninsula which will provide access and support to the area, with a total area of 30 hectares, a quay length of 600 meters, and a depth of 12 meters. It will involve the construction of warehouses, an administration building, truck parking, and weighing scale, offices, and facilities for workers. (MPD-SBMA)

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“Subic has great potential for int’l films” – Dir. Alabado, DOT IV-B

The country’s premier Freeport was affirmed “almost Hollywood-ready” during the 1st Sustainable Tourism Appreciation and Recognition (STAR) Awards night last September 11, 2025.

Department of Tourism Director Roberto Alabado III of the Office of Film and Sports Tourism and concurrent Region IV-B Director said that film production is not just about the beauty of the location. It also entails amenities and facilities that go with it.

 

“Subic has almost everything that is needed by a film production. Region 3 has a very big potential for Hollywood films, K-pop and soon Bollywood, which is a much bigger industry,” Alabado said during his inspirational speech.

 

He added that his office recently facilitated the filming of an A-list movie showcasing the sights and sounds, culture and destinations of the Philippines, which will have its premiere in Hollywood next year.

 

He emphasized that the film has the power to entice people to travel and see the film location in reality.

 

Meanwhile, eight tourism stakeholders in Central Luzon were recognized for their sustainable practices that are geared toward a greener future.

 

“The honorees we celebrate tonight have embraced the challenge of balancing development with responsibility, and progress with preservation. They are the trailblazers who remind us that sustainability is truly pragmatic, where decisions made on the ground, partnerships built with care, and actions that ripple across generations,” said Dr. Richard Daenos, Department of Tourism-Region 3 Director.

 

SBMA Tourism Department manager Mary Jamelle Camba shared that the 1st Sustainable Tourism Appreciation and Recognition (STAR) awards was created to celebrate and honor outstanding tourism establishments, organizations, and destinations in Central Luzon that are leading the way in sustainability.

 

Sustainable Sanctuary award celebrates recreation, health and wellness facilities that integrate eco-friendly operations, resource management and mindful guest experiences, and was awarded to ACEA Subic Beach Resort.

 

Salt of Sustainability award honors food and beverage establishments that elevate dining through sustainable practices by sourcing local, organic and ethically produced ingredients. These culinary leaders remind us that what we eat not only nourishes our bodies, but also sustain our farmers, our communities and our planet. The award was given to The Nest by the Sea of Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

 

Bridges of Change award recognizes tourism establishments whose corporate social responsibility programs create lasting positive impacts for local communities. These change-makers prove that empowering people build stronger, more resilient and more meaningful tourism for all. The award was given to The Lighthouse Marina Resort of Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

 

Resilient Destination award honors destinations and establishments that lead the way in climate resilience, disaster preparedness and risk reduction. These proactive leaders ensure the safety of visitors and communities, protect natural and cultural treasures, and keep tourism thriving despite challenges. The award was given to Municipal Tourism Office-LGU Guimba, Nueva Ecija.

 

Path to Purpose award honors tourism establishments that have overcome challenges, embraced innovations, and made remarkable progress in adopting responsible practices. Their stories remind us that the world of sustainability is not always easy, but it is always worthwhile. And it paves the way for others to follow. The award was given to Emerald Manor Hotel of Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

 

Green Stay Excellence award honors hotels, resorts, and lodging facilities that showcase outstanding commitment to environmental sustainability. These leaders have integrated green practices into their operations, proving that comfort and care for the environment can go hand in hand. The award was given to Mimosa Cityscapes, Inc. of Clark Freeport Zone.

 

Community-based Tourism Legacy award honors establishments that engage and empower local communities through inclusive and sustainable tourism initiatives. These trailblazers uplift their host communities while delivering meaningful visitor experiences, ensuring tourism benefits both people and places. The award was given to Balangay Apuy Community Tourguides of Malolos, Bulacan.

 

Green Tourism Champion award, the pinnacle recognition of the STAR awards, honors a tourism establishment that demonstrates exceptional leadership, innovation and unwavering commitment to sustainable tourism practices. These champions not only integrate sustainability into their operations, they also influence entire communities and industries to embrace a greener, more responsible future. The award was given to Pulong Kabyawan Agricultural Farm of Pulilan, Bulacan.

 

“From protecting natural sanctuaries, celebrating culture, and empowering communities, to driving innovation, resilience and excellence in tourism services, these categories honor the full spectrum of what it means to be a sustainable tourism champion,” Camba said. (MPD-SBMA) 

 

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3rd Central Luzon Sustainable Tourism Summit in Subic Bay Freeport concluded

This premier Freeport recently concluded the 3rd Central Luzon Sustainable Tourism Summit at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC) last September 12, 2025.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño lauded organizers and participants for the resounding success of the three-day event, which ran from September 10 to 12, 2025.

 

Themed “Building Green Legacies: Sustaining Nature, Celebrating Culture, and Empowering Industry,” the summit was well-attended by business leaders and communities who plan to shape the Freeport and the rest of Central Luzon into a greener, more inclusive future.

 

Aliño gave his presentation on “Sustainable Subic: Tracking the Race to Zero,” which discussed the plight of Subic Bay Freeport’s bid to become the first carbon-neutral economic zone in the country.

 

He said that the agency’s first move was to map out the SBMA’s pathway to carbon neutrality, which entailed turning over of solar-assisted electric vehicle charging stations for the e-buses, and regular community-based projects and activities such as coastal cleanups and collecting recyclables.

 

“We aim to make sustainable Subic stakeholder engagements, initiatives, and activities like these a way of life here in Subic Bay,” he added.

 

During the summit, distinguished guests namely, Senator Joseph Victor Ejercito, Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Maria Esperanza Frasco, DOT Director for Office of Film and Sports Tourism and concurrent OIC Region IV-B Director Roberto P. Alabado III, DOT Region III Director Richard G. Daenos, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region III Executive Director Engr. Ralph C. Pablo, all expressed their full support for the summit.

 

The three-day activity included a trade expo of local products, various ecotours of “green” destinations, and lectures on “Heritage Conservation: Living Traditions in the Modern World” by UP Cebu’s Dr. Laya B. Gonzales, and “From Relics to Relevance: Museum as Custodians of Archeology, History, and Heritage for Sustainable Development” by National Museum of the Philippines Dr. Michael P. Canilao.

 Also, a lecture on “Green Infrastructure: Designing Cities that Breathe” was given by Philippine Green Building Initiative Arch. Michaela Rosette M. Santos-Tayag, followed by “From Plate to Planet: Food waste, Recycling and the Power of Segregation” by Zed Avecilla of the Philippine Alliance for Recycling and Materials Sustainability (PARMS), Rina Papio and Nikki Sevilla of the Philippine Alliance for Sustainable Solutions (PASS).

 

The summit wrapped up with more lectures from Philippine Institute for Development Studies Dr. John Paulo Rivera on “Youth in Sustainability: Shaping tomorrow’s Green Leaders” and “Sustainable Tourism: Protecting Underwater Cultural Wonders while Welcoming the World” by National Museum of the Philippines Curator Bobby Orillaneda.

 

The entire event was highlighted by the Sustainable Tourism Appreciation and Recognition (STAR) Awards to honor champions of sustainability in the tourism industry. (MPD-SBMA)

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SBMA Port Operations surpasses ₱1B year-on-year revenue generation

The Port Operations of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) under the leadership of SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño surpassed its year-on-year performance in terms of revenue generation, achieving ₱1.023 billion from January to July of 2025.

SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator (SDA) for Port Operations Ronnie R. Yambao stated that the amount also represents a 4.8 percent increase compared to the ₱976 million in revenue recorded during the same period in 2024.

Yambao added that this revenue milestone is attributed to the 18 percent increase in importation of containerized cargoes of assorted food products and agricultural products, as well as a 2.6 percent increase in exportation of containerized cargoes.

 

He also noted the increase in cargo handling services due to the surge of non-containerized cargo (dry bulk) such as rice, which is up by 437 percent, and timber, which is up by 18 percent. This also includes payment of SBMA shares from joint venture partners, cargo handling, and miscellaneous tariff adjustments, as well as efficient management of port operations.

 

By the end of the year, the agency is projecting ₱1.75 billion in revenue earnings, which is 2.77 percent higher than the ₱1.706 billion earned in 2024.

 

“This will be realized by the policies approved by the SBMA Board of Directors, increasing trade volume growth through aggressive global and domestic marketing campaigns and creating alliances with local and international ports around the world,” Yambao said.

 

The Port Operations has committed to generating ₱3 billion in revenues by 2030, and ₱10 billion by 2050, taking advantage of the national government’s thrust to bolster high-impact investments through the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC) by port expansion projects and other Green Initiatives.

 

“In fact, the Government has already appropriated ₱100-million budget to procure Shore Power Connection Facility in this premier port, coupled by the DOTR’s aggressive support in the implementation of the Subic-Clark-Manila-Batangas Railway Project with the assistance of the USAID and other financing institutions,” he added.

 

The Port Operations team under Ronnie Yambao, Senior Deputy Administrator for Operations, is led by Atty. Martin Kristoffer Roman, Deputy Administrator for Ports, with Engr. Zharrex Santos, General Manager of the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA), Jerome M. Martinez, General Manager of the Seaport Department, and Joy Quito, Officer-in-Charge of the Trade Facilitation and Compliance Department (TFCD). (MPD-SBMA)

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DOLE launches “Benteng Bigas Meron na” program in Subic Bay Freeport; benefits 300 workers

Around 300 qualified workers were among the first wave of beneficiaries of the “Benteng Bigas Meron (BBM) na” program launched by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño recalled that when President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. appointed him to lead the agency, he was asked to “take care of Subic Bay workers.”

“Here in Subic Bay, we regard our workers as the bloodline of our economy, and I’m glad that this program would greatly help the minimum wage earners here,” Aliño said. 

The BBM program, in coordination with the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Labor Department, was launched yesterday, September 4, 2025, at Cresc Incorporated in the Moonbay Marina, Central Business District here.

SBMA Labor Department manager and OIC-Deputy Administrator for Legal Affairs Atty. Melvin Varias, said that the DOLE-led program aims to bring ₱20-per-kilo rice to the workforce of the Subic Bay Freeport. 

Varias added that the program here, spearheaded by DOLE Chief Labor and Employment Officer Reynante Lugtu, is a flagship program of President Ferdinand “Bong Bong” Marcos Jr. to stabilize rice prices and make basic goods more accessible. 

Kazutomo Murata, Cresc Inc. president, thanked DOLE and SBMA for being chosen as among the first companies to benefit from the program. 

“I am glad that you have President Marcos, who loves you. We don’t have this in Japan,” said Kazutomo. 

Meanwhile, Aliño added that aside from the government programs, the agency has three projects that would benefit the workers, namely: dormitories, to bring workers closer to their place of work; development of the Mini Golf Course into a park, to provide a place for unwinding; and the e-bus, which the agency is working on at least a very minimal fare, if not free. 

The beneficiary workers were given a maximum of ten kilos each, and will be paid through salary deduction by the Cresc Inc. administration.  

Cresc Incorporated is a leading consumable printer ink manufacturer based in Japan. The company is the second company in the Subic Freeport in the printer refilling trade. (MPD-SBMA)

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PBBM leads inauguration of HD Hyundai shipyard in Subic

Shipbuilding makes a grand comeback in the Philippine maritime industry.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led the inauguration ceremony of HD Hyundai Heavy Industries Philippines Inc. at the Agila Southern Yard, Subic Freeport Zone on September 2, 2025 —a landmark event that marks the revival of the country’s shipbuilding enterprise.

The ceremony formally launched Hyundai’s operations in the Philippines, reinforcing the country’s position as a strategic hub for maritime and industrial growth in the Asia-Pacific region.

A symbolic steel-cutting ceremony marked the commencement of construction on the shipyard’s first vessel, signaling the beginning of a new era for local shipbuilding and engineering capabilities.

The President’s presence underscores the Philippine government’s strong policy support and commitment to attracting long-term, high-impact investments in key industries. 

Long-term employment

In his message, Marcos Jr. emphasized the industry’s capacity to expand operations and provide long-term employment opportunities.

“With Hyundai Heavy Industries investing in Subic, our shipyard capacity will significantly increase from 1.3 million to 2.5 million deadweight tons, from handling four to five massive oil tankers to about eight of those ships,” the President said. 

He also highlighted government programs aimed at preparing more workers for the sector. 

The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has partnered with Hyundai to operate a training center in Subic, producing its first 24 welding graduates now employed at the yard, while additional training slots have been made available to maintain a steady supply of skilled workers.

Korean Ambassador to the Philippines Lee Sang-hwa said the project reflects the strengthening economic ties between the two countries.

“Today’s event is, above all, a victory for the Philippines. It is a tangible result of President Marcos’ tireless efforts to attract foreign investment through the CREATE More [Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises to Maximize Opportunities for Reinvigorating the Economy] Act,” Lee said.

He added that Hyundai is projected to employ 7,000 to 8,000 workers in the coming years, calling the initiative a “powerful tripartite partnership” wherein Korea contributes shipbuilding technology, the United States provides financial support, and the Philippines offers skilled manpower and a strategic location.
 

Global shipbuilding hub 

HD Hyundai Heavy Industries CEO Kim Sung-joon also emphasized the Philippines’ potential to become a global hub for shipbuilding.

“Fortunately, the Philippines possesses all the ideal conditions to become a major player in the shipbuilding industry—with a blessed maritime environment, a young and highly skilled workforce, and the committed support of the government,” he said.

For many, the reopening represents more than industrial revival—it means jobs close to home.

Marlon Eugenio, a former employee of the Hanjin Shipyard, expressed his gratitude.

“Nagpapasalamat ako sa ating pamahalaan lalong lalo na kay Presidente Marcos na nagbigay ng opportunity ulit na mabuksan ang pinakamalaking shipyard. Nabigyan muli ang mga kapwa ko worker na magkaroon ng trabaho at magkaroon ng panibagong talento sa paggawa ng barko,” he said.

HD Hyundai’s Subic operations will cover 200 hectares under a 10-year lease with Agila Subic, a Cerberus portfolio company.

The facility is set to begin full operations in January 2026, including both shipbuilding and offshore wind platform construction. (PCO/PIA Region 3-Zambales)

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SBMA bags “Best Ecological Solid Waste Management Practices” award

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) bagged the Best Ecological Solid Waste Management Practices award during the Environmental Summit 2025 held at Widus Hotel, Clark, Pampanga on August 29, 2025.

With the theme “Ending Global Plastic Pollution,” the summit organized by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) Central Luzon aims to honor defenders of environmental protection and sustainable solutions.

According to SBMA Ecology Center Officer-in-Charge Rossell Abuyo, the said award recognizes the commitment and dedication of the department’s “outstanding solid waste enforcement and implementation in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.”

She said that one of the programs that has left a mark on the SBMA’s credibility as the Best Ecological Solid Waste Management Practices is the Recyclables Collection Event (RCE), which is held semi-annually. 

She added that various hazardous wastes that have been collected during the week-long 16^th RCE range from used oil, waste from electronics and electrical equipment, used lead acid batteries (ULAB), oily water, used cooking oil, oil-contaminated materials, busted fluorescent bulbs (BFLs), busted LED bulbs, expired medicines, sharps, and contaminated containers. 

Some of the recyclables collected during the event included used papers, cartons, PET bottles, other plastic materials, used slippers, tin cans, aluminum, copper, and other metals.

The recyclables collected reached 10,669.74 kilograms, with materials collected by 142 donors, including SBMA Departments, SBF companies, and residents. 

The agency also holds Recycling Day in Subic Bay Freeport Housing Areas on Saturdays to collect all recyclables. The collection activity started last July 6, 2024, targeting SBF residents from Binictican, Kalayaan, and Cubi areas. 

“Efficient management of our solid waste will also serve as our adaptation strategy to help combat climate change. Championing waste management is one of the pillars to achieve our goal for a carbon-neutral Subic Bay Freeport,” Abuyo said. (MPD-SBMA) 

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Legacy Awards 2025 honors SBMA as Outstanding Government Agency

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) was conferred as an Outstanding Government Agency for Special Economic Zone Management by the Legacy Icon Awards during the Gala Awards Presentation event held at the Grand Ballroom of Okada Manila in Parañaque City on August 15, 2025. 

 According to SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño, the award not only solidifies the agency's sterling performance as a driver of economic progress, but more importantly, as a stable source of employment for the 166,000-strong workforce from various municipalities and provinces within and contiguous to the zone. 

“Our mandate has never changed. We continue to employ the Filipino masses while generating income that the national government can utilize in building a better and brighter Bagong Pilipinas. What has changed is our desire to do more,” he said.

SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator for Support Services Atty. Ramon O. Agregado received the award on behalf of Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño

During the Legacy Awards 2025 Gala night, together with OIC Deputy Administrator for Corporate Communications Armina Belleza C. Llamas, Lex Magrata, and Carlos Andres from the SBMA Corporate Communications group.

“We accept this [award] as a constant reminder for us to improve our craft to provide excellent service and the best quality of life for our stakeholders,” Agregado said during his acceptance speech. 

He also shared the award and recognized the SBMA employees, the Freeport workers, and the previous leaders who navigated the agency, the “building blocks of this achievement.”

The award entry for the judges’ evaluation was the 2024 accomplishment report of the Agency, where dividends remitted to the national coffers totaled ₱3.07 billion, ranking 7th among the top 10 largest remittances from government-owned and controlled corporations.

Additionally, revenue shares in 2024, which were distributed by the SBMA to seven municipalities and a city contiguous to the Freeport, totaled ₱347 million.

Infrastructure projects at Subic Freeport are focused on enhancing the quality of life for its stakeholders. 

Initiatives include the socialized housing project known as Subic Bay Residencias, a new dormitory, the introduction of E-vehicles, and various ongoing enhancements throughout the Freeport. These developments offer glimpses into Subic's strategic development roadmap.

 

Dubbed “Legacy Awards 2025: Celebrating Excellence, Resilience, and Social Responsibility,” the Legacy Awards aim to recognize the nation’s most esteemed icons, trailblazers, and visionaries, not only for their accomplishments and legacies, but also for the inspiration they provide to individuals in the community. 

More than a celebration, the Legacy Awards 2025 is a living tribute to the spirit, resilience, and creativity of the Filipino people, inspiring today and shaping tomorrow. (MPD-SBMA) 

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