SBMA and Port of Kaohsiung Ink Landmark Sister Port Agreement

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has officially entered into a Sister Port Agreement with the Port of Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s premier maritime hub, marking a transformative step toward making Subic Bay a world-class, eco-friendly gateway in Southeast Asia. 

The agreement was formalized on February 25, 2026, at the Port of Kaohsiung Cruise Terminal. It was signed by SBMA Director Patrick Jean O. Gonzales, representing Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño, and Taiwan International Ports Corp. (TIPC) Chairman Chou Yung-hui. 

The ceremony was witnessed by key officials, including Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-Mai and SBMA Deputy Administrator for Port Operations Atty. Martin Kristoffer Roman, signaling high-level commitment from both regions to foster maritime synergy. 

A Blueprint for Green Maritime Operations 

Central to the pact is Subic’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality. By leveraging Kaohsiung’s expertise as an award-winning "EcoPort," the SBMA aims to implement advanced green technologies, including shore-side power and sustainable waste management systems. 

"Our collaboration with the Port of Kaohsiung is a cornerstone of our 'Green Subic' initiative," said SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator for Port Operations Ronnie Yambao. 

"By adopting their proven models for sustainable infrastructure, we are ensuring that Subic remains competitive in a global market that increasingly demands environmentally responsible logistics." 

Boosting Regional Trade and Tourism 

The agreement establishes a framework for immediate cooperation in several high-impact areas: 

• Logistics Efficiency: Promoting increased shipping frequency and direct routes to lower costs for Philippine and Taiwanese exporters. 
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• Cruise Industry Growth: Collaborating on terminal management to position Subic as a key destination in the Asian cruise circuit. 
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• Expertise Sharing: Formalizing exchanges in port development, security management, and digital transformation. 

Expanding Global Connectivity 

The Port of Kaohsiung becomes Subic’s third international sister port, joining the Port of Virginia (USA) and the Port of Eilat (Israel). This alliance is part of a broader push by the SBMA to integrate the Freeport into the world's most efficient maritime networks, with future talks planned for hubs in San Diego, Bangkok, and Ho Chi Minh City. (SNL)