Sanyo Denki donates two Hydroponic System units to SBMA

In its effort to encourage healthy eating habits, Sanyo Denki Philippines Inc., a Japanese electronics manufacturer here, donated two units of Hydroponic Systems to the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA).

Sanyo Denki Philippines Inc. Director Yosuke Takeuchi explained that these Hydroponic System units grow fresh, chemical-free vegetables in a safe and healthy environment, while they are being tested in real-world scenario with the government agency as a test bed.  

The two units installed at Building 255 are currently growing Black Rose Lettuce which will be distributed to SBMA employees once ready for harvest.

Takeuchi, along with Sanyo Denki Philippines Inc. President and CEO Hirokazu Takeuchi, presented the two units to SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño on January 22, 2026.

Aliño expressed his gratitude to the two officials, acknowledging that these Hydroponic System units can be adapted to the planned dormitory and residential areas proposed for Freeport employees to ensure augmented food security.

“With the buildings of the SBMA running on solar power, electricity for these Hydroponic System units will not be an issue. I hope that the testing of these units would become successful so that companies inside the Subic Freeport would adopt it for the sake of their employees,” Aliño said.

The Hydroponic System introduced by Sanyo Denki Philippines uses San Ace fans, a product made by the company itself. The two units have Black Rose Lettuce currently being grown, with the capacity to grow leaf radish, parsley, Mizuna, coriander, romaine lettuce, green and iceberg lettuce.

The Hydroponic System is a Deep Flow Technique type that has dimensions similar to a large cabinet and weighs 61 kilograms without water. The system uses 220-volt electricity, which consumes approximately 0.3 kilowatt-hour, has a capacity for 90 plants, and a water tank capacity of 60 liters.

The lettuce grown in the Hydroponic System may be harvested after 20 days. (MPD-SBMA)

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SBMA recognized for its best performance in PSA survey

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) was recognized for its best performance in the 2024 Quarterly Survey of the Philippine Business and Industry (QSPBI) conducted by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

 SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño accepted the trophy for bagging the 1^st place in Overall Performance from PSA Zambales Chief Statistical Specialist Norman Bundalian during the flag raising ceremony in front of Administration Building 229 on January 19, 2026.

Aside from the trophy for 1^st place in overall performance, Aliño also accepted Certificates of Recognition for bagging first place in Timeliness, second place in Quality, and a Certificate of Appreciation for the SBMA's "valuable contribution to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) in the conduct of its establishment-based surveys, which generate essential statistics for economic planning and analysis.”

Aliño expressed his appreciation of the awards accorded by the PSA as it indicates that the Agency is on track.

Planning and Development Office (PDO) Acting Department Manager Engr. Lilibeth S. Baza explained that the citation was given following the 2025 Provincial Stakeholders’/ Respondents’ Forum on Establishment-Based Surveys held at the Subic Bay Travelers Hotel in Subic Bay Freeport on January 13, 2026.

Baza said that the survey is a crucial nationwide survey conducted by PSA to collect data on revenue, employment, and compensation for key Philippine industries that support national accounts, economic indicators, and monetary policies to help the government and businesses understand the dynamics of the country's economic performance, which will be a basis for better planning and decision-making.

In the 2024 QSPBI, the Q1 2024 Business Expectations Survey (BES) findings showed optimism for hiring and expansion, especially in manufacturing, while later reports indicated rising capacity utilization by late 2024.

These surveys track key metrics such as employment, investment plans, and production, helping shape national economic policies, and are released periodically by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the PSA to complement overall economic growth figures.

Aliño disclosed that some of the 2024 Performance Highlights include the processing of ₱20.63 billion in new investments, a 107.17% increase from the previous year. The number of new investors rose to 159, up from 131 in 2023.

He added that the total workforce rose to 164,400 employees in 2024, reflecting a 4.8% increase. The manufacturing sector was a primary driver, growing from 21,433 workers in 2023 to 27,484 in 2024.

He also said that the SBMA reported total operating revenues of ₱1.706 billion for the full year 2024. The authority also turned over ₱1.465 billion in dividends to the national government based on its 2024 earnings. (MPD-SBMA) 

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Filipino Shipmates monument inaugurated in Subic Bay Freeport

The Filipino Shipmates monument, located along Waterfront Road, Subic Bay Freeport Zone (SBFZ), was inaugurated on January 14, 2026. 

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño recognized the United States Sailors Alliance of the Philippines (USSAP) for paving the way for the construction of a commemorative monument of Filipino-American naval history and friendship, as well as the strong bond between them. 

“Here in Subic Bay, a place rich in maritime history, it is fitting that we honor their contributions. Subic has long been a bridge connecting our two nations, and today, this monument shows the strengthening of this bond even further. It tells future generations that Filipinos played an essential role in safeguarding peace and freedom across the seas,” he said.

Led by the USSAP, the monument was built to symbolize the dedication of Filipino sailors who were recruited by the United States between 1901 and 1991 in the Philippines.

According to the USSAP, over 35,000 Filipinos were recruited through centers like the US naval bases at Subic Bay and Sangley Point during this period, leaving a significant legacy of service. 

The USSAP has been instrumental in preserving and recognizing this history, including the funding and presentation of a Filipino Shipmate statue to honor these sailors in Olongapo City.

Olongapo City Mayor Atty. Rolen Paulino Jr., Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) Director Rolen Paulino, officials from the USSAP, and the US Embassy in the Philippines were present during the unveiling and ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The USSAP is strongly committed to celebrating the deep history and contributions of US-Filipino sailors, especially in Subic Bay, Olongapo, where many were recruited, honoring significant personalities such as Medal of Honor recipient Telesforo Trinidad, and recognizing Filipino contributions to U.S. maritime forces.

The Filipino Shipmate monument memorializes their services. (MPD-SBMA) 

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Nike opens biggest Southeast Asian outlet in Subic Freeport

Subic Bay Freeport has marked another major retail milestone with the opening of Nike’s biggest outlet in Southeast Asia.

Maguire Group Holdings Inc., through its Philippine retail partner Unite Stores, officially opened the Nike Unite Subic Outlet Center at the Marshalling Yard along Argonaut Highway, Subic Bay Freeport Zone on January 15, 2026. 

The opening was led by Unite Stores Chairman Christian Monteron, together with Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño.

The launch further strengthens Subic Bay Freeport’s position as a premier shopping and investment destination, drawing both local and international brands while boosting tourism, employment, and economic activity in the zone. (thevoicenewsweekly)

Photo c/o Fun-tastic Subic Bay Facebook page

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SBMA retakes control of Grande Island due to lease violations

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has resumed possession of Grande Island after ending its lease agreement with GFTG Holdings Corporation.

SBMA officials said the move followed a decision by the authority’s board to terminate the contract after the company failed to fulfill agreed development commitments.

A pre-termination notice was issued earlier, giving the lessee a fixed period to vacate the property before enforcement measures were carried out.

The takeover was completed earlier this month after SBMA served a formal repossession notice and proceeded with implementation following the holiday period.

GFTG has since filed a request seeking the revival of its lease, which is now undergoing review by a board-level committee.

The island drew heightened public scrutiny last year after the arrest of several Chinese nationals accused of conducting unauthorized surveillance activities.

Investigators said the suspects allegedly used drones and electronic devices to gather images and data related to naval operations in Subic Bay.

Grande Island’s strategic location overlooking key maritime passages has since fueled security discussions, including proposals to place the area under tighter government control. (thechronicle.com)

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SBMA, SBF stakeholders hold 2nd Prayer Breakfast

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) gathered stakeholders to hold its 2nd Subic Bay Freeport (SBF) Prayer Breakfast with leaders of various religious sectors from surrounding localities at the Mini Golf Course on January 6, 2026.

 “This Prayer Breakfast is our humble acknowledgement that every plan, every decision, and every success must begin with faith and surrender to His will,” SBMA Chairman and Administrator Engr. Eduardo Jose L. Aliño said. 

“Amid our responsibilities and challenges, we pause to seek God’s wisdom, strength, and guidance. We come together as one community, different in roles and beliefs, yet united in our trust in the One who leads, protects, and provides,” he added.

San Roque Chaplain Father Emmanuel Montes, Saalam Advocacy Group Chapter President Ustadz Sam Maharum, and Bishop Noel Pantoja of the Evangelical Church were among the religious leaders who led the ecumenical mass during the said Prayer Breakfast.

The SBF Prayer Breakfast is patterned after the Philippine National Prayer Breakfast, an annual event where leaders from government, business, and faith communities gather at the Malacañang Palace grounds to pray for the nation, emphasizing faith, unity, integrity, and service.

Inspired by the U.S. National Prayer Breakfast and founded by Gil Puyat and Francisco Ortigas Jr. in 1975, the most recent event was held on November 18, 2024, led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

The SBF Prayer Breakfast serves as a platform for leaders and local governments to set aside political and ideological differences and come together in prayer and seek guidance for the nation’s progress.

Chairman Aliño further said, “As we move forward into the year ahead, may God bless the work in our hands, guide the leaders of this Freeport Zone, and grant us clarity in every decision we make. May this time of prayer renew our commitment to the greater good; not only for the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, but for the people and communities we are called to serve.”

The 1st SBF Prayer Breakfast was held last January 13, 2025, and will continue to be held annually in Subic Bay Freeport, as a time out from political and ideological differences, and come together in prayer to seek guidance for the nation’s progress. (MPD-SBMA) 

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DOT certifies 2 Subic Freeport hotels for passing Halal standard

The Department of Tourism-Region 3 (DOT3) has awarded two hotels here for passing the standard of a Halal-friendly hotel. 

DOT3 Regional Director Richard Daenos, together with SBMA Tourism Manager Mary Jamelle Camba, handed the certificates of recognition to representatives of The Aurora Subic Hotel and The Mansion Garden Hotel during the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) flag-raising ceremony at the administration building on December 22, 2025.

Aurora General Manager Rhett M. Villaruz and Mansion Garden Hotel Operations Manager Sheanelle F. Calayag received the certificates for their compliance with the requirements of DOT Memorandum Circular 2024-003, which provides the Amended Guidelines for Recognizing Muslim-Friendly Accommodation Establishments (MFAEs). 

A Muslim-friendly accommodation offers prayer facilities (Qibla direction, mats, and prayer rooms), Halal food options (certified kitchens/ meals), and amenities such as water-friendly toilets and culturally sensitive staff training from official certifying bodies, including CrescentRating and local tourism departments.

Camba cited that the award is a testament to the capabilities of hotel establishments here in handling the various needs of tourists from different religious affiliations, adding that Freeport is a viable tourist destination for clientele from diverse cultures and beliefs.

She added that certain key features required by the DOT in Muslim-friendly establishments include dedicated prayer rooms, Qibla direction markers in rooms, prayer mats (Sejjadah), Quran available, Islamic TV channels, Halal-certified kitchens with separate utensils, and Halal minibar options, or menus clearly marking Halal dishes. 

She also mentioned that Megaworld Hotels & Resorts was also certified under this guideline.

Other features include water-friendly toilets (bidet sprays/ water source for ablution/ Wudu), and staff trained in Muslim customs, availability of nearby mosque information, and culturally sensitive service. (MPD-SBMA)

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SBMA champions 2025 FOI awards among GOCCs

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) emerged as champion in the recently concluded 2025 Freedom of Information (FOI) Awards held at The Bellevue Manila in Alabang, Muntinlupa City, on November 28. 

SBMA bagged the FOI Champion Award in the Government-Owned and –Controlled Corporation (GOCC) category, along with the Philippine Guarantee Corporation (PGC) in the 1^st Runner-Up spot and the Philippine Charity and Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) in the 2nd Runner-Up. 

 

SBMA Office Services Department (OSD) OIC-Manager and FOI Receiving Officer (FRO) Jaime H. Menor, Jr., with his staff FRO Angelo M. Mañalac and FRO Randy D. Canlas, received the award on behalf of SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño, marking a strong year for transparency and public accountability among government institutions. 

 

Aliño lauded this accolade, noting that it is a meaningful affirmation of the agency’s commitment to openness, proactive information sharing, and active public engagement, and emphasized that transparency remains a cornerstone of effective and democratic governance.

 

Themed, “KALIKASAN: Knowledge Access for Local and International Key Actions on Sustainability, Accountability, and Nature,” the awards ceremony underscored the crucial role of transparent public information in promoting environmental stewardship, good governance, and sustainable development, signifying a strong year for transparency and public accountability among government institutions.

 

Aside from the agency’s award, Canlas was also recognized as one of the Best FOI Receiving Officers in the Philippines, distinguishing himself among frontliners nationwide who ensure efficient, transparent, and citizen-friendly access to public information.

 

The FOI Awards is an annual initiative recognizing outstanding government agencies and individuals who champion transparency and uphold the public’s right to information under the FOI Program. (MPD-SBMA) 

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SBMA makes it to Green Destinations 2025 Top 100 stories

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority’s (SBMA) entry, the Recyclables Collection Program, was hailed as one of the 2025 Top 100 Stories on the global recognition list from the Netherlands-based organization Green Destinations.

According to SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño, the agency was recognized in the “Good Practice Stories” in sustainable tourism from around the world for the Recyclables Collection Program.

The winning story, “Recyclables Collection Program: SBMA’s Strategy to Implement Circular Economy,” depicts how the agency implements its circular economy strategy primarily through its flagship program, the Recyclables Collection Event (RCE), which is held biannually. It involves collaboration among stakeholders to manage waste, raise funds for charity, and achieve carbon-neutrality goals. 

“This is the first international award of the SBMA for its sustainability efforts. The RCE is part of our bid to make the Subic Bay Freeport Zone the first carbon-neutral economic zone in the Philippines,” he added.

The Green Destinations Top 100 Stories award was presented during the Sustainable Destinations Forum 2025 on October 28-29 at Expo City Dubai, where the ceremony celebrating stories from around the globe was held. 

OIC-Senior Deputy Administrator for Regulatory Group Amethya Dela Llana cited that the primary goal of the Recyclables Program is to achieve a 30 percent reduction in emissions by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2040. The initiative also aims to make Subic Bay Freeport into the first Green Port City in the country.

Dela Llana said that the RCE is a multi-faceted approach that transforms waste management from a disposal problem into an integrated system that creates resources, fosters community involvement, and supports social causes, embodying the principles of a circular economy.

SBMA Ecology Center OIC Rossell L. Abuyo added, “The RCE is an event where SBMA departments, Subic Freeport companies, and residents donate or sell segregated common recyclables such as paper, plastics, metals, and hazardous wastes such as used oil, e-waste, busted bulbs, and expired medicines.” 

She added that proceeds from the sales of these materials are often donated to local charitable institutions, namely the Missionaries of Charity house, which is a shelter for abandoned seniors, and Bantay Bata 163. There were also instances when the funds were used to provide grocery packs for outsourced utility workers. 

The Green Destinations 2025 Top 100 Stories list highlights sustainable tourism initiatives from around the world, with winning stories announced at the Green Destinations Story Awards ceremony in March 2025. 

Del Carmen of Siargao Islands, Philippines also won an award for its transformation from mangrove cutting to a Ramsar site, or a wetland acclaimed as being of "international importance," and the Cayo District, Belize, for its sustainable tourism projects. 

Other notable award categories were Destination Management, Nature and Scenery, Environment and Climate, Culture and Tradition, Thriving Communities, and Business and Marketing. (MPD-SBMA) 

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Subic Freeport’s 10 Outstanding workers in 2025 named

The Search for the Ten Outstanding Freeport Workers of 2025, co-organized by the Subic Bay Workforce Development Foundation, Inc. (SBWDFI) and the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), hailed its awardees in a ceremony held at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center on Wednesday, November 26. 

Now in its 24^th year, this year's recognition rites, themed “Dakila ka, Manggagawa,” centered on the various individual achievements of the honorees who have uplifted this premier Freeport’s reputation as a bastion of commendable employment practices that are achieved through collaboration with industry partners.

 

“Today we celebrate the strength and excellence of the Subic Bay Freeport workforce. The ten Outstanding Freeport Workers embody discipline, professionalism, and dedication—values that drive the continuous growth of our community,” SBWDFI president and SBMA Labor Department manager, Atty. Melvin Varias said. 

 

According to the chairman of the Board of Judges, Philippine National Police-Olongapo City Public Information Officer, P/Lt. Mary Ann Sadaba, the Board received a total of 21 nominations, 12 in the supervisory positions and nine in the rank and file positions, each demonstrating remarkable contributions to the success and growth of the Freeport. Then, “carefully evaluated each candidate based on several key categories.” 

 

The 2025 Ten Outstanding Freeport Workers were Rowena M. Picardal of the Philippine Coastal Storage and Pipeline Corporation; Charrie Mae M. Borja of Allied Care Experts (ACE) Medical Center Baypointe, Inc.; Abraham S. Ayson of Wistron Infocomm (Philippines) Corporation; Darren N. Dacanay of PTT Philippines Corporation; Maureen S. Dela Cruz of PlayAsia Support Subic Ltd. Inc.; Katrina Anne R. Valenzuela of PlayAsia Support Subic Ltd. Inc.; Jenny Y. Dela Cruz of Royal Duty Free Shops, Inc.; Lex Byron D. Magrata of the SBMA Public Relations Department; Alvin A. Dagdagan of the Philippine Coastal Storage and Pipeline Corporation; and Alpha Eris M. Reyes of Allied Care Experts (ACE) Medical Center Baypointe, Inc. 

 

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño, who was the guest of honor, also rendered his congratulatory message to the awardees. 

 

“Sa ating mga Outstanding Freeport Workers, you are not just valued. You are essential. Ang inyong talento, dedikasyon at sipag ang nagpapatakbo sa puso ng Subic Bay Freeport Zone,” he added.  

 

He also lauded the SBWDFI, which for 24 years has been honoring individuals who do not simply perform their duties, but uplift industries, inspire peers, and strengthen the very foundation of the community. 

 

The Search for the Ten Outstanding Freeport Workers honors individuals from various Freeport locators for their excellence in their respective fields of expertise and for their significant contributions towards achieving productivity and industrial harmony within the freeport. (MPD-SBMA) 

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SBMA partners honored in 1st Green Anchor Awards

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), in collaboration with Subic Bay International Terminals (SBITC), honoured its port stakeholders in the first Green Anchor Awards at the ACEA Subic Beach Resort on November 24, 2025.

The Green Anchor Awards is SBMA’s flagship recognition program for its partners in the port and logistics sector. 

Coinciding with the SBMA’s anniversary celebration, the recognition rites honoured companies and organizations for their cargo contributions that drive commerce, sustainable practices that protect the environment, and partnerships that foster a thriving business environment in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

“Green Anchor Awards aim to celebrate freeport companies that choose to go beyond compliance; those who innovate, invest, and adapt their operations because they understand that sustainability is not just a requirement, but a responsibility," said SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño. 

"It is also smart economics as the world moves toward greener value chains, cleaner shipping, circular waste practices, and low-emission operations. The ports that lead in sustainability will be the ones most competitive in the future,” Aliño added.

The Emerald Awards were given to 15 awardees who have made a significant impact through the generation of cargo volume and the reliable delivery of essential goods that sustain communities.

These companies include: San Miguel Foods Corporation; FLS Group Philippines; Worldwide Logistics Group, Philippines; Yokohama Tire Philippines Incorporated; Nestle Philippines Incorporated; Juken Sangyo Philippines Corporation; Philippine Resins Industries Incorporated; HLD Clark Steel Pipe Company Incorporated; Datian Subic Shoes Incorporated; Ecossential Foods Corporation; Maersk Lines Limited; Evergreen Lines; SITC Container Lines; Mediterranean Shipping Company; and CMA-CGM Lines.

The Emerald Special Awards were given to five companies for their exemplary performance in implementing effective programs, strategies, and CSR activities that promote sustainable practices. 

The awardees were Subic Bay Freeport Grains Terminal Services Incorporated; Philippine Coastal Storage and Pipeline Corporation; Pure Petroleum Corporation; Subic Bay International Terminals Corporation- ICTSI Subic Incorporated; and United Auctioneers Incorporated.

Meanwhile, the Partners in Progress Awards were presented to private organizations and government institutions, “whose steadfast collaboration has been instrumental in shaping the Subic Bay Port community.” 

These were the Association of International Shipping Lines Incorporated (AISL); Alliance of Concerned Truck Owners and Organization  (ACTOO); Philippine Chamber of Customs Brokers, Inc. (PCCBI), Subic-Clark Chapter / Brokers Association; Bureau of Customs (BOC) Port of Subic; and the Bureau of Internal Revenue.

According to Senior Deputy Administrator (SDA) for Port Operations Ronnie Yambao, the Green Anchor Awards is a pioneer recognition platform in the country established by a GOCC to celebrate champions of trade growth and sustainability initiatives in support of its vision of a Green Port City. 

“Subic Bay has been blessed with one of the most unique environmental landscapes in the country—waters that sustain marine life, forests that protect biodiversity, and a coastline that continues to drive economic activity. As stewards of this bay, we have a duty to ensure that development does not come at the expense of future generations,” SBMA Chairman Aliño said. 

For his part, SBITC Executive Director Philippe Baudry said, “As a partner of the SBMA in this event, we share SBMA’s vision of a greener Subic Bay and believe collaboration is a key to lasting impact. Our efforts here form part of ICTSI’s (International Container Terminal Services, Inc.) global sustainability. Together, let us continue to anchor our efforts on green practices for the benefit of our communities and future generations.” (MPD-SBMA)

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SBMA gets DOE, PNOC Solar EV Station, blessing of E-Buses & EV Stations held

The Department of Energy (DOE) formally turned over a Solar-Assisted Electric Vehicle Charging Station (EVCS) to the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), marking another important milestone in the government’s efforts to promote cleaner, smarter, and more sustainable transport and energy solutions nationwide.

The turnover ceremony, held in Taguig City, was led in by DOE Undersecretary Mario C. Marasigan, who represented Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin. He was joined by Director Patrick T. Aquino, CESO III of the DOE’s Energy Utilization Management Bureau (EUMB). Representing SBMA were Engr. Marco A. Estabillo, Deputy Administrator for the Public Works and Technical Services Group, and Engr. Jomel M. Libut, Officer-in-Charge of the Maintenance and Transportation Department. The event was also witnessed by Mr. Ronald R. Estilles, President and CEO of the Philippine National Oil Company Renewables Corporation (PNOC RC).

Developed by the DOE and PNOC-RC under the Government Energy Management Program (GEMP), the Solar-Assisted EVCS serves as a model facility for integrating renewable energy into electric mobility. The project supports the government’s efforts to expand access to clean transport, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and promote the wider use of electric vehicles in strategic locations, such as the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

Meanwhile, the SBMA held the blessing of e-buses and charging stations at the Maintenance and Transportation Department (MTD) and Argonaut Highway, paving the way for a greener Subic Bay Freeport on November 24, 2025.

The SBMA e-Bus is a new public transport system in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone utilizing 10 electric buses (e-buses) as part of the agency’s move towards a carbon-neutral Freeport. There are currently two charging stations for the e-buses, with the Department of Energy (DOE) donating the one at Argonaut Highway.

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. (PNA, SNL)

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SBMA honors 175 service awardees

A total of 175 service awardees were honored during the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA)’s 11th Loyalty Awards Ceremony at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center on November 17, 2025.

The SBMA Loyalty Awards aim to recognize employees who have served in government for ten years, 15, 20, 25, and 30 years.

The ceremony was graced by Civil Service Commission-Central Office’s Assistant Commissioner for Professionalization and Cooperation Atty. Judith A. Dongallo-Chicano.

“This celebration stands as a testament to your dedication and commitment. We celebrate not only the number of years you have devoted to public service. Each of you has been part of the continuing journey of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority. SBMA stands strong today because of people like you. You have been part of every improvement, every achievement, and every story of progress that defines this institution,” Dongallo-Chicano said.

44 awardees in the ten years of service were recognized, including a posthumous award for an employee who passed away in August 2024; 5 awardees in the 15 years of service; 114 awardees in the 20 years of service; nine awardees in the 25 years of service; and three awardees in the 30 years of service.

Meanwhile, the said awardees, together with the Employee of the Year 2024 finalists, whose awarding ceremony also coincided with the Loyalty Awards ceremony, were accorded a tribute through a grand entrance with the Jose de Piro Kabataan Orchestra, a non-profit organization from Dinalupihan, Bataan.

Nora P. Sevillejo, one of the three awardees in the 30 years of service, delivered her inspirational message expressing heartfelt gratitude to her colleagues and to the SBMA, being her second home for the past three decades.

“I am deeply honored to stand before you today as we celebrate the recipients of the Loyalty Awards. 30 years in service, this recognition holds great significance not just for the individuals receiving it, but for all of us who have had the privilege to work alongside all of you,” Sevillejo said.  

“Loyalty is a value that is built on trust, commitment, and unwavering dedication. It is not measured by time alone, but by the quality of service. The individuals we honor today have demonstrated all these qualities and more. SBMA has been more than just a workplace. It has been a place where I have been able to build a career, and be part of a community,” she added.

Sevillejo recalled she started as a volunteer in the Tourism Department with fellow awardee Judith Stenseth in 1994. She was assigned to the Financial Planning & Budget Department, and the latter to the Treasury Department, after a few months as a volunteer. From then on, Sevillejo has strictly monitored the capital expenditures of SBMA according to rules. (MPD-SBMA)

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