FOCUS: Subic Bay Rising: The Strategic Heart of the Luzon Economic Corridor

The Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC) is rapidly transforming from an ambitious infrastructure vision into what could become one of the most important economic development programs in Philippine history.

Anchored on the strategic growth corridor linking Subic Bay, Clark, Manila, and Batangas, the initiative aims to modernize logistics, strengthen energy security, improve connectivity, and position the Philippines as a major manufacturing and supply-chain hub in the Indo-Pacific.

At the center of this transformation is the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority and the broader Subic Bay Freeport Zone — a location increasingly viewed not only as a logistics center, but also as a strategic hub for energy, transportation, advanced manufacturing, aviation, and maritime industry.

From fuel infrastructure and freight railways to logistics, shipbuilding, and airport development, Subic Bay is becoming one of the Philippines’ most critical economic gateways.

Why Subic Bay Matters

Among the four major nodes of the Luzon Economic Corridor, Subic Bay possesses several strategic advantages that few locations in Southeast Asia can replicate.

The Port of Subic is one of the country’s deepest natural harbors, naturally protected from typhoons and positioned along vital regional shipping routes facing the West Philippine Sea and the broader Indo-Pacific region.

Unlike many developing industrial hubs, Subic already has a functioning Freeport ecosystem with modern roads, industrial estates, customs incentives, international port facilities, and direct access to major transport networks such as the Subic–Clark–Tarlac Expressway.

These advantages make Subic uniquely suited to serve as the western maritime gateway of the Luzon Economic Corridor.

Strengthening Energy Security Through Philippine Coastal Storage and Pipeline Corporation

One of Subic Bay’s most strategically important — yet often overlooked — assets is the facility operated by Philippine Coastal Storage and Pipeline Corporation.

Located within the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, the terminal is considered the largest independent petroleum import storage facility in the Philippines, with approximately 6.3 million barrels of storage capacity representing over 20 percent of the country’s total fuel import storage capability.

The facility plays a critical role in ensuring stable fuel supply for Metro Manila and Northern Luzon through its deep-water jetties, large-scale storage tanks, and fuel distribution infrastructure.

Beyond its existing operations, PCSPC is also planning the development of a new Subic-Clark pipeline system that would further strengthen fuel transport and energy logistics between Subic Bay and Central Luzon. The proposed project is expected to enhance the long-term energy infrastructure supporting the Luzon Economic Corridor.

Once pursued, the planned pipeline would help improve fuel distribution efficiency, reduce dependence on congested road-based fuel transport, and support the growing industrial, aviation, and logistics requirements of the Subic and Clark growth areas.

As global supply chains face increasing geopolitical uncertainty, energy infrastructure has become inseparable from national economic resilience.

This is why the PCSPC facility is highly significant within the Luzon Economic Corridor framework.

The terminal provides the Philippines with strategic fuel storage capability that supports industries, transportation networks, aviation operations, manufacturing facilities, and emergency energy reserves. Its location in Subic Bay also allows large fuel tankers to dock efficiently outside the congested Manila area.

Recent international investments into the facility further demonstrate growing confidence in Subic Bay’s role in regional energy logistics and infrastructure development.

The Subic-Clark-Manila-Batangas Railway: The Backbone of the Corridor

Perhaps the most transformative project under the Luzon Economic Corridor is the proposed Subic-Clark-Manila-Batangas (SCMB) Railway.

The railway is envisioned to become the logistical backbone connecting Luzon’s major ports, airports, industrial zones, and manufacturing centers into one integrated freight network.

Once completed, the SCMB Railway would connect:

• Subic Bay Port
• Clark International Airport
• Port of Manila
• Port of Batangas

This would significantly reduce cargo congestion in Metro Manila while improving freight efficiency across Luzon.

For decades, one of the Philippines’ major economic weaknesses has been fragmented logistics infrastructure. Goods moving across Luzon have long depended heavily on truck-based transport, leading to congestion, high logistics costs, and delays.

The SCMB Railway seeks to fundamentally change that.

The United States government, through the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA), has already committed technical assistance support for the railway’s development, including transport modeling, port-rail integration analysis, and institutional planning.

The railway is expected to:

• Improve cargo movement between major economic hubs
• Support industrial growth zones
• Strengthen supply-chain resilience
• Reduce transport costs
• Decongest Manila ports
• Enhance export competitiveness

Most importantly, it firmly establishes Subic Bay as a central logistics gateway within the national economic system.

The Agila Facility and Subic’s Expanding Maritime and Industrial Role

Another key component reinforcing Subic Bay’s strategic importance within the Luzon Economic Corridor is the Agila Subic Multi-Use Facility.

The facility represents a major example of how international investment is helping transform Subic Bay into a modern industrial, maritime, and logistics hub.

American company Cerberus Capital Management led the rehabilitation of the former Hanjin shipyard into the Agila Subic Multi-Use Facility — now envisioned as a multi-purpose logistics and industrial complex supporting maritime and manufacturing activities within the Freeport.

A major milestone for the facility came through Agila’s partnership with HD Hyundai, which is expected to significantly enhance the Philippines’ shipbuilding and maritime industrial capabilities.

The collaboration highlights Subic Bay’s growing role not only in logistics and trade, but also in regional shipbuilding, industrial services, and maritime support operations.

Inspired by the progress of the partnership, Cerberus Capital Management has reportedly expressed interest in exploring future expansion opportunities in the Philippines, signaling continued international confidence in Subic Bay’s long-term economic potential.

Beyond its industrial significance, the Agila facility has become an important economic and strategic landmark within the Subic Bay Freeport Zone. The project has helped generate employment opportunities, strengthen international economic partnerships, support local industries, and contribute to broader national and regional security objectives.

Together with Subic’s ports, transport infrastructure, and energy facilities, the Agila complex reinforces the Freeport’s growing role as one of the Philippines’ most important strategic and economic gateways under the Luzon Economic Corridor initiative.

The Subic International Airport Project: Expanding the Corridor’s Cargo and Logistics Capability

Another major development expected to strengthen Subic Bay’s role in the Luzon Economic Corridor is the proposed modernization of the Subic Bay International Airport through an unsolicited proposal submitted by Cerberus Asia Pacific Investments LLC.

The proposal involves the upgrade, expansion, operation, and maintenance of the airport under a long-term concession arrangement aimed at transforming the facility into a modern, efficient, and high-capacity cargo hub serving Luzon.

The project is expected to complement Subic Bay’s maritime infrastructure by integrating air cargo, port operations, logistics facilities, and industrial zones into a more connected regional supply-chain network.

Once developed, the airport could significantly enhance cargo movement efficiency, attract logistics and manufacturing locators, and support the growing demand for integrated transport infrastructure within the Luzon Economic Corridor.

The proposed airport modernization also aligns with Cerberus’ broader investments in Subic Bay involving shipbuilding, logistics, industrial development, and infrastructure modernization.

In recent years, the Subic Bay International Airport has primarily handled military and chartered flights, but the proposed redevelopment seeks to reposition the facility as a strategic commercial cargo gateway supporting both domestic and international trade.

The project is currently undergoing the comparative challenge or Swiss challenge process under the Philippine Public-Private Partnership framework after Cerberus was granted Original Proponent Status by the SBMA.

More Than Infrastructure: A Strategic Economic Realignment

The Luzon Economic Corridor is not merely a collection of infrastructure projects.

It represents a broader strategic realignment of the Philippine economy.

For decades, economic activity has remained heavily concentrated in Metro Manila. The corridor seeks to redistribute growth across interconnected regional hubs while creating more resilient and globally competitive supply chains.

Subic Bay’s role in this transformation is especially critical because it already possesses the combination of:

• Deep-water maritime access
• Industrial capacity
• Energy infrastructure
• Logistics connectivity
• Maritime and shipbuilding capability
• Aviation and cargo potential
• Available development space
• Strategic geographic location

These characteristics position Subic as one of the country’s most important economic and strategic assets in the coming decades.

A Defining Opportunity for the Philippines

As the Luzon Economic Corridor gains support from the United States, Japan, and a growing coalition of international partners, the Philippines finds itself at the center of a major shift in Indo-Pacific trade and infrastructure development.

For Subic Bay, this moment may prove historic.

The continued development of the PCSPC energy terminal, the planned Subic-Clark pipeline, the Subic-Clark-Manila-Batangas Railway, the Agila Subic Multi-Use Facility, the proposed modernization of Subic Bay International Airport, and the Freeport’s expanding logistics infrastructure could transform Subic into one of Southeast Asia’s premier logistics, maritime, aviation, and industrial gateways.

If sustained successfully, the Luzon Economic Corridor may ultimately redefine not only the future of Subic Bay — but also the Philippines’ role in global trade, energy security, manufacturing, and regional economic growth for generations to come. (SNL)

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Aviation school at SBIA partners with DLSU-St. Benilde to provide academic, flight training program to students

An aviation academy located at the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA) is set to provide academic and flight training to De La Salle University-College of Saint Benilde students as part of their curriculum. 

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Senior Deputy Administrator for Business and Investment Renato Lee III said that the Topflite Academy of Aviation and the De La Salle University-College of Saint Benilde signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the SBIA on January 23, 2026. 

He explained that the MOU will integrate the academic program of St. Benilde with the ground and flight training of Topflite Academy to produce industry-ready aviation professionals.

Actor-director-turned-pilot Xian Lim led the MOU signing ceremony as master of ceremony. He earned his commercial pilot license (CPL) in June 2025 after completing his training at Topflite Academy here in Subic.

Meanwhile, according to Capt. Sahl Onglatco of Topflite Academy, the MOU stipulates that the aviation academy will provide ground and flight training that will be included in the degree programs of St. Benilde, initially under the Tourism Management Program. 

Meanwhile, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has approved St. Benilde as a satellite ground school facility of Topflite Academy, and it is expected to launch the program from 2026 to 2027.

Aside from the signing of the MOU, the Academy also opened its new aviation training facilities at the SBIA as its second flight operations hub. One is at Bicol International Airport in Daraga, Albay. 

Subic Bay serves as a premier aviation training hub in the Philippines, anchored by institutions like Topflite Aviation Academy. 

Located at the SBIA, aviation academies offer comprehensive pilot training programs, including the CPL, the Private Pilot License, and the Instrument Rating, utilizing modern fleets, advanced simulators (Redbird), and, for Federal Aviation Administration, brand-new Tecnam aircraft. 

SBIA boasts of a 9,000-foot runway and, for many years, served as a former US Naval air station, providing robust, high-quality, secure, and safe facilities for flight training. (MPD-SBMA) 

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SBMA takes over aviation services company for failure to pay almost 20M dues

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has taken over the facilities of Aviation Hub Asia, Inc., an aviation services company inside this premier Freeport, for failing to comply with the agency’s lease agreement.

According to SBMA Chairman and Administrator Jonathan D. Tan, the SBMA Board of Directors has approved Resolution No. 23-10-0296 that pre-terminates the lease agreement of Aviation Hub Asia on October 3, 2023.

The issuance of the resolution from the Board came after the company failed to settle unpaid lease rentals, comply with development commitments, and the non-submission of Performance Bond.

The erring company has an outstanding obligation amounting to P19,122,335.97 and US$106.02 in unpaid lease rentals, penalty on performance bond, among others.

The company has continuously failed to comply with its development commitment and non-submission of Performance Bond within the period stated in the Notice of Default with Demand to Pay dated September 30, 2022. The SBMA pre-terminated and cancelled the company’s lease agreement and repossessed their properties.

The properties that the company leased included portions of a hangar area, office space, shed and open space located at Building 8066, Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA) Southwest Apron, Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

Tan said that the development commitment that the company failed to comply includes the renovation of five maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) hangars and offices, storeroom and pilot briefing rooms, two additional new aircraft hangars for refurbishment and MRO within three years from the signing of their lease agreement dated March 19, 2019.

SBMA served a notice of re-entry into, repossession and take-over of leased premises with demand to pay dated October 17, 2023 that was received on November 3, 2023. The notice took effect on Monday, some 30 days from the receipt of the notice.

This is in line with the SBMA Chairman's determination to clear out erring locators engaging in the practice of landbanking or failing to do good with their development commitment. 

With this action, Tan believes that new and honest investors will be in the offing. (MPD-SBMA)

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Subic develops corporate jet maintenance ‘bubble’

Intending to capitalize on Subic’s health safety record as an international gateway, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has developed an end-to-end platform that will deliver corporate jet maintenance service despite the continuing Covid-19 pandemic.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Wilma T. Eisma said the “Corporate Jet Maintenance Bubble” (CJMB) will be located at the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA), which also houses a crew-change hub for mariners that is being operated by the Department of Transportation (DOTr).

“The corporate jet maintenance bubble works with roughly the same concept—it will be a complete process that precludes any third-party engagement because the accommodations, amenities and services are all in one place, and everything stays isolated,” Eisma explained.

She said the SBMA recognized the financial pressure faced by the aviation industry and had developed the CJMB to provide a safe, seamless, and efficient mechanism that will enable business jet operators in the Asia-Pacific region to meet their maintenance needs here in the Philippines despite the Covid-19 crisis.

Eisma said the CJMB was developed in accordance with Resolution No. 84 of the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF), which authorized the SBMA to set up a corporate jet flight maintenance and crew layover hub at the Subic Freeport under a strict “bubble” concept, as recommended by the DOTr and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP).

“With this project, we can also generate income for the Subic airport and once more push its potential as a regional aviation hub,” Eisma added.

Under the bubble concept, business jets may come into Subic for maintenance work without the limiting restrictions currently being implemented at other local airports.

The end-to-end process was carefully tailored to ensure a level of safety that would meet existing guidelines from regulatory agencies like CAAP, International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), International Air Transport Association (IATA), as well as the World Health Organization (WHO), Department of Health (DOH), and the IATF.

Significantly, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) announced the lifting of travel restrictions on the 36 countries with reported cases of the new Covid-19 variants starting February 1, following a directive from the IATF.

Eisma said the SBMA “will strive to continuously work with the IATF, BI, DOTr and other stakeholders to ensure transparency and commitment to safety while facilitating the safe positioning of flights and their respective crew to and from Subic.”

The SBMA had approved an aviation maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility at the Subic airport as early as August 2019, giving services provider Aviation Concepts Technical Services Inc. (ACTSI) its go-ahead for the full development of the local airport as a 24/7 hub for business aviation.

The SBMA had since marketed SBIA for its strategic location, it being only 1.5 hours away from Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan and just 3 hours away from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.

The SBMA has also stressed the wealth of manpower talent and cost-effectiveness as some of the major advantages of doing business in Subic over other areas. (MPD-SBMA)

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Mx Provider ACTSI opens at Subic Bay Airport

MRO provider Aviation Concepts Technical Services Inc. (ACTSI) has opened a business jet service center at Subic Bay International Airport (SFS) in the Philippines. The opening of an 18,000-sq-m/193,750-sq-ft hangar is the first phase of the company’s facility upgrade project at SFS.

“With the opening of ACTSI’s facility, business jet owners and operators will have the confidence of knowing that a world-class facility, complemented with a team of certified engineers, can handle parking and maintenance of their aircraft,” said ACTSI general manager John O’Meara.

SFS officials hope the ACTSI facility at the former U.S. Navy base serves to become a business aviation hub in the region. “We are banking on the strategic location of Subic in the Asia-Pacific region to boost SBIA’s chances to become a regional player in the MRO business,” said Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority chairman and administrator Wilma Eisma.

The airport features a 9,000-foot runway, no slot restrictions, and is within 90 minutes flying time of Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan. Owned by Razon & Co., ACTSI has Cayman and Bermuda repair station approvals and is working toward obtaining FAA Part 145 approval. (ainonline.com)

PHOTO:

A Gulfstream G550 (photo from ACTSI facebook page)

https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/business-aviation/2019-10-03/mx-provider-actsi-opens-subic-bay-airport

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Subic airport poised for more aviation business

The Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA) is expected to gain the attention of more corporate clients and players in the aviation industry with the opening here on Monday of a facility for aviation maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Wilma T. Eisma said the MRO project by business aviation services provider Aviation Concepts Technical Services Inc. (ACTSI) will boost the agency’s program for the full development of the Subic airport as a 24/7 hub for business aviation.

“We have long dreamed of developing the SBIA into a business and general aviation (BA/GA) airport in the country, and this project is one huge step towards realizing that vision,” Eisma said on Thursday.

“We are banking on the strategic location of Subic in the Asia-Pacific region to boost SBIA’s chances to become a regional player in the MRO business,” she added.

ACTSI, which is the maintenance arm of Falconer Aircraft Management, Inc., an affiliated company of global port management firm International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI), has upgraded close to 18,000 square meters of hangar space at SBIA.

Under its 25-year lease agreement with the SBMA, ACTSI intends to provide hangar parking, corporate jet maintenance, repair and overhaul, as well as aircraft corrosion preventive solutions.

ACTSI’s large-sized aircraft users will also be able to enjoy easy take-offs and landings with the extensive 9,000-feet long runway at the SBIA.

In last Monday’s launch, the ACTSI hangar easily accommodated a 2010 Gulfstream Aerospace GIV-X (G450), which is more than 89 feet long and with a wingspan of more than 77 feet. A helicopter was also parked inside the facility.

ACTSI general manager John O'Meara and president and chief executive officer Fernando Gaspar led the soft launch of the Subic hangar with Senator Richard Gordon as guest of honor.

The senator, who initiated the establishment of the SBIA when he was SBMA chairman, welcomed the business venture of ACTSI and pointed out that the airport is one of the strategic advantages of the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

The Subic airport started out in 1951 as the Naval Air Station Cubi Point of the United States Navy and was converted into a commercial airport under the SBMA in 1992.

The SBMA has since marketed SBIA for its strategic location, it being only 1.5 hours away from Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan and just 3 hours away from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.

SBMA Chairman Eisma also noted that in a forum sponsored last year by the Hong Kong-based Asian Business Aviation Association (AsBAA), aviation executives expressed enthusiasm about developing Subic into a fully integrated aerospace park and aviation hub.

She added that enthusiasm was further bolstered by the concrete support of the Philippine government which allocated P553 million to help get the Subic airport running by improving its equipment and intensifying the airport marketing campaign.

“Along this line, we are now working to revive domestic and international flight operations at the SBIA; regain the SBIA’s status as an international airport; and settle pending issues to make Subic a 24/7 air terminal,” Eisma also said. (JRR/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:

ACTSI general manager John O'Meara (2nd, left) and president and chief executive officer Fernando Gaspar (2nd, right) with guest of honor Sen. Richard Gordon lead the toast during the launch of the Subic hangar project. (MPD-SBMA)

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ACTSI eyes Subic as business aviation hub inking deal with SBMA

Aviation Concepts Technical Services Inc. (ACTSI) – a business aviation services provider based in the Philippines – signed lease agreement with Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) to transform the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA), a former United States Navy Base, into a hub for business aviation in the Asia Pacific region.

Under a 25-year partnership with the SBMA, ACTSI is committed to providing hangar parking, corporate jet Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO) services and aircraft corrosion preventive solutions at SBIA, to ease the congested hangar parking and maintenance burdens in the region. Close to 18,000 square-meter ACTSI hangar facility is targeted to complete its premiere upgrade in the third quarter of 2019.

At the signing ceremony, SBMA’s Chairperson & Administrator Atty. Wilma “Amy” T. Eisma commented, “This is very exciting for SBIA and SBMA. With the added push coming from government, we will be able to jointly launch ACTSI’s services this year together with Subic Airport’s 24/7 capability.” ACTSI’s General Manger Mr. John O’Meara also said, “We are very delighted and optimistic in our partnership with the SBMA, helping it realize SBIA’s potential as a premiere hub for business aviation in Asia — servicing business jets around the region.”

The newly refurbished MRO hangar facility is set to meet standards of aircraft Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) and clients’ expectations. As the former US Navy base, SBIA allows ACTSI’s large-sized aircraft users to enjoy the extensive runway length at 9,000 feet for easy take-offs and landings. The ACTSI Subic hangar facility has Part 145 approvals from Civil Aviation Authority of Cayman Islands and Bermuda, it is currently working towards expanding its capabilities to include an FAA 145 approval.

Based in the Philippines, ACTSI is led by Mr. John O’Meara, a former Gulfstream Test Pilot with over 40 years aviation experience and a team of certified engineers, dedicating their efforts to providing hangar parking, corporate jet maintenance services and aircraft corrosion solutions to clients within the Asia Pacific region. (Aviationpros.com)

PHOTO:

ACTSI hangar at the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA)

https://www.aviationpros.com/aircraft/maintenance-providers/mro/press-release/21069524/aviation-concepts-technical-services-inc-actsi-actsi-eyes-subic-as-business-aviation-hub-inking-deal-with-subic-bay-metropolitan-authority

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Subic airport gears up for international flights

The Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA) is gearing up with a multi-million rehabilitation program to recapture its lost glory as a major port for international commercial flights.

“The government is set to pour P502 million for various landing instruments and communications systems, with funds from the Procurement Service of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM-PS), said Wilma Eisma, chairman and administrator of Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA).

Eisma said the DBM-PS will also bid out the component projects that will include procurement of Air-Ground VHF radio communication system, Area Navigation (RNAV) design, Doppler Very High Frequency Omni Directional Range (DVOR) for homing aircraft, Airfield Ground Lightings (AGL), Movement Area Ground Signages (MAGS), Airport Rescue & Fire Fighting (ARFF) vehicles, Air Passenger Boarding Bridges (APBB), and Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B).

Some P232 million worth of equipment will also be needed for the airport. These include X-ray machines, closed circuit television (CCTV), ambulance, sweeper truck, Flight Information Display System (FIDS), Fire Detection and Alarm System (FDAS), aerial platform, and pickup trucks and passenger vans, she said.

The SBMA started refurbishing the SBIA with a new P51 million Automated Weather Observation System (Awos), which provides continuous, real-time information on weather conditions. The Awos is not covered by the P502 million funding, Eisma said.

“The AWOS is already installed and operational, which is why Subic is now ready to accommodate planes because its communications and night-time capability are fully functioning. In fact, Subic recently took in flights from Bangkok that were diverted from Clark Airport,” she said.

She added that SBMA is also arranging for other commercial operations at the Subic airport, including maintenance repairs for Gulf Stream, flying school for the Philippine Airlines, Subic-Macau-Subic flights for Royal Air, as well as for China Eastern Airlines.

According to SBIA manager Zharrex Santos, the Subic airfield can accommodate almost all types of modern aircraft at more than 20 movements per hour because of its 2,744-meter runway with effective width of 45 meters. It also has ramps and aprons that could take in 24 wide-body aircraft for parking at one given time.

Meanwhile, the two tubes at the SBIA terminal building can process 700 passengers per hour, Santos said.

Recently, Senator Richard Gordon called for the immediate upgrading and operation of the Subic airport after a runway mishap caused hundreds of flight cancellations at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia).

Gordon said the national government has already appropriated P553 million from the 2017 General Appropriations Act for the restoration of facilities and procurement of instruments at the SBIA.

The Subic airport, which was built in 1951 as the US Navy’s Naval Air Station Cubi Point, was converted into a commercial airport under the SBMA and became the Asia One hub of Federal Express until 2009.

Subic proved its capability as a major diversion airport in December 1995 during another problem at the NAIA when it served 1,674 passengers from international liners and 212 passengers from local airlines and in August 2007 when it sheltered 37 various aircraft, 19 of which were passenger planes from Taiwan, because of Typhoon “Sepat.” (Ric Sapnu, SunStar)

PHOTO:

Aerial view of the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA)

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1764512

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DOT working with Royal Air for Macau-Subic chartered flights

The Department of Tourism (DOT) is now working with Royal Air Charter Service Inc. to mount charter flights between Macau and Subic Bay International Airport seven times a week.

The DOT said that Royal Air is planning to mount daily flights from Macau to Subic Bay on a daily frequency using a 97-seater aircraft.

“Royal Air is among our airline partners which the DOT is working with to bring in tourists from China. Through our Route Development Team, we are providing marketing support to air carriers to increase tourist traffic to underutilized international gateways in the Philippines such as the Subic Bay International Airport,” said DOT Undersecretary and spokesperson Benito Bengzon Jr.

If the said carrier agrees, it is expected to produce additional 697 international air seats or about 35,308 seats per year from China, the DOT stated.

Bengzon said Subic Bay is a special economic zone in the country “which by law allows the entry of foreign nationals without the required visa for a maximum of 14 days.”

“This is a good opportunity for Philippine tourism as Chinese nationals do not need to queue in our consular offices in China to secure the entry visa to the Philippines. Subic Bay has a lot to offer to leisure and business travelers with its natural, cultural, and adventure attractions coupled with world-class accommodations and other tourist facilities,” Bengzon said. (Analou De Vera, Manila Standard)

https://news.mb.com.ph/2018/07/28/dot-working-with-royal-air-charter-service-for-macau-subic-chartered-flights/

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Subic airport may be operational again by Q2 2019 - Tugade

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Transportation on Wednesday floated again its plan to revive the Subic Bay International Airport, which could be operational before the first or second quarter of 2019.

Speaking to reporters, Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade said “serious talks” are ongoing on the proposed revival of Subic airport. He declined to give an estimate for the cost of the project.

Bird's eye view of the Subic International Airport

To “give life” to the airport, Tugade explained that Subic airport’s aviation instruments must be upgraded to ensure safe landings. There are no problems with the airport’s structures, he added.

“I think the airport will be operational in due time,” the Transportation chief said. “Perhaps it will be operational before the first... second quarter next year.”

In 2010, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority planned to convert the airport after US delivery giant Federal Express transferred its Asia Pacific hub from Subic to Guangzhou in China.

Tugade first mentioned the DOTR’s plan to restore the Subic airport in 2016. The proposal aims to decongest the overstretched Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

Seeing the deterioration of the Manila airport, Tugade earlier said the government is “entertaining” proposals to build airports outside the capital. (Ian Nicholas Cigaral, Philippine Star)


https://www.philstar.com/business/2018/07/04/1830502/tugade-subic-airport-may-be-operational-again-q2-2019

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SBMA inks accord with Asian aviation group to develop Subic airport

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Asian Business Aviation Association (AsBAA) to further develop the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA) for business aviation.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Wilma T. Eisma said the agreement was signed during the Asian Business Aviation Conference & Exhibition 2018 on April 17 in Shanghai, China.

Under the MOU, AsBAA will help develop infrastructures at the SBIA, as well as assist in operations at the airport, while offering business aviation services in the Philippines through Subic.

AsBAA Philippine Chapter chairman Benjamin Lopez said that AsBAA “will support and advise on the initial design and ongoing operation of the SBIA to bring about an immediate and reliable facility that regional business aviation and general aviation operators can access as another option to operate from in the Philippines.”

Lopez, who is also the president of Inaec Aviation Corp., said that the country’s focus on infrastructure development to help decongest Manila in the aviation sector is most welcome.

“Plans have long been discussed and now is the time for action. We are delighted to assist the authorities in advising on these vital enhancements to Philippine aviation infrastructure,” he added.

The AsBAA Philippine chapter was launched in September 2017 and is the newest addition to AsBAA’s regional committees. The chapter started 2018 by leading a delegation of its members on a site visit and investment trip to Manila, Clark and Subic Airports to meet with regulators, airport operators, and aviation stakeholders.

On January 27, AsBAA president Max Motschmann led an ocular inspection of the SBIA to determine the business potential of the area.

The MOU for SBIA was the second agreement that the association signed this year to help develop airport infrastructures in Southeast Asia. The first agreement was with the Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB).

Eisma said that she wants to make SBIA a business aviation airport and to prepare it as well for general aviation; maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services; and charter flights. She added that passenger aviation should be focused in Clark Airport and not here in Subic.

“We can get spillover from neighboring airports like Clark, but I would rather court general aviation and business aviation heavily and have a niche for them to attract tourists with curated experiences,” Eisma added. (JRR/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Wilma T. Eisma (left) concludes an agreement with AsBAA Chairperson Jennyn Lao for the development and operation of the Subic Bay International Airport. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

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Lucio Tan eyes PAL flying school in Subic Freeport

Dr. Lucio Tan, chairman and chief executive officer of Philippine Airlines (PAL), is looking into the establishment here of a flying school under his flagship airlines brand.

The business tycoon flew into the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA) here last Sunday for an ocular inspection of airport facilities, and was welcomed by Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Wilma T. Eisma.

During the visit, Tan inquired about the state of facilities at the airport terminal, as well as other business potentials and tourism facilities that would complement an aviation-related trade.

“He was all smiles since the moment he landed at the SBIA on board his helicopter,” Eisma said. “The SBMA technical working group made a presentation showing the full potential of the Subic airport and I believe he was very much impressed.”

The PAL chairman, along with his entourage, closely inspected the Subic airport terminal, and asked for areas that could possibly be used for restaurants or passenger lounges.

Eisma, meanwhile, briefed him of the design and purpose of the terminal and pointed out that it used to accommodate local and international flights.

“Despite not being fully utilized, the SBIA equipment all work properly. We have kept them in tip-top shape,” Eisma pointed out.

The SBIA, which was completed in 1996 in time for Subic’s hosting of the APEC summit, boasts of a 10,000-square meter passenger terminal that has two gates, two jet ways, a closed-circuit television system, and a 9,000-foot runway.

It also has a military ramp at the southwest area, which is used by US Air Force planes under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) between the Philippines and the United States. Meanwhile, its midway ramp is being utilized by a flight school here for aircraft parking.

Tan and his group also went on a rolling tour of the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, and looked into areas such as the Alava Wharf and the Cubi residential area.

The businessman, who asked if there were enough hotels that could accommodate the possible influx of airline passengers in Subic, was reportedly thrilled over the tourism sites that abound in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

Early this month, leaders of the Hong Kong-based Asian Business Aviation Association said in a forum here that the SBIA could be developed as a business and general aviation (BA/GA) airport to help increase people mobility, as well as boost business operations in the region.

Eisma said the agency is now aggressively promoting Subic as an aviation hub and is entertaining all possible options to maximize the use of its airport facilities.

“It is a challenge to us to get SBIA running. We’re all for these suggestions to turn Subic into an aviation hub that would cater to tourists, as well as traders because that would mean more business for the Freeport,” she added. (JRR/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Wilma T. Eisma and Dr. Lucio Tan discuss the potentials of the Subic Bay International Airport when the business magnate visited Subic on Sunday.

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Subic Bay commits to business aviation

As general and business aviation are slowly being squeezed out from Manila International Airport, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) is hoping to capture this opportunity and has committed its airport to being a hub for business aviation, similar to Seletar Airport in Singapore.

“My vision is to make Subic Bay International Airport a business aviation airport, as well for general aviation, MRO, and charter flights," said Wilma Eisma, the chairperson and administrator of SBMA. “We can get spillover from neighboring airports like Clark, but I would rather court GA/BA heavily and have a niche for them to attract tourists with curated experiences.”

She told AIN during an Asian Business Aviation Association (AsBAA) visit to Subic Bay that they are in the process of privatizing the airport. The process is under guidance from the U.S. Trade Development Agency on the best methods. The aim is to complete the study this year and start privatizing by 2019, before the end of the Duterte administration in five years.

Read more --> https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/business-aviation/2018-02-01/subic-bay-commits-business-aviation

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3 firms eye Subic airport redev’t

Three firms have expressed interest for the redevelopment of Subic International Airport (SBIA).

Martin Dino, chairman of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, in a letter to transportation secretary Arthur Tugade identified these AIA Airways, Intercontinental Pacific Airways and RIL International & Global Link Co., Ltd.

AIA Airways wants to build a $1.5-billion logistics center and transshipment hub for cargo airline operations, supported by a maintenance repair station and a world-class aviation institution in the tradition of the US Dallas Forth Worth. It is projected to generate 800 new jobs.

RIL International & Global Link Co., Ltd has made a $1.5-billion proposal to lease, develop, upgrade, modernize and operate the SBIA to include provisions for a modern airport terminal, hotels, theme parks and a sports complex.

The third, Intercontinental Pacific Airways wants a $48-million airlines operations center including maintenance, repair and overhaul operations. It is projected to employ 610 workers

Dino said the projected P2 billion upgrade will turn the facility, formerly a hub for logistics company Federal Express (FedEx), into a major international gateway for travelers to the Philippines.

“We want the airport to be fully operational again, and to be at par with the best airports in Asia and the world,” he said.

SBIA boasts of long runway fitted to handle long-haul wide-body jets and heavy air transport, Dino said.

The 200-hectare aviation facility, can handle commercial or chartered aircraft operation, air cargo handling and warehousing, aircraft repair and maintenance and other general aviation businesses. It features a 2,700-meter runway and a 10,000-square-meter passenger terminal that can handle 700 passengers.

SBIA has been mostly idle since mid-2009 when FedEx closed down its Asia-Pacific transshipment hub and moved its entire hub operations to Guangzhou, China

Dino expressed optimism the upgraded SBIA can be made operational in six months to one year after construction.

Redeveloping Subic’s airport is part of five priority projects the SBMA under Dino has proposed to President Duterte to decongest congestion in Metro Manila.

“The redevelopment would raise the Subic airport’s facilities to international standards capable of handling thousands of passengers and all types of cargo,” he said.

“It could serve as an inter-modal (airport-seaport) logistics hub and a strategic area for cruise destinations (mother ports), junket trips, VIP Jet services and other-related air travel, Dino added.

Dino said that new tourism and manufacturing investments could generate 100,000 new jobs, and exports, including those from nearby economic free zones in Luzon, could increase to about $43.35-billion per year.

“By enhancing Subic’s importance as a gateway, it could generate foreign direct investments estimated at $13.5-billion,” Dino said.

Dino also proposed the construction of a 100-kilometer multi-modal elevated expressway and railway from Subic Port to the Port of Manila.

The other priority projects within the Freeport include the building of major infrastructure that, Dino said, “will begin to shift the momentum of development north toward Subic and Clark.

Compared to other cities, the Subic-Clark corridor “is the only place that has a sustainable future” and its “full-blown expansion is the key” that would trigger an inflow of investments, Dino said. (Albert Castro, Malaya)

http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/business/3-firms-eye-subic-airport-redev%E2%80%99t

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P60-B project to boost Subic Freeport as logistics hub

A P60-billion investment project to be implemented by an Australian firm here is expected to push this premier free port into the ranks of top global logistics centers today.

This was announced by Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Robert Garcia yesterday at a press briefing here, wherein he also cited other new investment projects that had been approved by the SBMA board of directors.

According to the SBMA official, Asian Institute of Aviation (AIA) will occupy seven hectares of land near the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA) and will build hangars and food processing stations for its intermodal logistics business.

Garcia said that AIA will be joined by an Australian firm, which will buy into the company for the new operations.

“The business model of the company is to export from Australia to China, Japan, and other Asian countries, via airplanes,” Garcia said. “The company will import meat, sea food, and other agricultural products from Australia by plane or by ship to Subic Bay, and will process and package these products according to customer orders and then deliver them to customers.”

Garcia explained that the Australian partner has been doing the processing already in Australia, but because the processing in Australia entails higher labor cost, it has decided to do the processing in Subic.

The operation, Garcia said, will become intermodal. “They will ship out by air since they have seven jets; they will also ship out via seaport, and their volume for the seaport is 60 containers per month,” Garcia said.

Aside from the P60-billion investment, the project will generate 800 jobs, aside from those during the construction of facilities, and the company “has also shown interest in providing new equipment for the tower at the Subic airport,” Garcia said.

The new investor also plans to build hangars for maintenance and repair operations (MRO) that will cater to jets in Hong Kong. “Mahal magparada ng jet dun. You pay $3,000 just to park it outside without a hangar,” Garcia added.

The new investment has been approved in principle by the SBMA board after the proponents showed proof of funds, Garcia said, adding that the construction of proposed facilities will still be subject to detailed engineering design.

“This is a good project for us,” Garcia said. (JRR/MPD-SBMA)

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PAL supports plan to move private aircraft out of NAIA to Sangley, Clark or Subic

Flag carrier Philippine Airlines over the weekend expressed support on the plans of the government to remove private jets parked at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

"We declare our full support to the new government's decision to move the operation of general aviation of general aviation out of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to either Sangley, Clark, or Subic," Chairman and CEO Lucio Tan said in a statement.

Sought for clarification, PAL said that general aviation refers to privately owned aircraft, charter services, and all other related operations.

"This declaration of support includes moving out of NAIA my small fleet of private jets as gesture of compliance to the Department of Transportation initiative," Tan said.

The transportation department earlier announced plans to move out all private operations in NAIA, leaving the airport to purely commercial operations in efforts to decongest it.

"The move of the Department of Transporation will significantly decongest the NAIA which currently shared by general aviation operators and scheduled airlines," Tan said.

"Any measure to reduce air traffic congestion at NAIA will not only improve airlines' flight schedule reliability but also enhance passenger convenience," he added.

The PAL in April announced it has inked a purchase agreement with Airbus for the firm order of six A350 XWBs, plus six options.

The airline currently has more than 70 planes with flight services to 30 domestic, and over 40 international destinations. (ALG, GMA News)

PHOTO:
The Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA)

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/574030/money/companies/pal-supports-plan-to-move-private-aircraft-out-of-naia

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Lyceum of Subic Bay and APG inaugurate new learning facility

Lyceum of Subic Bay in partnership with APG International Aviation Academy Inc., one of the best in Asia, inaugurated its new facilities here, Wednesday, May 18 with SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator for Business, Investment and Development Stefanie Saño as guest of honor.

The 34,196 square meter lease area with seven major structures in Cubi-Triboa District Subic Bay Freeport was turned over to Lyceum Subic Bay by the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) on April 27, 2016. The simple but historic ceremony was led by no less than the Honorable SBMA Chairman Roberto V. Garcia. The property is now named, Lyceum of Subic Bay Annex.

In his turn-over message, Chairman Garcia expressed his confidence that Lyceum, together with APG is able to develop and preserve the facilities and make them the Freeport’s Center for Educational Excellence.

Mr. Alfonso E. Borda, Founding President and CEO of Lyceum of Subic Bay, accepted the challenge and noted that the momentous event marked the beginning of a real difference in education as LSB and APG, commit themselves to the exacting test of excellence of establishing a world-class institution producing a globally competitive workforce.

Senior Deputy Administrator Saño said that the inauguration of the new LSB and APG facilities was an additional achievement for the Freeport community.

Mr. Borda envisions that with the highly qualified, responsible, committed and dedicated management and staff of LSB and APG, this property shall be a home for the best in K to 12 basic education and internationally recognized curriculums in aviation and aeronautics.

Also present during this event were, APG President and CEO Cpt. Arnel Miguel, Ms. Emaline Guadez, LSB Executive Vice President, Ms. Concepcion T. Borda, LSB VP for Administration, Mr. Jeru Joseph T. Borda, LSB VP for Academic Affairs, Dr. Diena B. Oroceo, Dep Ed officials headed by Dr. Bernadette F. Tamayo, Schools Divisions Superintendent and the teaching and non-teaching staff, and students of both LSB and APG.

PHOTO:
APG President and CEO Capt. Arnel Miguel (3rd from left) LYCEUM of Subic Bay President and CEO Alfonso Borda and former Zambales Congresswoman 1st District Mitos Magsaysay (2nd right) lead the ribbon cutting ceremony during the inauguration of the Lyceum of Subic Bay in partnership with the APG International Aviation Academy, Inc. last May 18, 2016. Others in photo are (from left) SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator for Business Investment and Development Stefanie Sano, Ms. Emaline Guadez and LSB Executive Vice President Conception T. Borda.

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Honeywell eyes additional investment for its Subic Bay operations

Honeywell Aerospace, the world's largest manufacturer of aircraft engines and avionics, may increase investments across Asia Pacific, including the Philippines, as it anticipates higher air traffic in the region following the ratification of the ASEAN Open Skies agreement.

Honeywell Aerospace Asia Pacific president Steven Lien said in an email, the company expects growth in both regional and domestic air traffic with the ratification of the ASEAN Open Skies policy by all 10 member states.

“As the aviation industry continues to grow in Asia Pacific and in the Philippines, Honeywell is committed to supporting the needs of the industry and is confident that this will translate into increased investments across our Asia Pacific facilities, including Subic Bay,” Lien said.

Honeywell’s Philippine facility in Subic Bay provides maintenance, repair and overhaul services for commercial aviation wheels and brakes. Its facility at the Subic Technopark opened in 2003 as Honeywell Ceasa (Subic bay) Company Incorporated.

Lien said the Philippines has played an important role in Honeywell’s operations as the Subic Bay facility has enabled the company to strengthen network support.

In particular, the Honeywell Subic Bay facility has been working closely with local distributors and dealers to offer products and services to airlines operating in the Philippines and around the Asia Pacific region.

The ASEAN Open Skies agreement allows designated carriers of ASEAN countries to operate unlimited flights between capitals.

With growth in both regional and domestic air traffic expected, Honeywell is prepared to pour in funds to address the demand of the aviation industry.

Honeywell is a Fortune 100 diversified technology and manufacturing company providing aerospace products and services, control technologies for buildings, homes and industry; turbochargers; and performance materials.

The company’s aerospace unit develops innovative solutions intended to make more fuel efficient airplanes, more direct and on-time flights, as well as safer flying and runway traffic.

It is likewise engaged in providing advanced aircraft engines, cockpit and cabin electronics, wireless connectivity services and logistics. (The Philippine Star)

PHOTO:
Honeywell Ceasa (Subic Bay) Co., Inc. was recently conferred the Mabuhay Business Award by the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) as among 15 business locators in Subic Bay that have strengthened the local economy and contributed significantly to the growth of the country’s gross domestic product. Honeywell Subic is a P435-million firm providing repair and overhaul of aircraft wheels, brakes and other aircraft equipment.

http://www.philstar.com/business/2016/05/19/1584543/honeywell-eyes-more-investments-asia

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Plane forced to land in Subic due to mechanical problem (INQ Report)

Subic Bay Freeport - A twin-engine aircraft carrying two pilots made an emergency landing at a section of the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA) here after its nose wheel malfunctioned on Sunday morning.

According to SBIA officials, the front landing gear of aircraft RP-C1123 (Piper Seneca 23) failed to retract, prompting its occupants to seek help from the airport’s operation center at about 10 a.m.

Members of the crash rescue team of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority spray foam chemicals on a Piper
Seneca 23 twin-engine aircraft after it made an emergency landing at a section of the Subic Bay International
Airport inside the Subic Bay Freeport due to a malfunctioning landing gear on Sunday (Apr. 10, 2016).
(Photo courtesy of Kmel Reyes)

Filipino pilot, Capt. Jason Legaspi, 38, and Indonesian student pilot Akhyar Siregar Fadhli, 20, were unhurt when they landed the aircraft safely on Runway 25 at 11:20 a.m., SBIA officials said.

Legaspi said he tried to manually loosen and open the landing gear, but had failed, prompting him to alert the SBIA Control Tower, according to a report from the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Law Enforcement Department.

The SBMA crash team sprayed the aircraft with fire retardant chemicals as a precautionary measure, while an emergency medical trauma team tended to the passengers.

The aircraft, SBIA officials have said, is owned by the APG International Aviation Academy, a flight school operating inside the free port.

The six-seater plane was towed away from the runaway, to allow the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines to investigate the accident. (Allan Macatuno, Inquirer Central Luzon)


http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/778999/plane-forced-to-land-in-subic-due-to-mechanical-problem

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‘Use Subic for canceled flights’

Flights canceled due to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit can use the airport in Subic.

Richard Gordon, a former Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) chairman, made the proposal yesterday in a post in his Twitter account @DickGordonDG.

Subic airport was used when the freeport hosted the APEC summit in 1996, Gordon said.

Twenty-four heads of economies attended the meeting at the time, he added.

Federal Express also used the airport for several years, Gordon said.

“We built Subic airport,” he said.

“APEC ’96 used it. Fedex landed 18 cargo jets there for several years. Why don’t we use it today for APEC canceled flights?”

As of October 30, a total of 1,364 flights have been canceled to give way to the arrival of APEC delegates.

The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has issued notices to airmen (NOTAM) setting certain restrictions on aircraft at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) from November 17 to 20.

NOTAM B3227/15 restricts general aviation aircraft operations within 40-nautical mile radius of NAIA covering the vicinity of the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) effective 6 a.m. of November 17 to 7 p.m. of November 20.

General aviation aircraft operations outside the 40-nautical mile radius of NAIA shall be limited to local operations, excluding Clark and Subic International Airports.

Training aircraft of flying schools are restricted to operate only outside the 40-nautical mile radius.

“Exemptions are Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) related operations with approval from APEC National Organizing Council (NOC) and duly coordinated with CAAP Operations and Rescue Coordination Center (ORCC) and aircraft on emergency mission,” CAAP said.

It also imposed the No-Fly Zone within two nautical miles from coordinates (PICC) due to special operations effective on November 17, 10 a.m. to November 20, 7 p.m.

Takeoff and landing of aircraft on runway 31 were also prohibited and no landing would be implemented on runway 13 during those dates. (Sheila Crisostomo, with Louise Maureen Simeon, Rudy Santos, Philippine Star)

PHOTO:
Subic airport was used when the freeport hosted the APEC summit in 1996, Richard Gordon said.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2015/11/13/1521346/use-subic-canceled-flights

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