PH, US, Japan tie up to boost Luzon Economic Corridor, connectivity between Subic Bay, Clark, Manila & Batangas

The Philippines, United States and Japan have partnered on a venture that will boost connectivity between the key economic hubs of Subic Bay, Clark, Manila, and Batangas comprising the Luzon Economic Corridor.

According to a joint statement of the leaders of the three nations following a trilateral meeting in Washington, D.C., the Luzon Economic Corridor is the latest economic corridor of the G7 Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment (PGI) and the first in the Indo-Pacific region.

“Today we are launching the Luzon Economic Corridor, which will support connectivity between Subic Bay, Clark, Manila, and Batangas in the Philippines,” the joint statement said.

Through this corridor, Japan, the Philippines, and the United States commit to accelerating coordinated investments in high-impact infrastructure projects.

These projects include rail, ports modernization; clean energy and semiconductor supply chains and deployments, agribusiness and civilian port upgrades at Subic Bay.

Japan has long been supporting connectivity in this area, including rails and roads, through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

“We plan to work with multilateral organizations and the private sector to attract quality, transformative investments,” the statement said.

“Together we intend to hold a trilateral event promoting investment in the Luzon Corridor on the margins of the Indo-Pacific Business Forum in Manila in May—the premier U.S. commercial event in the region,” it added.

The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation also intends to open a regional office in the Philippines to facilitate further investments across the Philippines.

According to the statement, the Luzon Corridor is a demonstration of the three nations’ enhanced economic cooperation, focused on delivering tangible investments across multiple sectors.

Japan, the Philippines, and the United States are also partnering to expand cooperation and investments in other areas of the Philippines. (SNL)

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Sharp eyes Subic Bay for renewable energy hub

Sharp Solar Solution Asia is setting its eyes on transforming Subic Bay Freeport into a renewable energy hub in the region.

This move aligns with the country's broader initiative to embrace green energy solutions, following recent policy shifts that encourage foreign investment in the renewable sector.

During a recent visit to Subic, Sharp's CEO Hideyuki Inada discussed with Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Eduardo Aliño the potential for solar energy farm projects within the freeport zone.

 

This initiative is not only a testament to the growing trust and confidence in the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s renewable energy programs but also leverages Japan's favorable foreign exchange rates, enhancing Sharp's competitiveness in the global solar energy market. 

Sharp's successful operation of solar farms across Vietnam, Thailand, Mongolia, and Laos, alongside its existing projects in the Philippines, underscores its capability and commitment to advancing solar energy solutions.

The entry of Sharp into the Subic Bay Freeport signifies a positive shift in the investment climate, promising substantial economic and environmental benefits. 

The partnership is expected to bolster the Philippines' position as a leading destination for green energy investment, spurred by recent legislative changes that allow 100 percent foreign ownership in renewable energy projects. 

These reforms have already led to a surge in investment applications, including offshore wind and floating solar projects, highlighting the country's potential to generate significant employment opportunities in the renewable sector. (bnnbreaking.com)

Source:https://bnnbreaking.com/finance-nav/business/sharp-solar-solution-asia-eyes-subic-bay-for-renewable-energy-hub-boosting-philippines-green-initiatives

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Increased cargo volume seen as Philippine, Japan gov’ts mull Manila-Subic-Osaka shipping route

Increased trade and cargo volume is seen as the Philippine and Japan governments mull a Manila-Subic-Osaka route for major shipping lines.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño said that the Port of Osaka and the agency are exploring cooperation possibilities in port-related business while tapping the potential of both ports in initiating cargo traffic between the Port of Osaka and the Port of Subic Bay.

“The Philippines is among the world’s fastest-growing economies with an average annual growth rate of six to seven percent per year. After diving into a slump in the growth of its Gross Domestic Product in 2022 due to Covid, we can now hope, dream, and expect to marvel at a new dawn, and proudly become an indispensable and crucial part in the financial and industrial development of international trade,” Aliño said during the Osaka Ports & Harbors Bureau Mission to the Philippines.  

Aliño added that the two ports are now pursuing to develop a Manila-Subic-Osaka route with major shipping lines to increase trade and cargo volume between the Philippines and Japan, one of the country’s top trading partners.

Osaka Ports and Harbors Bureau Director General Maruyama Junya cited that the visit to Subic Bay Freeport is an opportunity to share information on port development, port management, and logistics, and to promote mutual exchanges.

“Osaka Port has developed as an international trade port with industrial and financial development in the Kansai area. We are working actively on further development through improving port facilities and carrying out port sales,” Junya said.

“In 2023, we have decided to focus on the Philippines, one of the Southeast Asian countries that has been developing remarkably against a backdrop of high economic growth in recent years, and organized a port sales team with Kobe-Osaka International Port Corporation and other transport companies,” he added.

He also stated that during the Philippine Investment Forum 2023 last November, a lecture and interview with Business and Investment Department for Manufacturing and Maritime manager Karen Magno “triggered our great interest in the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority.”

Chairman Aliño, Senior Deputy Administrator (SDA) Ronnie Yambao, SDA Renato Lee III, Maritime Business Manager Karen Magno, and Seaport Department Officer-in-Charge Michael Lazaro provided an extensive briefing during the visit on Thursday.

“In 2023, our cargo volume has reached to 6.4 million metric tons with lumber, tires and motor vehicles as the top commodities handled at the Port of Subic Bay, both for import and export,” Yambao said. 

“By expanding our network and developing this new shipping route, we are also providing more economic opportunities that will increase our trade and cargo volume between our ports,” he added. 

The port administrators and related parties from Osaka include Osaka Ports and Harbors Bureau Director Takahashi Hiroshi, Promotion Department Section Chief Shiba Toshihiro, Kobe-Osaka International Port Corporation President Kido Takafumi, Osaka Area Chief Facility Section Tsuji Genta, and Osaka Port Corporation Assistant Manager Yamada Akiko.

Also part of the delegation are port and harbor transportation business operators such as: Sumitomo Warehouse Co. Marine Osaka Branch Manager Machida Ryota; Tatsumi Shokai Co., Ltd. General Manager Teramoto Teruya, Chief Asai Kei; Nissin Corporation Hanshin Marine Department Deputy General Manager Imoto Masaya, and Deputy General Manager Mori Makata; Konoike Transport Co., Ltd. General Manager Kanda Shigeru; Sankyu Inc. Osaka Branch General Manager Tamura Kei; Shosen Koun Co., Ltd. Group Leader Okumura Kazunari; Nippon Express Co., Ltd. Osaka International Transport Branch Nanko International Office General Manager Hiraoka Motonobu; and Mitsubishi Logistics Corporation Osaka Branch Deputy General Manager Shinichiro Nakajima. (MPD-SBMA) 

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Japanese industrial park to double dividends for SBMA

Japanese developer partners at the Subic Techno Park (STEP) have agreed to double the dividend payments for the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), which will amount to almost US$1-million.

This was revealed by SBMA Chairman and Administrator Jonathan D. Tan. The consensus came about during a STEP board meeting held in Tokyo, Japan on November 17, 2023.  STEP is a Joint Venture Agreement (JVA) between the SBMA, Japan International Development Organization (JAIDO) and Toyo Construction Co. Ltd. (TOYO) that was executed in April 1996. The JVA was executed for the planning, development, construction, operation and maintenance of STEP’s 74-hectare industrial estate inside the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

As agreed in the JV, SBMA will maintain the 49.97% share equity and Japanese developers led by STEP President Ichiro Tsuji and his associates will have 50.03% equity.

Moreover, Tan cited that last year, the SBMA only received dividends of almost half million USD from STEP. This year, the official shared that the agency stands to receive dividends in the amount of $999,333.64.

Chairman Tan and SBMA Director Kenneth G. Rementilla led the SBMA delegation during the Tokyo board meeting recently. The two represented the agency and are nominees to the STEP.

President Tsuji disclosed that over the years, STEP has worked diligently to achieve its vision as evidenced by the presence of eight major Japanese locators and ten smaller companies, collectively occupying more than 70% of the leasable areas within the industrial estate.

“This, in turn, has led to the employment of approximately 10,000 local and foreign workers, who significantly contribute to the growth of the local economy,” he added.

Meanwhile, companies inside the STEP are now expanding their operations due to the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises Act (Create) law. One of the companies, Nidec Subic Philippines Corporation, is set to generate employment from its P4.2-billion expansion project in this Freeport.

Nidec Subic President Takeshi Yamamoto said that the company’s expansion project is already seen to generate close to 5,000 jobs until the last incentivized year as the Japanese manufacturing firm currently has a workforce of 622.

Japanese firm Sanyo Denki also held a groundbreaking for a 30-hectare complex for its US$10 million expansion of its computer parts manufacturing this year inside the STEP. Sanyo Denki is expected to hire additional 1,000 workers initially for the production of computer parts that are exported globally. (MPD/SBMA)

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SBMA lauds PBBM signing of ₱4.2-B Nidec Subic’s new venture

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) lauded the signing of Nidec Subic Philippines Corporation’s venture into a new product, which will infuse an additional ₱4.2 billion.

In his recent official visit to Japan, President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. signed the contract with Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, who invited him to Japan during the UN General Assembly meeting in New York back in September.

“We are very thankful for President Marcos’ successful official trip to Japan where he signed another blessing for us in the Subic Bay Freeport because this will create more jobs for our community, and bring better industrial peace,” SBMA Chairman and Administrator Rolen C. Paulino said.

Paulino added that the President's five-day trip to Japan entailed reaffirming the strong and vibrant relations between the two countries, as well as maximizing its partnership thru defense, security, political, economic, and people-to-people ties.

“This new venture by Nidec Subic is a validation of the foreign investors’ strong confidence in the leadership of President Marcos, and in the Subic Bay Freeport, especially now that we have adopted a Fast, Friendly and Flexible customer service. Because of that, we are now expecting to draw more foreign investments to make it happen in the Philippines, particularly in Subic,” he said.

According to the SBMA Business and Investment Department for Manufacturing and Maritime, Nidec Subic will be producing precision gearboxes that ensure smooth and efficient gear operation in a wide range of applications such as robotics, aerospace and solar tracking. It will initially require 1,074 workers.  

Nidec is the world’s top manufacturer of small precision motors, and currently maintains the largest market share in the world for spindle motors, which rotate disks and are at the heart of hard disk drives used in personal computers.

In 2019, Nidec Subic launched their expansion program to produce industrial robotic gears with an actual investment worth US$250 million, generating additional employment of 632.

The company ventured into manufacturing reduction gears which are considered vital in controlling the speed and traction of electronic equipment.

Nidec Subic was named among the top ten exporters of 2022 with an export value totaling to US$49.43 million. (MPD-SBMA) 

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Japan, Philippines to cooperate on development plan for Subic Bay

Japan will help the Philippines redevelop the former U.S. naval base at Subic Bay, Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced.

Philippines Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez and Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs Toshimitsu Motegi confirmed the plans after they met in Manila on Thursday (January 9). The pair agreed to cooperate in “drawing up a master plan, which would bring out potential for economic development in the Subic Bay area,” according to a Japanese government statement.

Subic Bay was once home to thousands of U.S. sailors and their families before the Navy vacated its bases there in 1992. It’s still a regular port call for U.S. warships and for Marines who practice beach landings nearby in Zambales province.

The strategic harbor’s importance has grown amid Chinese efforts to build military facilities on artificial islands and claim sovereignty over territory to the west in the South China Sea.

Last June, the U.S. Navy announced it was “exploring the viability of a shipyard in Subic Bay for use as a potential repair and maintenance facility.”

The shipyard’s owner, Hanjin Philippines, declared bankruptcy earlier in 2019 owing $900 million to South Korean creditors. A pair of Chinese firms subsequently expressed an interest in buying the facility, sparking alarm in some quarters.

The Japan International Cooperation Agency will help develop the Subic Bay plan, which aims to develop knowledge-based industries, logistics terminals, public utilities and roads to grow the local economy, Bloomberg reported Jan. 9. (Seth Robson, Stars and Stripes)

https://www.stripes.com/news/pacific/japan-philippines-to-cooperate-on-development-plan-for-us-navy-s-former-home-at-subic-bay-1.614696

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Oryoku Maru Hellship Commemoration Ceremony held in Subic Bay (In Photos)

[1] The American and Philippine flags were on display at the Subic Hellship Memorial marker during a remembrance ceremony on Sunday, Dec. 15, to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the sinking of the hellship MV Oryoku Maru.

The vessel carrying nearly 300 American prisoners of war was accidentally sunk by American fighter planes on Subic Bay, Philippines on December 15, 1944.

[2] Members of the Fleet Reserve Association perform a solemn sailors’ bell ritual during a remembrance ceremony on Sunday, Dec. 15, to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the sinking of the hellship MV Oryoku Maru.

[3] Tracey Betts, a representative from the United States Embassy in Manila, lays a wreath at the wreck site of the MV Oryoku Maru during a remembrance ceremony on Sunday, Dec. 15, to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the sinking of the hellship. Oryoku Maru, carrying nearly 300 American prisoners of war, was accidentally sunk by American fighter planes on Subic Bay, Philippines on December 15, 1944.


Photos & captions by the SBMA Media Production Department

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Japan pledges assistance for Subic Bay master plan

Japan has pledged to extend technical assistance for the development of the Subic Bay Freeport Zone and its surrounding areas, according to the Department of Finance (DOF).

In a statement, the DOF said Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has conveyed Japan’s commitment to provide assistance in crafting a master plan for the regional development of Subic Bay.

This happened during their bilateral meeting on Monday on the sidelines of the 35th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Bangkok, Thailand.

“The two leaders affirmed that the Japanese assistance is a testament to the deepening strategic partnership between Japan and the Philippines,” the DOF said.

According to the DOF, the proposed master plan would outline possible projects in Subic Bay and its surrounding areas, particularly in the fields of road network development, logistics terminal development, disaster risk management and other public utilities development.

Japan remains to be the top provider of official development assistance (ODA) loans and grants to the Philippines, totaling $8.26 billion as of December 2018. This accounts for 46 percent of the country’s total ODA loan portfolio.

Since 2016, the DOF said Manila and Tokyo have signed 10 loan agreements, which provide Japanese funding support for big-ticket infrastructure projects under the Duterte administration’s Build Build Build program. (Mary Grace Padin, Philippine Star)

PHOTO:

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.


https://www.philstar.com/business/2019/11/08/1966831/japan-pledges-assistance-subic-bay-master-plan

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Royal Thai Navy vessels, Japanese destroyer in Subic for goodwill visit

Two vessels of the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) docked at this premier Freeport on Wednesday as part of a goodwill visit to the Philippines until Saturday.

These are His Thai Majesty’s Ship (HTMS) Taksin (FFG-422), a Naresuan-class frigate, and the HTMS Krabi (OPV-551), a modified river-class patrol vessel.

Philippine Navy’s Fleet-Marine Ready Force chief Commodore Toribio Adaci Jr., who welcomed the foreign naval force headed by Rear Admiral Sompong Poowiang, said the RTN, with 500 of its finest naval crew, will conduct training with the Philippine Navy during the visit.

Poowiang and Commander Archarigaruth Noichinda also made a courtesy call at the office of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) on Thursday.

SBMA Chairman Wilma T. Eisma said the naval visit “is not only an opportunity for the Philippine government to further strengthen maritime relations with the government of Thailand, (but) is also a manifestation of the critical role that the Subic Bay Freeport plays in enhancing maritime cooperation between the Philippines and its allies.”

Adaci also underscored the significance of the visit as a “continuing effort to strengthen the relationship between our governments and navies.”

Poowiang conveyed his appreciation for the warm welcome and expressed his keenness in the scheduled engagements between the two navies during their stay.

Meanwhile, The JS Samidare (DD-106), a Murasame-class destroyer of the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF), will dock at Subic Bay's Alava Wharf for a goodwill visit from Friday to Sunday.

Captain Jonathan Zata, Philippine Navy spokesperson, said the ship will be dropping its anchor around 9 a.m. Friday (May 18).

JS Samidare will coming along with two SH-60K patrol helicopters and 200 officers and enlisted personnel.

This is the second visit of the JSMDF in the Philippines this year. The first one was when JS Ikazuchi (DD-107), another Murasame-class destroyer, came in late January.
sbm
The Murasame-class destroyer is the first class of the second-generation general-purpose destroyers of the JMSDF. (JRR/MPD-SBMA with report from PNA)

PHOTOS:

[1] The Royal Thai Navy’s frigate HTMS Taksin (FFG-422) and offshore patrol vessel HTMS Krabi (OPV-551) dock side by side at the Alava Wharf in the Subic Bay Freeport upon arrival on Wednesday for a goodwill visit in the Philippines until Saturday (MPD-SBMA)

[2] The Philippine Navy brass band welcomes officials and crew of the Royal Thai Navy’s frigate HTMS Taksin (FFG-422) and offshore patrol vessel HTMS Krabi (OPV-551) upon arrival at the Alava Wharf in the Subic Bay Freeport upon arrival on Wednesday for a goodwill visit in the Philippines until Saturday (MPD-SBMA)

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Japanese firm launches new line of robotic parts in Subic Freeport

Nidec-Shimpo Corporation (Japan), a leading innovator of precision-gearing solutions for robotics and industrial automation, formally launched its operations here on Wednesday, aiming to mass produce in its Subic factory a new line of robot components developed in Japan.

Nidec-Shimpo First Senior Vice President Hitoshi Inoue said the wholly-owned company of Japan’s Nidec Corp. and sister-company of Nidec Subic Philippine Corp. will initially build speed reducers for high-precision motion control applications at the rate of 10,000 to 25,000 units per month.

But the plant’s target production is expected to increase to 100,000 units per month at the end of this year, and to 120,000 units per month by March 2020, he added.

Inoue stressed that the gearless component parts to be produced in Subic are an entirely new product line that has not been manufactured elsewhere in the world. He described them as “super silent, and with zero backlash and smooth rotation.”

The Subic-made products will be exported to Spain, the United States and Germany, he added.

The launch of Nidec-Shimpo operations here was attended by Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Koji Haneda, Senator Richard Gordon, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Wilma T. Eisma, and Assistant Secretary Rafaelita Aldaba of the Department of Trade and Industry.

Haneda said Nidec’s expansion “demonstrates the continuing Japanese investor confidence in the Philippines’ business potential (and) shows the rigorous effort of Nidec to take advantage of opportunities and take on challenges to break new ground.”

He also cited the company for its skills development activities that make its workers “industry-ready and technology-capable.”

Meanwhile, Gordon said Nidec’s new project “shows the trust and confidence of companies like Nidec in the capacity of the Filipino workers, and in our government’s consistency in our rules and regulations.”

“We should have more companies like Nidec in Subic,” he added.

On the other hand, SBMA Chairman Eisma noted that Nidec-Shimpo’s operation here “will further promote Subic’s stature in high-end manufacturing, improve the proficiency of local workers in technology, and, of course, bolster the local economy by increasing exports.”

Eisma also praised Nidec-Shimpo for sending local workers to Japan for training.

According to Inoue, the firm had sent a total of 100 Filipino workers to Japan as the first batch of trainees to learn the technology involved in producing precision motors and speed reducers. Of these, 70 had finished the course, and Nidec had again sent another 46 trainees for the second batch.

Inoue added that Nidec intends to hire more personnel at the Subic plant on top of the 100 workers it will employ in the first year of operation.

He pointed out that the Subic factory’s monthly product capacity of P120,000 units is greater than the combined capacity of Nidec’s plants in Kyoto, which was at 30,000 units in 2018, and in Ueda, which is expected to reach 50,000 units in 2019. (HEE/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTOS:

[1] Nidec-Shimpo Senior Vice President Hitoshi Inoue (left) explains how a high-precision speed reducer works to Sen. Richard Gordon and SBMA Chairman Wilma T. Eisma during the opening of the Nidec-Shimpo manufacturing plant at the Subic Bay Freeport on Wednesday. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

[2] Sen. Richard Gordon, along with SBMA Chairman Wilma T. Eisma and other guests, views precision products manufactured by Nidec-Shimpo during the opening of the company’s manufacturing plant at the Subic Bay Freeport on Wednesday. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

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US Marines, AFP begin "Kamandag 2" military exercises at Subic Bay

Subic Bay — The 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade (3d MEB) and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) opened exercise KAMANDAG 2 with a ceremony at the Subic Bay International Airport on Monday (October 1).

KAMANDAG 2 will take place October 1 to 10, 2018, at multiple locations on the island of Luzon.

KAMANDAG 2 is an exercise between the Republic of the Philippines and the United States which also features participation from Japan.

The Philippine-led exercise will include military-to-military exchanges between the AFP and U.S. forces with a focus on counterterrorism and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief capabilities.

KAMANDAG 2 will enhance cooperation and interoperability between Philippine and U.S. forces as part of both countries’ commitments to support each other as friends, partners, and allies.

Service members will practice humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, an amphibious landing, live fire training, close air support, jungle survival training, urban operations training, and combat lifesaving during KAMANDAG 2.

“In its first iteration last year, KAMANDAG gave rise to many inaugural advancements between our militaries,” said Brig. Gen. Chris A. McPhillips, 3d MEB Commanding General. “I’m looking forward to all that we’re going to achieve together this year.”

The U.S. and Philippines will partner for a variety of community relations events during KAMANDAG 2. Engineering and construction projects are ongoing at a school and two daycare centers in Ternate, Cavite. While in Ternate, U.S. and Philippine military medical teams will teach hundreds of Ternate residents about lifesaving skills, disease prevention, and dental hygiene. 

Participants in exercises like KAMANDAG 2 develop lifelong friendships and connections that bring the U.S. and Philippines closer together as friends, partners, and allies.

KAMANDAG is an acronym for the Filipino phrase “Kaagapay Ng Mga Mandirigma Ng Dagat,” which translates to “Cooperation of Warriors of the Sea,” highlighting the partnership between the Philippine and United States militaries.

KAMANDAG 2 will increase overall U.S. and Philippine readiness, improve combined responsiveness to crises in the Indo-Pacific region, and strengthen both countries’ decades-long partnership. (US Embassy)

PHOTO:

Brigadier General Chris McPhillips, Commanding General of the 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade, Major General Nathaniel Casem, Inspector General of the Philippine Navy, and Brigadier General Melquiades Ordiales, Deputy Commandant of the Philippine Marine Corps, open exercise KAMANDAG 2 during a ceremony at Subic Bay International Airport. (https://www.dvidshub.net/feature/KAMANDAG)

https://ph.usembassy.gov/us-marines-and-armed-forces-of-the-philippines-launch-exercise-kamandag-2/

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President Duterte visits Japan’s largest military ship in Subic

SUBIC BAY - President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Saturday, September 1, 2018, toured one of Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force’s (JMSDF) Escort Flotilla Four ships, which is the JS Kaga (DDH-184), docked at Alava Pier in Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

Accompanying the President were National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Special Assistant to the President Secretary Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go, Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief-of-Staff General Carlito Galvez Jr., and Philippine Navy Flag-Officer-in-Command Rear Admiral Robert Empedrad.

Also present were Japan’s Parliamentary Vice Minister of Defense Keitaro Ohno, Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Koji Haneda, and JMSDF Escort Flotilla Four Commander – Rear Admiral Tatsuya Fukuda.

Upon boarding the JS-Kaga (DDH-184), one of Japan’s largest military ships, the Commander-In-Chief was given foyer honors by Japan’s Escort Flotilla Four crew. He then proceeded to the flight deck for a photo opportunity.

After visiting the flight deck, the Chief Executive signed the guest book and proceeded to meet with the Japanese delegation. President Duterte continued his tour after the private meeting.

Apart from the JS-Kaga (DDH-184) with five SH-60K patrol helicopters, two more Japanese destroyers, the JS-Suzutsuki (DD-117) and the JS-Inazuma (DD-105) consisting of around 850 officers and crew, are currently docked at the Alava Pier for a five-day goodwill visit to the Philippines.

This is Japan’s way to enhance its operational capability, promote cooperation, and facilitate interoperability with partner navies in South Asia and Southeast Asia. (PND)

PHOTOS:

[1-2] President Rodrigo Roa Duterte is accorded with honors by the Naval crew of Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force’s Escort Flotilla Four upon boarding the JS Kaga (DDH-184) helicopter carrier Japanese ship, which is anchored at the Alava Pier in Subic, Zambales on September 1, 2018. Accompanying the President are Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Carlito Galvez Jr., Sec. Bong Go of the Office of the Special Assistant to the President, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Japan’s Parliamentary Vice Minister of Defense Keitaro Ohno, and Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Koji Haneda. ALFRED FRIAS/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

[3] The JS Kaga (DDH-184), Akuzuki-class destroyers JS Suzutsuki (DD-117), and Murasama-class JS Inazuma (DD105) arrived at Alava Port in Subic Bay Freeport at around 8 a.m.

https://pcoo.gov.ph/news_releases/president-duterte-visits-japans-largest-military-ship-in-subic/

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President Duterte visits Japanese escort Flotilla in Subic

President Rodrigo Duterte visited on Sunday, June 4, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) Escort Flotilla One comprised of helicopter carrier JS Izumo and guided missile destroyer JS Sazanami berthed here in Subic Bay Freeport for a four-day port visit to the Philippines.

In an interview with media, President Duterte said he was happy to board the JS Izumo, noting the state-of-the-art ship that can respond to both conflict and humanitarian missions.

Duterte added that he is the first head of state to board the JS Izumo, which was commissioned in 2015.

Japan has been a historical friend of the Philippines helping the country in different ways particularly through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

Japan is also providing the Philippines with defense assets such as ships and trainer planes, he said.

"Our ties with Japan is historical and I know that we will be with them for all time. They can count on our gratitude for helping us and also our friendship to fight with them," he told reporters.

"We have so many problems in this world and I said we are friends, historical ones. We have a lot to say thank you to you. And I’d like Japan to know that we are a people of gratitude," he added.

Aside from visiting JS Izumo, the President also met Katsuyuki Kawai aboard the Japanese helicopter carrier. Kawai is Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's special adviser.

The Japanese contingent is headed by Rear Admiral Yoshihiro Goka, the commander of the JMSDF Escort Flotilla One. The JS Izumo together with several patrol helicopters and 800 officers and crews are here for a goodwill visit to the Philippines prior to its participation to the Malabar Naval exercise in India.

The four-day visit includes a series of confidence building activities between the Philippine Navy and the JMSDF personnel.

The Escort Flotilla One's port visit is expected to enhance the strong relationship between the Philippine Navy and the JMSDF. (PND/PNA)

PHOTOS:

[1] President Rodrigo Duterte is escorted by Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Martin Diño and Administrator Atty. Wilma Eisma during the chief executive's tour aboard the biggest Japanese helicopter carrier JS Izumo docked at the Alava Port in Subic Bay Freeport Zone. (JRR/MPD-SBMA)

[2] President Duterte poses with his officials and the visiting officers and crew of the JS Izumo. (JRR/MPD-SBMA)

[3-4] The helicopter carrier JS Izumo (DDH-183) (top) and the Japanese destroyer JS Sazanami (DD-113) (bottom) of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) Escort Flotilla One, both docked in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone for a four-day visit to the Philippines. (RBB/MPD-SBMA)

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/993315

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Japan's largest naval ship to visit Subic Bay in June

Helicopter carrier JS Izumo, one of Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force’s largest vessels, will pay a visit to the Philippines this coming June.

“The JS Izumo, the largest of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force’s vessel, will be visiting Subic Bay, Philippines this coming June and we’re looking forward to that visit,” Philippine Navy (PN) flag-officer-in-command Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph Mercado said after the turnover ceremony of the two Beechcraft King Air TC-90 aircraft in Sangley Point, Cavite on Monday.

Japan's helicopter carrier JS Izumo (DDH-183)

Mercado said the PN was still planning possible events with the Japanese ship and personnel.

“We are still planning whatever activities that we are going to have with them, but definitely they are going to allow the visit by some of our troops to have an idea of that particular vessel,” Mercado aid.

He also said that he was able to board the ship during a recent visit to Japan.

The construction of the JS Izumo began in 2011 at an IHI Marine United shipyard in Yokohama, with 113.9 billion yen (USD1.5 billion)funds set aside in 2010 budget.

Ships of this class were initially intended to replace the two ships of the Shirane class, which were originally scheduled to begin decommissioning in 2014.

JS Izumo, weighing 27,000 long tons and measuring 248 meters long, is the largest Japanese naval vessel since World War II.

She was laid down on Jan. 27, 2012 and launched on Aug. 6, 2013. The ship began sea trials on Sept. 29, 2014 and was commissioned on March 25, 2015. (Priam Nepumuceno, PNA)

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Proposed Subic-Clark Railway project listed in forthcoming PHL-Japan trade, infrastructure talks

The Philippines and Japan are set to begin a new round of discussions on trade and infrastructure late this month, according to the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda).

The high-level meeting, which will take place in Tokyo, is part of the commitments of Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe when he visited the country in January.

The Subic-Clark Railway Project is part of the #BuildBuildBuild program of the Duterte Administration

Neda Secretary Ernesto M. Pernia said the discussions will include finalizing the projects to be funded by the Japanese government.

One infrastructure project that could be discussed in the meeting is the hotly contested Subic-Clark Railway project, which is being eyed for funding by both the Chinese and Japanese governments.

The P35.044 billion worth project involves the construction of a 65-kilometer cargo and passenger standard gauge railway.

Envisioned to be a “speed train”, the project will traverse the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway and the Subic Freeport Expressway.

“The project will connect Subic to the major economic hubs in Central Luzon. The project can decongest Metro Manila by transferring portions of business activity to Clark and Subic,” the Neda documents stated.

On the trade side, it is known that the Philippines has a bilateral trade agreement with Japan, the Japan–Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (Jpepa).

The Jpepa agreement was signed in Helsinki in 2006 and was ratified by the Philippine Senate in 2008.

In 2015 the Department of Agriculture (DA) said the Philippines is seeking to bring down tariffs for sugar once a review of the Jpepa begins.

Based on figures from Japan Customs, tariffs for cane sugar range from 18.9 percent to 26 percent.

Agriculture Undersecretary Segredo R. Serrano said the Philippine government is also asking Japan to lower tariff for other agricultural products, such as processed food, fish products and tropical fruits, including bananas, mangoes and pineapples.

In 2007 the DA estimated that the Philippines would earn some $419 million in potential revenues from farm exports under the Jpepa. The department said the amount represents the tariff cuts due that will be implemented under the free-trade scheme. (Cai Ordinario, BusinessMirror)

http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/proposed-subic-clark-railway-project-listed-in-forthcoming-phl-japan-trade-infrastructure-talks/

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SBMA set to attract more Japanese investors to Subic Bay

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) is eyeing more Japanese companies to invest inside this premier freeport after the agency bagged a contract with Japanese company Subic Smart Community Corporation (SSCC) to upgrade the Subic golf course.

SBMA Administrator Atty. Wilma T. Eisma said that the upgrading of the Subic golf course will play an integral part in attracting more tourists to the Freeport.

The Subic Bay golf clubhouse 

“When we first envisioned the Subic Freeport during its initial stage, we were thinking of making this into a port city like Singapore. Aside from the usual port operations like cargo and bulk handling, we imagined Subic Freeport as a tourist haven for local and international tourists alike,” she said.

The SBMA has approved a $30-million investment for the upgrade of the Subic Bay golf course by the SSCC. According to Masafumi Miyamoto, the company will develop Subic Bay golf course into a world-class venue for tournaments and a housing facility for the elderly and retirees.

Miyamoto is the founder of the Smart Community Co., Ltd., the first and largest continuing-care retirement community in Japan.

The two-pronged development project is touted as a potential major asset in the Subic Freeport. The first part is the $3-million renovation and redevelopment of the whole golf course within the span of two years.

The renovation will include the clubhouse, sprinkler systems and repair of ponds, improvement of the greens and the upgrade of machinery and equipment such as golf carts and service vehicles.

Miyamoto said the golf course will remain in operation despite the renovation, leaving open a minimum of nine holes.

The second part of the development project is the $27-million expansion of all areas for the Subic Smart Community within a six-year period. This will include the construction of 200 residential units within the span of two years.

Another 1,800 residential units will be added, including various amenities such as a gym, a sports center, arts and crafts studios, karaoke or music rooms, function rooms, library and bars and restaurants.

The plan to create residential areas is part of Miyamoto’s proposal for Japanese retirees after a market study showed that Japan’s elderly care businesses rose to a whopping $252-billion in 2015. (JRR/MPD-SBMA)

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Japanese, American warships docked in Subic Bay

Two Japanese warships arrived in Subic Bay Wednesday (January 4) morning, joining five other U.S. navy ships docked in this Freeport since new year's day.

The Murasame-class destroyer JS Inazuma (DD-105) and Akizuki-class destroyer JS Suzutsuki (DD-117) of the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) docked at the port of Subic for a three-day visit.



The ships are part of the Escort Division Four, commanded by Captain Atsushi Minami. JS Inazuma is commanded by Cdr. Soichiro Tashiro, while Cdr. Kentaro Nakayama commands the Suzutsuki.

This is the fourth port call of Japanese warships in Subic Bay. Japan's maritime force made its first goodwill visit to the Philippines after 15 years in early April last year with its submarine JS Oyashio (SS-511) and two destroyer ships, the JS Ariake (DD-109) and JS Setogiri (DD-156) docking in Subic Bay, followed by the visit of Hyūga-class helicopter destroyer, JS Ise in late April, 2016.



In the meantime, five U.S. ships docked and welcomed the new year here, to the delight of business establishments and residents in this former US Naval Base.

The USS Pecos, USNS Tippecanoe, USNS Cesar Chavez, USNS Impeccable and USNS Bowditch arrived without much fanfare nor announcement by the US Embassy in Manila.

In Manila, the Russian anti-submarine destroyer Admiral Tributs, along with the sea tanker Boris Butoma, anchored at South Harbor on Tuesday for a week long goodwill visit.

The Philippine Navy welcomed the two Russian warships, coinciding with Manila’s expressed readiness to shift from relying on the US as its sole and dominant partner in the Western Pacific.

The Russian marines are expected to discuss and share tactics to help combat terrorism and piracy in the region. Moscow is also eager to conduct joint military exercises with its Philippines counterparts in the future.

“There will be courtesy calls, tour of historical places within Manila and nearby Cavite province, capability demonstration, goodwill games, wreath laying, shipboard tour and send-off ceremony among others,” Capt. Lued Lincuna, a spokesman for the Philippine Navy, said.

Lincuna also noted that this is the third time a contingent of the Russian Navy has visited the Philippines. But it is the first visit by Russian navy ships since Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte assumed office last June. Russian ships docked in the Philippines in May 2016 and in January 2012. (SNL, with reports from Subic Bay News and RT.com)


PHOTOS:
[1] The Murasame-class destroyer JS Inazuma approaches the Alava pier of the Subic Bay Freeport in Zambales for a routine port call Wednesday (January 04) morning. Another Japanese warship, the JS Suzutsuki, an Akizuki-class destroyer also docked in this premier industrial port facing the West Philippine Sea for a 3-day port visit. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

[2] Sailors aboard the US Navy supply ship USNS Cesar Chavez hoist an American flag as the JS Inazuma approaches the Alava pier of Subic Bay Freeport zone in Zambales for a routine port call Wednesday (January 04) morning. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)


Subic Bay News: 5 US Ships Welcome New Year in Subic

https://www.rt.com/news/372611-russian-warships-visit-philippines/

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Japanese helicopter carrier docks in Subic Bay for goodwill visit

Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) Hyūga-class helicopter destroyer, JS Ise (DD-182) arrived today at the Alava Pier here in Subic Bay Freeport for a four-day goodwill visit.

This marks the third time a Japanese naval vessel docked in the Philippines. Commanded by Captain Masaki Takada, JS Ise is one of the most modern ships of the JMSDF.

The goodwill visit aims to strengthen maritime relationship between the JMSDF and the Philippine Navy and promote regional peace and stability.

JMSDF delegates are set to visit the San Antonio, Zambales-based Naval Education and Training Command (NETC) which is commanded by Rear Admiral Renan C. Suarez.

Visiting navy personnel will engage with their Filipino counterparts, particularly those assigned at NETC through shipboard tour on the Japanese ship and visit at NETC facilities.

The ship was built by IHI Marine United and commissioned into service on March 16, 2011. It is the second ship to be named Ise, the first being the Imperial Japanese Navy World War II-era battleship Ise. (SNL)

PHOTOS:

[1] The JS Ise (DDH 182) a Japanese helicopter carrier of the Japan Maritme Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) is being towed by tugboats as it approaches the Alava pier of Subic Bay Freeport zone Tuesday morning (April 26) for a four-day goodwill visit to the Philippines. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

[2] Japanese chopper crew gamely lifts a lady reporter with the rescue hoist of a Seahawk SH60K-ASW helicopter aboard the JS Ise during a shipboard tour for covering media while the ship is moored at the Alava pier of Subic Bay Freeport. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

Filipino dock workers await the Japanese helicopter carrier JS Ise (DDH 182) as it approaches

the Alava pier in Subic Bay Freeport Tuesday morning (April 26) for a four-day goodwill visit to

the Philippines. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

Japanese carrier on goodwill visit to PHL

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT – The arrival here of the Japanese helicopter carrier JS Ise (DDH 182) on Tuesday is purely a goodwill visit to the Philippines and is not connected in any way to the growing tension in the West Philippine Sea because of Chinese claims over disputed islands and shoals.

This was the message stressed by Capt. Masaki Takada, commanding officer of the Japanese ship, during a media interview after the naval destroyer warship and helicopter carrier docked at the Alava Pier here.

Masaki denied that the visit was meant to counteract the growing presence of China in the disputed areas. He added that they are just here for a goodwill visit, along with some “rest and relaxation.”

The ship was welcomed by the Philippine Navy, led by Flag Officer in Command (FOIC) Capt. Samuel Felix, who said that the ship officials will make a courtesy call on Rear Admiral Renan Suarez, commander of the Naval Education and Training Command (NETC) in San Antonio, Zambales.

Felix, who is also the deputy commander of the NETC, will lead the interaction between Philippine Navy men and their Japanese counterparts, which aims to strengthen the relationship between the two maritime forces.

Felix said that crewmen of Ise would visit the NETC facilities in Zambales, while NETC sailors would have a shipboard tour of the JS Ise.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Robert Garcia also welcomed the arrival of Japanese sailors, saying that he hopes they enjoy their visit to Subic.

Garcia said the Subic Bay Freeport is fast becoming a tourism site as well for military personnel, as more foreign military forces arrive for routine port calls.

“Subic Bay is not just a staging area or port of call for foreign forces; it is also one of the top tourist destinations in the country. Here, visitors — whether civilians or military — always enjoy their stay,” he added.

The Subic Freeport was once a “rest and recreation” area for American military forces when it was still the biggest US military installation outside of continental United States.

Areas such as the Grande Island and the All Hands and Dungaree beaches were usually full of US military men who spent their free days relaxing under the sun.

The visit of JS Ise marked the third time that Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force vessels made a port call in the Philippines this year. Previous visitors were the Minesweeper Division 51 on March 2 and the submarine Oyashio (SS-511) along with two destroyer ships on April 3. (JRR/MPD-SBMA)

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Japanese carrier docking at Subic port for goodwill visit

The JS Ise (DD-182), one of the most modern ships of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) will be docking at Subic port this coming Tuesday, April 26.

The goodwill visit aims to strengthen maritime relationship between the JMSDF and the Philippine Navy and promote regional peace and stability.

Hyūga-class helicopter destroyer JS Ise (file photo c/o https://www.pinterest.com/bingal0/warship-aircraft-carriers/?from_navigate=true)

It also aims to enhance maritime cooperation amid China’s aggressive action on disputed territories in the South China sea.

Commissioned on August 21, 2009, the JS Ise of JMSDF is the second largest carrier ship that has a capacity to carry and house four rotary-winged aircraft. She weighs 13,950 tons and can cruise at speeds beyond 30 knots.

A Hyuga-class helicopter destroyer, the ship is also the second to be named Ise, the first being the Imperial Japanese Navy World War II-era battleship Ise.

The vessel was built by IHI Marine United and commissioned into service on March 16, 2011. It is commanded by Capt. Masaki Takada.

During the post-typhoon Haiyan disaster relief efforts in the Philippines, JS Ise assisted the country as part of the Japan Self defense Force’s Operation Sankai.

Philippine Navy spokesperson Lt. Cmdr. Marineth Domingo, meanwhile, said they will render the customary welcome ceremony upon the arrival of the vessel to be followed by a port briefing aboard ship.

Takada will also hold a press briefing upon arrival at the said port.

During the visit, JMSDF delegates will visit the San Antonio, Zambales-based Naval Education and Training Command which is situated about 613 kilometers distance from South China sea. (Franco G. Regala, Manila Bulletin)

http://www.mb.com.ph/japanese-carrier-docking-at-subic-port-for-goodwill-visit/#MyjWqhhRt8YzKKTM.99

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Japanese warships visit Subic Bay

Japanese submarine JS Oyashio (SS-511), along with two destroyer ships JS Ariake (DD-109) and JS Setogiri (DD-156), docked here in Subic Bay this morning (April 3) for a goodwill visit to the Philippines that will conclude on April 6.

JS Oyashio, skippered by Cdr. Nishioka Tetsuo, represents the Training Submarine Division 1 of the Japan Maritime self Defense Force (JMSDF). JMSDF Division 1 is headed by Capt. Hiroaki Yoshino.

Crewmembers of the Japanese submarine JS Oyashio (SS-511) stand on deck as their vessel approaches the
Alava Pier of the Subic Bay Freeport on Sunday. The Oyashio, escorted by the destroyer ships JS Ariake
(DD-109) and JS Setogiri (DD-156), arrived here for a goodwill visit to the Philippines. (AMD.MPD-SBMA) 

On the other hand, JS Ariake and JS Setogiri, skippered by Cdr. Yoichi Kuruzoe and Cdr. Fumihito Takeshita respectively, compose the JMSDF's Destroyer Escort Division 15 headed by Capt. Hurihiko Morisita.

Capt. Samuel Z. Felix, Philippine Navy deputy commander of Naval Education and Training Command (NETC), representing the Flag Officer in Command, led the country's delegation who welcomed the visiting Japanese forces at the Alava Pier in Subic Bay Freeport.

A Philippine Navy marching band welcomes the Japanese destroyer ship JS Ariake (DD-109) as it docks at the
Alava pier of the Subic Bay Freeport on Sunday, March 3. The Ariake, along with another destroyer, the
JS Setogiri (DD-156), served as escorts to the Japanese submarine JS Oyashio (SS-511). (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

In a press statement, Capt. Lued Lincuna of the Naval Public Affairs office said the visit is expected to enhance the already strong relationship between the Philippine and Japanese navies.

At the same time, it fosters committed cooperation between the two nations which benefits regional peace and stability, Lincuna said.

A series of confidence-building activities between the visiting navy and their Filipino counterparts, particularly Philippine Navy personnel assigned at NETC in Zambales, will be conducted.

These activities range from shipboard tour of the Japanese ships, to goodwill games of football and basketball. (RBB/MPD-SBMA)

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