SBMA Authorizes SBITC to Collect Wharfage Fees at Port of Subic

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and the Subic Bay International Terminal Corporation (SBITC) have formalized an agreement authorizing SBITC to collect wharfage fees on behalf of SBMA from port clients.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño and SBITC Head of Management Services and Government Affairs Henry Dungca signed the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on July 29, 2026, at SBMA’s Building 662. The partnership aims to streamline payment processes through SBITC’s online payment platforms.

Aliño emphasized the benefits of the new system, stating, “This arrangement will minimize face-to-face interactions, eliminate the need for clients to travel to SBMA’s cashier, and reduce waiting times for fee processing. Ultimately, it simplifies doing business at the Port of Subic.”

He added, “The MOA strengthens our public-private collaboration, securing essential revenue to sustain port operations, infrastructure, and future investments. It also reinforces Subic Bay’s status as a top logistics hub. It boosts investor confidence as we advance plans for the Luzon Economic Corridor, integrating Subic, Clark, Manila, and Batangas into a seamless trade gateway.”

Dungca highlighted the operational impact, saying, “SBITC will collect wharfage fees on behalf of SBMA and ensure transparent, accountable remittances. This partnership goes beyond payment collection; it enhances service speed, simplifies procedures, and improves the overall experience for all port users.”

SBMA oversees the regulatory framework within the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, while SBITC, a subsidiary of International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI), manages the New Container Terminals (NCT-1 and NCT-2). Last October, SBMA granted SBITC a 25-year concession extension, allowing them to operate the terminals through 2058.

This initiative aligns with SBMA’s adoption of a payment collection system similar to that implemented by the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), in which port operators collect fees on the government’s behalf. (MPD-SBMA) 

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SBMA grants ICTSI a 25-year extension of its concession at the Subic Container Terminal

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has granted the subsidiaries of International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI) permission to extend the operation of the New Container Terminals (NCTs) for another 25 years. 

The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed at the ACEA Subic Beach Resort in Subic Bay Freeport on October 3, 2025, for the “25-year Extension of Contract for the Operation and Management of the NCT.” 

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño stated that the ICTSI subsidiaries, Subic Bay International Terminals Corp. (SBITC) and ICTSI Subic Inc. (ISI), will continue to operate and manage the New Container Terminals 1 and 2 (NCT-1 and NCT-2).

Aliño and ICTSI Executive Vice President Christian Gonzalez both signed the MOA, witnessed by SBITC Vice Chairman Juan Miguel Delgado and SBMA Director Honorio Allado III. The MOA will enable the SBITC and ICTSI to operate and manage NCT-1 and NCT-2 until 2058. 

SBITC plans to invest over USD$130 million in civil infrastructure and additional equipment as part of its investment and development plan under the extended concession. 

These will include the replacement of the terminal’s four existing quay cranes and acquisition of one additional quay crane, increasing the total to five, as well as the integration of more hybrid rubber-tired gantry (RTG) cranes. 

According to Gonzalez, these investments will further enhance terminal capabilities, boost operational efficiency, and increase the combined annual capacity of NCT-1 and NCT-2 from 600,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) to one million TEUs.

“We are thankful to SBMA for trusting us and treating us as the right partner to continue until 2058. Across all the 30-plus terminals we operate around the world, no matter how difficult the place, no matter how challenging, the one thing that represents the trust in ICTSI and the partnership with the local authorities–the government and the regulators–is seeing your contract extended,” he added. 

The NCT serves as a critical international shipping gateway for industries in Central and Northern Luzon, including the economic zones of Subic and Clark. Part of the expansion and upgrades includes the SBITC’s increase in reefer plug capacity to 1,000 by the end of 2025 to support cold chain logistics.

Recent additions to its fleet include near-zero emission (NZE) rubber-tired gantry cranes, tractors, and trailers to improve terminal efficiency. Plans are also underway to automate gate operations by early 2026 and implement a new digital platform for online payments and truck appointments. (MPD-SBMA) 

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SBMA keeps Subic Freeport locators abreast on logistics automation, other services

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) held a Locators’ Forum at the Subic Bay Travelers Hotel on May 26, 2025 with 170 locators in attendance.

According to SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño, the Subic Bay International Container Terminal Corp. (SBITC), SBMA Seaport Department, and SBMA Trade Facilitation and Compliance Department (TFCD) collaborated to stage the forum, which was also graced by SBMA Director Cecile Bobadilla-Bitare.

During the forum dubbed “Updates on Logistics Services, Port Projects and Automation,” Senior Deputy Administrator for Port Operations Ronnie Yambao cited in his opening message the ₱233-million state-of-the-art Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS) launched in February 2024. The VTMS significantly improved the safety and operational efficiency of vessel tracking across the Freeport.

Yambao added that the agency is in the initial stages of procurement to implement the Shore Power Connection project, which would reduce air pollution from ships at berth by 95 percent.

“Phase 1, focusing on the New Container Terminal, is set to commence in 2026 with a budget of ₱100 million, followed by Phase 2 covering the Naval Supply Depot and Ship Repair Facility from 2027 to 2028, requiring P150 million,” he said.

He also mentioned the numerous port expansion projects with a total approximate budget of US$878.7 million, including a new Container Terminal 3 with a capacity of 300,000 TEUs, estimated at US$359 million; a multipurpose terminal at Redondo Peninsula, valued at US$162 million; a multipurpose terminal in Lower Mau, supporting bulk and break-bulk industries, costing US$182 million; and a dedicated cruise terminal to boost tourism, with an investment of ₱10.2 billion.

Furthermore, he added that the SBMA is enhancing its logistics capabilities to support multi-modal transport.

“The Freeport boasts a modern container terminal with a capacity of 600,000 TEUs, expandable to one million TEUs, and is accessible by land, sea, and air. Plans include integration with the Luzon Economic Corridor via railway,” he said.

The official also stated that the SBMA has implemented various automation initiatives to streamline cargo movement and enhance efficiency, including the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA), Electronic Transit Admission Permit System (ETAPS), and Automated Export Documentation System (AEDS).

The agency is also considering a partnership with the Port of San Diego to transform Subic Freeport into a smart port city.

“This collaboration aims to integrate artificial intelligence, automation, break bulk cargo handling, shore power connections, cruise ship terminal development, and ship repair capabilities,” he said. (MPD-SBMA)

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Attempted smuggling of P140-M contrabands foiled in Subic Bay Freeport

Attempted smuggling of contraband valued at P140 million was foiled on Wednesday at this premier Freeport. 

According to Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño, the items were seized thru the vigilance of the agency, Bureau of Customs (BOC) Port of Subic, and the Department of Agriculture (DA).

During the presentation to the media on Wednesday at the New Container Terminal (NCT), Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel and BOC Port of Subic District Collector Atty. Ricardo Uy Morales II opened a total of seven 40-footer container vans.

The two officials presented the first five container vans containing fresh carrots and fresh yellow onions from China. According to Laurel, the shipment was declared to contain a total of 13,250 cartons of frozen fresh fish egg balls. 

The shipment was consigned to the Betron Consumer Goods Trading and arrived here on August 15, 2024 from China.

He added that the five container vans were found to contain 5,784 cartons of fresh carrots, 9,742 sacks of fresh yellow onions, and 320 cartons of frozen fresh egg balls. He also cited that the smuggled vegetables have a total fair market value of P21,082,752.

According to the BOC, the possible violations of the consignee are having no certificate of product registration issued by the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) for the frozen fresh egg balls; no Sanitary and Phytosanitary Import Clearance for the fresh carrots; and the undeclared shipment of fresh carrots and yellow onions. 

The two other 40-footer container vans, consigned to the Subic All N1 Corp., were declared to contain 2,153 packages of tissues. The container vans arrived in Subic Freeport on August 13, 2024, with Taiwan as the country of origin.

Collector Morales said that the two container vans actually contained 167 packages of tissues, 993 master cases of Bros Premium Class A cigarettes, and 993 master cases of Commando Filter, Kings Finest, and Virginia Blend cigarettes. 

Morales shared that the total fair market value for the smuggled items were priced at P115,509,839.67, adding that the violations committed by the aforementioned consignee include: no valid Certificate of Registration and Tax Exemption from the SBMA; and expired registration/ accreditation from the BOC since March 20, 2020.

He added that the consignee has no Import Commodity Clearance Issued by the National Tobacco Administration (NTA), and is not included in the 2022 list of licensed importers of tobacco products.

Chairman Aliño said that the total value of the smuggled items that were presented to the media on Wednesday amounted to P136,592,591.67. The agency chief commended the vigilance of the government agencies involved in safeguarding the country from illicit materials.

“Our mandate is in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s thrust of ensuring that smuggled items do not proliferate in the country. The SBMA, the BOC Port of Subic and the DA will continue to man the gates of the Philippines and bar the entry of smuggled items into the country,” he added. (MPD-SBMA)

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Subic container terminal gets new China service

The Subic Bay International Terminal Corporation (SBITC) at the Port of Subic has added a new service that offers a direct link between the Philippines and China.

Operated by Macrocean International Shipping, the CX1 service makes weekly calls to SBITC and Manila International Container Terminal to provide manufacturers and traders in Northern and Central Luzon with a fast and efficient connection to key Chinese ports.

The service sails through the following ports: Manila North Harbor – Subic – Xiamen – Shihu – Weitu.

The CX1 service comes nearly a year after SBITC added the South China Vietnam Philippines (SVP) feeder service South China Vietnam Philippines (SVP) feeder service to its list.

The service was inaugurated by Danum 175, a 1,200-TEU boxship operated by Emirates Shipping Line (ESL), in June last year. It signaled the expansion of the Port of Subic’s connectivity to South China and Vietnam.

ESL operates the SVP service together with ASEAN Sea Line (ASL) and Pacific International Line (PIL). ESL is a new player in the Philippine market.

The SVP service rotation is as follows: Shekou – Nansha – Xiamen – Manila North – Subic – Xiamen – Shekou – Nansha – Ho Chi Minh – Shekou.

In March, ONE announced it would start to call at Subic Bay on its China Thailand Philippines (CTP) service.

With a turnaround time of 28 days, the service rotates through the following ports: Laem Chabang (Thailand), Cai Mep (Vietnam), Manila (Philippines), Subic (Philippines), Qingdao (China), Pusan (South Korea), Shanghai (China), Laem Chabang.

SBITC now caters to more than a dozen weekly services and major shipping lines. (SNL) 

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SBMA bullish over Subic seaborne trade with MSC maiden call

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) is expecting a stronger position in regional seaborne trade this year following the maiden port call here last Wednesday of the shipping giant Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), as well as the revived port visit of the Taiwanese shipping line Wan Hai.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Wilma T. Eisma said the weekly port calls here of MSC, the world’s largest shipping company in terms of capacity, will further boost Subic’s trade capacity, which already generated US$1.58 billion in imports and US$1.03 billion in exports last year.

“My dream for the Subic Bay Freeport is for it to be among the top 50 biggest ports like Shanghai or Singapore. The fact that MSC, which is now the world’s largest container shipping line, chose Subic to be in its trade route not only gives Subic access to the world and vice versa, but also brings us one more step closer to that goal,” Eisma said.

She added that this year, the SBMA aims to generate an import value of US$1.77 billion and export value of US$1.42 billion, as the global economic effects of the Covid-19 pandemic begin easing down.

MSC, which operates in all major ports in the world, began its Subic schedule to expand its Seahorse Service loop in Southeast Asia with the voyage of the MSC Sotiria III to Subic on Feb. 23. The 2,475-TEU container ship arrived at Subic’s New Container Terminal after a swing to the port of Manila on Feb. 21.

The maiden port call was attended by MSC general manager Pankaj Patki, SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator for Operations Ronnie Yambao, Subic Bay International Terminal Corp. (SBITC) CEO Justin C. Tolentino, and representatives of various shipping and logistics agencies and clientele.

Patki said the MSC Seahorse Service trade loop will call on Subic on a weekly basis with three container ships on rotation to provide comprehensive port coverage within Asia.

“MSC feels that there is a huge potential for growth, and we would like to cater to customers in this region who currently have had to travel all the way to Manila to load their cargoes,” Patki said, adding that more ship calls in Subic will be established in the near future.

The MSC Seahorse Service trade loop includes Tanjung Pelepas, Singapore, Manila, Subic, Kaohsiung, Vung Tau and then back to Tanjung Pelepas. Singapore and Tanjung Pelepas in Malaysia both serve as major transshipment hubs for the Swiss shipping line and connect the rest of the Asian trade loop to Western and European trade services.

SBMA’s Yambao, meanwhile, pointed out that MSC is the 25th shipping line to service the port of Subic.

“This is an important milestone for Subic Bay and the shipping industry in general because it is an opportunity for the Freeport to be known globally in terms of logistics capability,” he said.

Yambao added the MSC is expected to service the needs of business locators not only in Subic, but also in Clark, Bataan and the rest of the economic zones in north Luzon.

MSC’s arrival came after the return of Wan Hai Lines, a Taiwanese company which previously cancelled its port rotation here due to the Covid-19 pandemic. It recently reopened its Subic Express Service (SES) route that includes Shekou, Subic, Batangas, Manila, Cebu, Taichung, Kaohsiung, and Hong Kong.

The port of Subic currently has a container cargo capacity to 600,000 TEUs and also caters to different types of cargo like grain, dry bulk, and oil and petroleum.

The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) 2021 report indicated the “predominance of Asia as a leading maritime freight area.” It said that in 2020, Asian ports loaded around 4.4 billion tons of goods, or over 41.3% of total goods loaded in ports worldwide, and received 7.0 billion tons, or 65.5% of total goods discharged worldwide. (MPD-SBMA)

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SBMA conducts emergency exercises to ensure port security

Port stakeholders inside this premier special economic zone periodically conduct simulation exercises to test emergency response capability and plans, as well as further hone systems and procedures for various emergency scenario.

The latest was the Port Security Emergency Response Exercise at the New Container Terminal (NCT) to test procedures and contingency plans for security breach.

SBMA Seaport Department Safety Specialist Diego Aviles said the exercise was spearheaded by the SBMA and implemented with the Subic Bay International Terminal Corporation (SBITC), which operates the container port.

The exercise was observed by the PNP Maritime Group 3, the Coast Guard Olongapo Substation, as well as representatives from the Leyte Port Facility, SRF Port Facility, SSTI Boton Port Facility, and PPC Boton Port Facility.

“The exercise is part of the goal of the SBMA Seaport Department to ensure port security,” Aviles said, pointing out that the program has four objectives that must be met: activate port security advisory committee (PSAC) in the Port of Subic; test the capabilities of emergency responders; test communications and coordination; and check resource availability and response.

The exercise scenario placed a moving craft that was sighted at the waters near the NCT. Whereupon the Subic Port Communications called the attention of the watercraft via radio communication for proper identification, but failed.

"As the craft reaches the NCT port, the Port Communications should alert the port facility safety officer (PFSO), including the SBMA Law Enforcement Department," Aviles said.

Aviles said that participants of the simulation exercise “passed with flying colors,” as all concerned offices put out the appropriate quick response to the security threat.

Early on, the SBMA and various stakeholders in the maritime sector also conducted an Oil Spill Simulation Exercise at the Boton Wharf to strengthen capabilities in emergency response.

Aviles said the exercise successfully tested the capabilities of the Boton port facility, as well as identify concerns and needed resources to sustain the oil spill response operation, activate the Seaport Emergency Response Team, and measure the deployment of the oil spill equipment and response time.

The SBMA Seaport Department said that at least nine shipping lines regularly make ship calls in the Subic, which also receives port visits by military ships from time to time. The increasing number of ship-calls due to growing container traffic here calls for top-notch port security procedures and emergency action plans, SBMA officials said. (MPD-SBMA)

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SBMA bans bikers at container terminal road, issues rules for road safety

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has prohibited bikers from using the New Container Terminal (NCT) road here in a move to maintain safety at the thoroughfare used mainly by cargo trucks. 

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Wilma T. Eisma announced this policy following consultation with cycling groups in the Subic Bay Freeport area and the formulation of guidelines covering biking activities in the Freeport.

“We regret to inform bikers that the NCT Road is now off limits to bikers because we have to place a premium on the safety of all—whether they are bikers, truckers, or ordinary motorists,” Eisma said.

“We know that it has become a favorite place among bikers because the road is good and the route is scenic, but we have to set rules to prevent untoward incidents,” she added, referring to an accident during an illegal race at the NCT Road last month.

The NCT Road, which stretches northeast of the Subic Bay International Airport, was closed to bikers since June 19 when an illegal race organized by some bikers from Olongapo City resulted in a spill involving several bikers as they converged on one lane to overtake a cargo truck.  A 14-year-old biker was among those reportedly injured.

Eisma said that bikers may instead use the San Bernardino Road that starts at the junction of the Argonaut Highway and Corregidor Road and loops around the airport area. “That area southwest of the airport, from the Acea Subic Beach Resort until the All Hands Beach Resort, is as scenic but not as busy,” she pointed out.

The allowed route, however, stops short of the New Container Terminal (NCT) and bikers must turn back to exit at the same entry point.

The SBMA has imposed a fine of P2,000 for cyclists violating the ban at the NCT Road, Eisma said.

At the same time, the SBMA issued guidelines for safe biking in the Freeport.  These rules, which took effect on July 14, include ID checks at Freeport gates upon entry, use of safety gears and lights, maintenance of safe distance, road courtesy and traffic rules, and observance of health and safety protocols at all times.

The guidelines specifically disallowed racing and also prohibited crowding at bike stops, as well as littering.

On the other hand, Eisma said that should bikers like to organize cycling events in the Freeport, the SBMA would require them to submit a proposal at least six months before the scheduled event, which would also be subject to IATF approval.

Meanwhile, volunteer marshals from local cycling groups would help monitor and enforce the biking rules. The marshals would be in direct contact with the SBMA Law Enforcement Department for effective monitoring and response, Eisma added. (MPD-SBMA)

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Innovative lifting solution enhances ICTSI Subic operation

Subic Bay International Terminal Corp. (SBITC), a unit of International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI) operating at the Subic Bay Freeport, successfully handled the first Flat Rail operation in the Philippines with the loading of a brand-new catamaran on a CMA CGM vessel.

SBITC, operator of the New Container Terminals 1 and 2 at Cubi Point, performed the carefully planned operation in collaboration with Peters & May, an international freight forwarder and yacht transport specialist, and Bespoke Load Solutions, patent owner of the Flat Rail System used to load the cargo onto the ship.

The Flat Rail System uses a simple and innovative solution that enables the shipping of out-of-gauge cargo with dimensions that exceed the specifications of 40-foot flat racks.

“The Flat Rail System consists of two beams which are secured to the flat rack with twist-locks. With lifting points at the end of each beam, the complete unit load can then be loaded using slings attached to the spreader of the container gantry crane,” explained Chris Steibelt, Bespoke Load Solutions Development Manager.

He adds: “Typically, a Flat Rail shipment will be in the range of 12 to 15.5 meters long and the width blocks the corner castings. The system can safely accommodate payloads of up to 44 tons.”

Using Flat Rails, the catamaran was loaded onto a single 40-foot flat rack. The process was simplified into two moves–first, sea to berth, and second, berth to vessel after the cargo is lashed to the flat rack and Flat Rail. Traditionally, without the rails, the shipment would require at least six flat racks. The catamaran would be loaded as breakbulk and lashing would be done on board the vessel. This method is significantly less efficient and more costly for the shipper because of the larger vessel space occupied by the cargo, and longer port stay as a result of extended loading time.

“SBITC has demonstrated its capability and flexibility to safely and efficiently handle complex shipments such as this. We have eight more catamarans on the way, and we are confident that we could further improve our process and deepen our partnerships with other businesses that require customized service to expand their markets,” said Roberto Locsin, SBITC President and General Manager.

Built by full-service yacht agent Asia Pacific Marine – Subic, the 14.3-meter, twin hull vessel is export-bound for the Maldives. The shipment is the first of 10 catamarans commissioned by an exclusive resort group operating in six continents.

“We intended to deliver the catamaran in brand-new condition. With the guarantee by SBITC that they can safely handle our cargo, we know it is the best option for us,” said Miguel Ramirez, Asia Pacific Marine Managing Director.

Yacht shipping remains an uncommon service in the Philippines with importers and exporters opting to discharge and load their boats in nearby countries before sailing them directly to and from the Philippines. SBITC hopes the success of this particular project would eventually pave the way for yachts to be transported using Philippine ports. (SNL)

PHOTO:

Innovation. The 14.3-meter long catamaran is loaded onto a 40-foot flat rack fitted with a pair of Flat Rails at both ends.

https://www.ictsi.com/press-releases/innovative-lifting-solution-enhances-ictsi-subic-operation

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Canada trash shipment leaves PH

The chairman of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has lauded the reshipment of trash from Canada Friday, saying it was a joyous occasion. Sixty-nine trash-filled container vans that have been languishing in the Philippines for over half a decade are finally en route to where they came from: Canada.

The Maersk's MV Bavaria docked in Subic Bay around 3 p.m. Thursday, and left past 7 a.m. Friday.

Aside from the garbage, the ship also has 150 shipping containers as it is taking the regular commercial route.

MV Bavaria will make a stop in Taiwan before heading straight to the port of Vancouver in Canada where it is due to arrive on June 22. Canadian media reports have said the garbage will be incinerated in Burnaby.

MV Bavaria is expected to arrive at the Port of Vancouver in Canada on June 22. Local Canadian Press reported, once back in Canada, the garbage will be burned in a waste-to-energy facility in Burnaby.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Wilma Eisma said the departure of the unwanted shipment was a momentous occasion.

"We thank President Rodrigo Duterte for his decisive action that brought about a satisfactory conclusion to this sordid chapter in our history. This is one proud moment for all Filipinos," she said in a statement.

She noted that the SBMA documented the whole procedure from the time MV Bavaria docked in Subic’s New Container Terminal-1 to the loading of the containers Thursday to the ship's departure.

Groups celebrated the event, saying they were "jubilant" after the ship left port.

“We feel jubilant that 69 containers of Canadian rubbish are now homeward bound after being stranded here for so long,” said Aileen Lucero, National Coordinator, EcoWaste Coalition. “The Philippines is not the world's dumpsite. Never again shall we allow other countries to trash our dignity, our people's health and the environment.”

Kathleen Ruff of RightOnCanada, a rights advocacy campaign based in the North American country, said it was a "victory for the environment and a victory for the rule of law."

“The Canadian government is now finally going to comply with the Basel Convention and take responsibility for its own wastes. This is what environmental responsibility means," said Ruff.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro "Teddyboy" Locsin Jr. said Canada paid for fumigation, ship side loading, and shipping, which was estimated to cost around P10 million.

The International Container Terminal Services Incorporated waived all costs on land.

MV Bavaria is expected to arrive at the Port of Vancouver in Canada on June 22, after a stopover in Taiwan. Local Canadian press reported the garbage will be incinerated in Burnaby.

The 69 container vans of trash are what remains of the more than 2,500 tons of waste illegally shipped in batches in 2013 and 2014 by Canadian company Chronic Plastics Inc. The company declared the trash in 103 container vans as "recyclable plastic scraps."

Customs officials earlier said the contents of 34 container vans have already been disposed of.

Environmental activists from Ecowaste Coalition, however, said only 26 container vans have been accounted for. They called on the government to disclose where the contents of the eight other container vans were dumped

The Manila Regional Trial Court is still hearing cases on alleged violations of environmental and customs laws against Canadian firm Chronic Plastics and customs brokers involved in smuggling the garbage. (CNN Philippines)

PHOTOS:

[1] The port in Subic Bay in the Philippines where a transport vessel, MV Bavaria, is berthed to load waste (theguardian.com) 

[2] SBMA Chairman & Administrator Wilma T. Eisma speaks with journalists after witnessing the departure of MV Bavaria from the Port of Subic. (MPD/SBMA)

[3] MV Bavaria sails out from the Port of Subic, together with 69 containers of mixed household waste sent by a Canadian private company to the Philippines in 2013 and 2014 (CNN Philippines)

http://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2019/5/31/sbma-canada-trash-reshipment.html


SBMA'S OFFICIAL STATEMENT ON THE PULLOUT OF CANADIAN TRASH FROM SUBIC BAY


"Finally, the containers of garbage transported from Canada and stored at the Subic Bay Freeport for several years now have been pulled out as of today, May 31, 2019.

"A total of 69 garbage-laden containers — 67 of which have been in Subic for the past few years, and 2 recently brought in from Manila — were loaded onto MV Bavaria, a Liberian-flagged container ship commissioned to transport the containers back to Canada.

"The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority documented the whole procedure — from the docking of the ship at Subic’s New Container Terminal-1 in the afternoon of May 30, to the loading of all the 69 containers last night, and up to the departure of the vessel from Subic Bay early this morning.

"We thank President Rodrigo Duterte for his decisive action that brought about a satisfactory conclusion to this sordid chapter in our history.

"This is one proud moment for all Filipinos."

Atty. Wilma T. Eisma
SBMA Chairman & Administrator

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SBITC installs reach stackers to enhance Subic port operations

The Subic Bay International Terminal Corporation (SBITC) has added four reach stackers to ensure efficient port operations and optimize container yard space of the Subic port terminal.

The installation of reach stackers is part of the terminal operator’s initiative to further enhance its capacity in handling unladen containers from the surge of imports, after being assigned as an empty evacuation center last year.

“Our investments in global standard port equipment and systems help in maintaining robust operations in NCT 1 & 2 to meet the needs and demands of our partners. These firm up our position as a competitive international gateway for industries in the freeport area and the North and Central Luzon region,” said SBITC.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Wilma T. Eisma welcomed the private terminal operator’s efforts in boosting the capacity of Subic as a major transhipment hub.

She said the SBMA has also started last year the rehabilitation of roads leading to the Subic Container Terminal and other major piers in the Subic Freeport in order to increase port-related activities here.

“Together with SBITC and the Bureau of Customs, we have also set up One-Stop-Shop document processing in the terminal to further enhance efficiency and customer service in the port,” Eisma added.

SBITC said the reach stackers which arrived at the terminal this month will be fully operational by April. Each stacker will have a load capacity of 45,000 kg and can stack up to five containers high.

The port currently has seven reach stackers for yard and vessel operations. SBITC said that there will be two more improvements within the first half of 2019.

“We are expecting two more equipment to arrive in the coming months. This is only the first leg of the improvements planned for the year,” SBITC said.

Subic Bay International Terminal Corporation is one of the leading port operators in the world which leverages on fast, reliable, and cost-efficient system. It is the container port operator of the Subic Freeport Area in Subic, Zambales, and serves the industries in Northern and Central Luzon. (MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:

INCREASED EFFICIENCY. The reach stacker, which can lift, shift and stack empty containers, will augment port’s ability to securely and efficiently pile containers to optimize container yard space. (MPD-SBMA)

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ICTSI Subic hits 200,000-TEU target

International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI)’s subsidiary Subic Bay International Terminal Corp. (SBITC) has expected that container volume will further grow this year, after hitting its milestone 200,000th twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEU) move last December.

SBITC President Roberto Locsin said SBITC, which operates the New Container Terminals 1 and 2 at the Subic Bay Freeport, capped 2018 with a milestone after reaching its 200,000th TEU move last December 23.

“We are proud of reaching this latest milestone. More than hitting our targets, this new record highlights Subic Bay International Terminal’s capability to continuously outpace market growth, and readiness to serve the vibrant Subic Freeport market,” he said.

The event was marked by the offloading of a milestone CMA CGM steel box from MV Sinar Sangir.

He said this achievement was made possible through their customers, the collaboration of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and other stakeholders, and more especially through their passionate, humble and committed workforce.

“Along with further investments in port equipment and systems, we continue to work hand-in-hand with our customers to improve the efficiency of our operations and processes, and inevitably make their experience a more pleasant one,” he added.

Subic Bay International Terminal, one of the country’s most technologically-advanced box terminals, has an annual capacity of 600,000 TEUs.

The increasing volumes at the Subic Bay Freeport have enabled ICTSI to streamline and interface the operations of New Container Terminal (NCT) 1 and 2.

The merged operations were ready to serve an improving local economy in Central and Northern Luzon regions, alongside with its continued support to facilitate the box market of Metro Manila.

In 2007, under the Subic Port Development Project, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) awarded ICTSI subsidiary SBITC the concession for NCT 1, with commercial operations commencing in 2008.

In 2011, under the Subic Port Project’s second phase, SBMA awarded ICTSI Subic Inc. the concession to operate NCT 2. (Manila Times)

PHOTO:

The event was marked by the offloading of a milestone CMA CGM steel box from MV Sinar Sangir. (photo from ICTSI)

https://www.manilatimes.net/ictsi-subic-hits-200000-teu-target/499980/

Read more --> https://www.ictsi.com/media-center/our-releases/2019/01/ictsi-subic-hits-milestone-200-000th-teu-move/

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Subic Port ready for peak season

Subic Bay International Terminal Corp. (SBITC), the container operator of Subic Freeport Area, assured that the company is prepared for the expected surge in cargo volume this peak season.

In a statement Tuesday, SBITC said it is already seeing the rush in imports and exports which is typical for the holiday season.

“The country’s appetite for imported goods is typically highlighted during the Christmas holiday up until Chinese New Year. With a healthy GDP (gross domestic product) outlook, we can expect this trend to remain a key driver in container volume growth in the months to come,” SBITC said.

It noted that cargo volumes in Subic port recorded growth for 13 straight months.

SBITC added that Subic port is also prepared to accommodate shipments initially destined for Port of Manila.

“Businesses in North and Central Luzon benefit most from our services, but we have seen shipments destined not only for Manila, but in Visayas and Mindanao as well. SBITC works with other ports in the Philippines to ensure operational excellence is attained as goods move through these key markets that are in and out of the Philippines,” the company said.

It added that Subic port also offers one-stop-shop service to ease and fast-track transactions.

“From enough space and manpower to increased efficiency through our One-Stop-Shop, our terminal is ready to accommodate the surge of cargo handling services not just this holiday peak season, but well into 2019 and beyond,” SBITC said.

“Recently, we have confirmed further investments in port equipment and systems to continuously outpace market growth. This allows the terminal to remain healthy from a utilization standpoint which we continue to deliver to our customers both at the quay and our gates,” it added.

Goods that pass through Subic port include agricultural equipment, grains, fertilizers, electronic parts, and general department store merchandise for North and Central Luzon businesses. (SNL)

Photo:

Cargo unloading at SBITC's New Container Terminal (NCT) at the Port of Subic.  

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Statement on the Issue of Canadian Trash in the Subic Bay Freeport

The Canadian wastes that have found their way into the Subic Bay Freeport Zone are a nagging concern that bedevils the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority.

For one, these Canadian wastes have been classified as hazardous as per Toxic Substances and Hazardous and Nuclear Waste and Control Act of 1990, or Republic Act 6969, and their transport to the Philippines is in contravention of the Basel Convention on the Control of Trans-boundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal, of which both the Philippines and Canada are a party to.

Second, it should be noted that the 23 container vans of hazardous wastes from Canada that arrived in Subic were just part of the 741 freight boxes transferred here by the Bureau of Customs in August 2014 in an effort to decongest the Port of Manila.

However, even with the discovery of hazardous wastes inside, little has been done by concerned parties in the interim to remove these items that were brought here illegally, and are now posing potential harm to the local environment and its people.

At the moment, eight of the original 23 containers remain at Subic’s New Container Terminal-1, as 15 others have been shipped for disposal at the Metro Clark Waste Management Corporation’s landfill in Capas, Tarlac in 2015. The remaining eight freight boxes are supposed to be sealed tight from within and without, but could we be sure that they won’t eventually leak the longer they remain in Subic stockyard?

For its part, the SBMA has called out this problem as early as 2015. We have demanded the removal of these hazardous wastes from the Subic Bay Freeport then. Now, as public attention has re-focused on this issue, we again call on concerned parties to re-examine our position on this matter.

Specifically, should Subic continue to suffer the unintended consequences of its effort to help decongest Manila? Should the Philippines be allowed to become a dumpsite for foreign trash? Should we be a party to some violation of an international accord that was specifically designed to prevent the transfer of hazardous wastes from developed to less-developed countries?

Clearly, we need to work out a solution to this problem. And we need to seal out the loopholes that had caused this problem in the first place.

We therefore join the Filipino nation in calling for the return of these wastes back to their Canadian shipper, and urge concerned parties to step up measures to ensure and hasten this end.


Wilma 'Amy' T. Eisma
Chairperson & Administrator

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Port efficiency to attract more shipping lines, users to Subic

International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI) continues to make a strong case for the Subic Bay Freeport as a key international trading gateway of the Philippines after achieving productivity levels at par with that of the Manila International Container Terminal (MICT).

Two Panamax quay cranes at the New Container Terminal (NCT) 1 recently handled close to 400 twenty foot equivalent units (TEU) with each crane averaging 40 and 33 moves per hour, respectively. The productivity levels were achieved during the inaugural call of Evergreen Marine Corp.’s 1,440-TEU boxship Cape Fulmar.

Cape Fulmar berthed at the New Container Terminal 1 in Subic Bay Freeport Zone

The call signaled the start of Evergreen’s South Korea-Taiwan-Philippines (KTP) service, a new route to facilitate improving regional trade between the three economies. The service plies the ports of Incheon and Kwang Yang, South Korea; Kaohsiung, Taiwan; and Batangas, Manila and Subic Bay, Philippines. Aside from Cape Fulmar, 1,440-TEU boxship Cape Faro is also chartered to the weekly service.

“It was a great effort and a big win for ICTSI’s Subic operations. This goes to show that Subic is at par with the productivity levels in MICT. We are continuously working on improving our services to attract more shipping lines, and for northern and central Luzon businesses to use the container terminals in Subic,” says Roberto Locsin, Subic Bay International Terminal Corp. (SBITC) President.

He adds: “As a national port operator, ICTSI ensures that each Philippine marine terminal under its helm remains competitive. Subic, in particular, was developed not only for the industrial locators of the Freeport but for the local markets in Luzon north of Metro Manila.”

MICT, ICTSI’s flagship terminal, primarily serves the Metro Manila market and its adjacent markets, where most of the economic activities of the country happen being the country’s capital. “Metro Manila as a market will continue to grow,” says Locsin.

“But, as the northern and central Luzon countryside develops driven by industrial centers like Subic, Clark, Bataan and Tarlac also continuing to grow, the Subic Bay Freeport is that gateway ready to link its products to global markets. We have the equipment and facilities. We carry ICTSI’s brand of service and efficiency,” he adds. (Manila Bulletin)

http://business.mb.com.ph/2017/05/08/port-efficiency-to-attract-more-shipping-lines-users-to-subic/

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SBITC services largest ship to call at the Port of Subic

Subic Bay International Terminal Corp. (SBITC) recently serviced the largest container vessel to call at the New Container Terminals 1 & 2 at the Port of Subic, the APL Tourmaline.

The Singaporean vessel is part of American President Line’s (APL) Manila Express Service (MNX), which features weekly direct calls to Subic Bay and Manila’s North and South Port. The service starts from Kaohsiung, Taiwan then heads to Subic Bay and Manila in the Philippines, before returning to Kaohsiung.

The APL Tourmaline during its maiden call at New Container Terminal 1 of the Port of Subic

The service also connects the Philippines to Japan through Kaohsiung via APL’s Japan-Thailand-Vietnam (JTV) and Japan-Thailand 2 (JT2) services.

With a length overall of 294.11 meters and capacity of 4,500 TEUs, APL Tourmaline replaces the 259.80-meter long, 4,330-TEU capacity APL Bahrain as the largest vessel to be serviced by SBITC. APL Bahrain made its maiden call to the Port of Subic in 2010.

The vessel highlights the port’s capability to handle large ships and increased container traffic as more businesses start using Subic for its logistical advantages.

SBITC is a subsidiary of International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI). ICTSI is in the business of port operations, management and development. ICTSI’s portfolio of terminals and projects spans developed and emerging market economies in the Asia Pacific, the Americas, Europe and the Middle East, and Africa. ICTSI has received global acclaim for its public-private partnerships with governments divesting of their port assets to the private sector. (Manila Bulletin)

http://www.mb.com.ph/sbitc-services-largest-ship-to-call-at-the-port-of-subic/

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ICTSI offers Subic port to ease Port of Manila congestion

THE International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI), operator of the Manila International Container Terminal (MICT), is renewing its proposal of an infrastructure “master plan” to the Duterte administration to improve the flow of trade in the country’s key port.

Speaking to reporters at the sidelines of the Management Association of the Philippines’ (MAP) 14th International CEO Conference, ICTSI Senior Vice President and Head of Asia Pacific Operations Christian Gonzalez suggested a holistic approach to facilitate goods inflow into the country.

Christian R. Gonzalez, ICTSI Senior Vice President and Asia Pacific Region Head

“We all need roads, we know how many cars there are in the streets and public transportation needs to be improved. What we’ve heard from the current government is positive because they intend to build more roads, but they need to fast-track it. The critical one is really the roads,” Gonzalez said.

The establishment of a proper logistics network should be looked at outside of Metro Manila, such as in Subic port, where ICTSI operates Terminals 1 and 2 through its subsidiaries.

Aside from road infrastructure, creation of inland facilties, such as warehouses, can incentivize more businesses to use the Subic port instead of the crowded Manila port. These initiatives can encourage the shift of more cargo from the Port of Manila to Subic.

Last year ICTSI moved 100,0000 twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEUs) of cargo previously accommodated in Manila, to Subic. The Subic port’s installed capacity is at 600,000 TEUs.

The port operator is constrained from moving more because of the disjointed infrastructure network in the area.

Creating alternative modes to deliver cargo, such as water transport, and a dedicated railway track for cargo to connect Subic and Bataan, is also a welcome move, he said.

“If the government wants to talk about this, we are open to it,” Gonzalez said. (Catherine Pillas, BusinessMirror)

http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/2016/09/06/ictsi-offers-subic-port-to-ease-port-of-manila-congestion/

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Subic is cost-effective for businesses – SBMA

THE Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) said coursing cargo and shipments through the Subic Bay International Terminal Corp. (SBITC) is cost-effective.

“Subic is not expensive,” Roberto Garcia, SBMA chair said in a statement, explaining that transporting goods and shipments through the Subic port is cost-efficient due to the port’s strategic location.

Businesses will find themselves saving more because of the roads connecting to Subic, he added.

Garcia further explained that trucker costs are now more competitive in Subic as truck owners bank on the cargo volume that flows through the port.

“Travel time from the port to any point in Luzon has been cut in half because NLEX and SCTEX provide good roads. With that, truckers can complete two trips instead of one which means more business for truck owners in the region,” he explained.

Attesting to the port’s competitive and attractive rates, the costs incurred for trucking from Subic to nearby cities is about as much as the costs, if not cheaper, of transporting goods from other ports in Luzon. “Our advantage lies in our location,” Garcia emphasized.

“Travel time is one resource we cannot disregard, and by using the Subic port, the cargo owners are assured that their cargoes are transported in the most efficient way. Our location and road links will prove that,” he added.

“Cost is down by as much as one-third of the previous price, assuming you are traveling from Subic to Bulacan,” Garcia said.

According to Garcia, the decrease in trucking costs was made possible by the surge of cargos directed to the growing next wave cities in the provinces of Bulacan and Pampanga.

The Subic terminal has recently established port efficiencies such as the creation of a one-stop-shop for brokers and forwarders and investing in new equipment to ensure that the terminal delivers world-class service to its clients, the SBMA pointed out. (Raadee S. Sausa, Manila Times)

PHOTO:
Container ships docking at  NCT-1 of the Port of Subic (photo c/o SBITC)

http://www.manilatimes.net/subic-is-cost-effective-for-businesses-sbma/279520/

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Subic expects bigger cargo volume in 2016

WITH all the reforms that the seaport in Subic has implemented over the last few years, the volume of goods flowing in and out of the facility, deemed as the top international cargo shipping hub in Northern Luzon, should increase this year.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Roberto V. Garcia said the Port of Subic has shown “great potential, as more businesses utilize Subic as their entry point to the Philippines.”

Cargo unloading at the Port of Subic

“We anticipate a growth in volume as more and more companies capitalize on the services and facilities here and the much greater access and efficient transportation of goods the area provides,” he said.

Together with the Subic Bay International Terminal Corp. (SBITC), the SBMA has opened a one-stop shop (OSS) in its new container terminal (NCT) 1, significantly reducing port document processing time from one day to a mere four hours.

Roberto R. Locsin, general manager and president of SBITC, said that, with the recent upgrades, the port would be more efficient in handling the expected surge in cargo volume.

“The upgrades will ensure that our clients, both local and international, will receive world-class port service at the shortest turnaround time,” Locsin said.

The OSS also provides a designated lounge where brokers are given access to Wi-Fi and workstations. The company also recently acquired from Finland Generation G reach stackers that have a 45-ton lift capacity.

To date, the port offers cargo-handling services for both 20- and 40-foot containers, as well as the bigger 45-foot boxes for a full container load (FCL) and especially-handled cargo. The terminal also allows 10-day free storage for cargo exports and imports.

In 2015 SBMA introduced lower harbor and berthing fees resulting in a 75-percent increase in regular port calls from shipping companies that have been doing business in the area for years and new ones ready to take advantage of the latest opportunities.

With strategic business partnerships, trucker costs are now more competitive amounting to almost only a third of the previous price.

“Our seamless and cost-effective transfer of goods allows port users to maximize their business operations,” Locsin said.

With an annual capacity of 600,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), the terminal is projected to exceed last year’s 120,000-TEU cargo volume, now that more business enterprises from nearby Bataan and Clark Field in Pampanga course their cargo through Subic.

Garcia said his group believes that Subic is the best option for businesses that carry imported and exported goods to and from North and Central Luzon.

Garcia also noted that the SBMA has adopted a preadvise system for trucks to improve traffic flow in and out of the free-port zone. This system was first implemented in the Port of Manila and has already made significant improvements in minimizing the dwell times in the port. This is the same efficiency expected to benefit the companies in the Subic port.

“All of these developments in NCT-1 and 2 manifest our readiness to accept the much greater volume of cargo in the port,” Garcia said. “We continue to strive to deliver world-class service and management in our operations as part of our mandate and continued commitment to help drive economic growth in the country. The much greater volume will pose a completely new set of challenges.”

Subic has been making head-way in terms of transshipment and maritime logistics services, overshooting its 2014 port revenue of P908.6 million by 25 percent, with a P1.16-billion collection last year. The port has significantly grown in 2015, as it recorded a 123,558-TEU cargo volume, from just 77,618 TEUs in 2014. (Lorenz S. Marasigan, BusinessMirror)

http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/2016/07/30/subic-expects-bigger-cargo-volume-in-2016/

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