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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BoC Subic posts record collection

The Port of Subic district collection unit of the Bureau of Customs achieved last month its highest revenue collection performance in its 20-year history after generating P2.347 billion, or 12.8 percent over its target for the period.

The BOC district unit headed by lawyer Ma. Rhea M. Gregorio registered a surplus of P265.429 million, according to the data gathered on the revenue performance of the district. Its target was P2.082 billion.

This is the third consecutive month that the district achieved positive collections record since September when Gregorio assumed the post as district collector.

BOC Subic accomplished the double-digit revenue targets by upgrading trade facilitation and closer dialogs with both Subic Freeport locators and port users.

Subic raised P2.182 billion revenues on import duties and taxes in October, netting P87.733 million, or a surplus of 4.2 percent. (Joel E. Zurbano, Manila Standard)

http://manilastandard.net/business/power-technology/282110/boc-subic-posts-record-collection.html

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Subic BoC to implement ‘zero contact’ policy by Nov. 5

The Bureau of Customs will soon implement a “zero contact” policy in business transactions at the Port of Subic under the Enhanced Goods Declaration Verification System, or 1-Assessment System, which is designed to curtail corruption in processing cargoes and thus increase revenue collection for the government.

This was bared by Deputy Commissioner Jeffrey Ian Dy of the Management and Information Technology Group of the Bureau of Customs (BoC) during a dialogue with business locators, brokers and representatives of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) here.

The 1-Assessment project will start here on November 5, with Subic as one of the pilot ports in the country, while the program will be fully implemented nationwide starting the first week of January 2019, Dy added.

Under the new system, the broker or the shipper will be prohibited from visiting or talking to the BoC examiner or appraiser or any personnel of the BoC while the documents of the cargo are still being processed. Otherwise, a stiff penalty will be imposed upon the violating party, Dy added.

Meanwhile, brokers and BoC officials should only communicate through the 1-Assessment portal where all their messages regarding a particular cargo can be read by the BoC Commissioner or his authorized officers.

Dy explained that 1-Assessment is a web-based queue management software/application that provides bias-free assessment by randomly assigning appraisers and examiners to goods entering the Port of Subic from foreign countries.

Among the main objectives of the 1-Assessment program is to prevent corruption by institutionalizing the “Zero Contact Policy” in transacting business with the BoC. This is designed to suppress the “suki system” in the cargo clearance process with the random assignment of examiners and appraisers to a given goods declaration.

Dy stressed that the good news about 1-Assessment is the transparency in the processing of goods declaration using a first-in-first-out basis, where the assignment of examiners or appraisers is done automatically by computers without human intervention, except by the Assessment Chief in case the assigned examiner or appraiser reached is not yet available.

SBMA Deputy Administrator for Ports Marketing Ronnie Yambao welcomed the implementation of the new system, saying it will enhance the agency’s thrust to make business in Subic transparent and efficient.

“The 1-Assessment is a program of the national government that supports the vision of SBMA to provide efficient services to all of Subic locators, especially port users,” Yambao said during the forum.

He added that the implementation of 1-Assessment program will help prevent corrupt practices and attract more shippers to transfer to Subic port.

“This is a one-time big-time opportunity to change the culture and custom inside the BoC,” Dy concluded his presentation.

He said that BoC Commissioner Isidro Lapeña’s marching order for all BoC personnel was to eradicate corruption in the Bureau. (MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:

Some of the piers and wharves at the Port of Subic 

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SBMA signs business tie-up with Israeli port

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has established an alliance for cooperation with the Port of Eilat in Israel under an agreement signed during the historic four-day visit of President Rodrigo Duterte to the Jewish state.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Wilma T. Eisma signed the memorandum of agreement with Eilat Port Company Ltd. CEO Gideon Golber on September 4 during a ceremony witnessed by President Duterte and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the King David Hotel in Jerusalem.

Eisma said the agreement for the promotion of an all-water route between Subic and Eilat, which is the only Israeli port on the Red Sea, “will open up doors in the area of port development and innovation between the two countries.”

“It will also serve to increase port traffic and revenue for Subic Bay, since trade routes for the movement of goods between Eilat and Subic will be firmly established,” she added.

Under the agreement, SBMA and Eilat Port Company Ltd. will cooperate to generate new shipping business by promoting the all-water route between Subic and Eilat, as well as to develop links to support trade and investment.

Specifically, the two parties will cooperate in the areas of marketing, data interchange, market studies, modernization and improvements, training, and technological exchange.

Eisma also said that the cooperation alliance with Eilat will further cement Subic’s global standing as a sea port and hub for maritime trade.

According to Philippine Ambassador to Israel Nathaniel Imperial, it was Eilat’s Golber who proposed last April a partnership between Eilat and a Philippine port in order for the latter “to become the bridge of Israel to the rest of the Far East.”

Imperial then referred the offer to the SBMA chief last May, pointing out that the SBMA “can work with the Eilat Port management to learn more about technological innovations of Israel, which ensure the efficient and professional services of the port to its international clients.”

The Port of Eilat, which is located at the northern tip of the Gulf of Aqaba, is mainly used for trading with Far East countries, as it allows vessels from Israel to reach the Indian Ocean without sailing through the Suez Canal. It is also Israel’s gateway to South Africa and Australia.

Imperial said Eilat Port was developed in 1965 and was privatized in 2013, with control going to American businessman Joseph Nakash, owner of Arkia Israeli Airlines, The Sitai boutique hotels, Jordache Enterprises, and Nakash Group of America.

About 60% of Israel’s vehicle imports from Japan, China, India, Thailand and Korea now enter through Eilat Port, he added.

President Duterte, who became the first sitting Philippine president to visit Israel, said the Philippines would seek a “robust relationship” with the Jewish state in areas of economic development, trade and investments, labor, as well as defense, security, and law enforcement.

The Subic-Eilat agreement was among the 11 memoranda of understanding, 3 memoranda of agreement, and 7 letters of intent signed during a forum attended by Duterte in Jerusalem last Tuesday. (HEE/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:

SBMA Chairman Wilma T. Eisma (right) and Eilat Port Company CEO Gideon Golber (left) confirm their agreement for port cooperation, as Trade Secretary Ramon M. Lopez looks on approvingly. 

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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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SBMA pushes implementation of P10.2-B infra program

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) is vigorously pursuing for the implementation of the PHP10.2 billion six-year infrastructure development program to be funded under the national government’s Build-Build-Build program.

SBMA chairman and administrator Wilma T. Eisma said the projects are seen to improve the core business infrastructure here and sustain the attractiveness of the Subic Bay Freeport as a globally-competitive trade and tourism center.

“We are now bidding out six major projects to set into motion the execution of a PHP530-million program to rehabilitate, upgrade and develop roads and other public facilities in the Subic Bay Freeport,” Eisma said.

She said the six major projects form part of the SBMA’s PHP10.2-billion six-year infrastructure development program that will be funded by the national government and set for completion by 2023.

Eisma said this will be the first time for the SBMA to avail of national funding for infrastructure projects.

“But we feel justified not only because of the scope, but also because we’d like to think that these projects are investments on the part of the government,” she said.

Eisma cited the importance of the projects, saying these will help Subic sustain its position as one of the biggest revenue contributors among investment promotions agencies in the country.

The SBMA chief pointed out that since the Americans left in 1992, Subic has not seen any major investment in infrastructure rehabilitation and maintenance of basic facilities like roads and docks, which are essential to business operations here.

“Even the security fence that defined the area of the former Subic naval base has already deteriorated,” she said.

The nationally-funded projects for this year include various road rehabilitation work amounting to PHP369.7 million; Phase 2 of the Naval Supply Depot (NSD) road network project, at PHP75.8 million; installation of navigational buoys, PHP47.5 million; installation of new traffic control systems, PHP9.6 million; repair of El Kabayo Road, PHP9.3 million; and drainage improvement at Argonaut Highway, PHP18 million.

Other projects in the PHP10.2-billion infrastructure development program will be implemented in phases starting with PHP524.5 million in 2019; and then PHP573.1 million in 2020; PHP1.32 billion in 2021; PHP2.35 billion in 2022; and PHP1.4 billion in 2013.

The other components of the program are various seaport and airport development projects, road widening and extension projects, and the construction of an SBMA Corporate Center, which gets the bulk of the budget at PHP3.8 billion.

Eisma said the SBMA has scheduled the projects based on the immediacy of Subic’s needs as a maritime logistics hub, with the first projects encompassing roads, traffic controls, drainage, as well as buoys and other equipment, and to be followed by seaport and airport improvements, road expansion, bridge and overpass projects, and finally, the SBMA Corporate Center.

Meanwhile, SBMA will plow in a total of PHP781.8 million in five years under its own capital expenditure program to complement the nationally-funded infrastructure program.

One of the bigger projects under the SBMA program is the construction of a new perimeter fence in critical areas of the former U.S. military base, with PHP18 million in the first year of implementation and PHP42 million in the second year. (Malou Dungog, PNA)

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1046486

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SBITC, Royal Cargo team up for expansion

ICTSI subsidiary Subic Bay International Terminal Corp. (SBITC) has teamed up with Royal Cargo Inc. to provide seamless movement of goods to and from North and Central Luzon (NCL) and help small and medium-sized enterprises expand their operations.

The partnership between the two firms seeks to provide the business community in NCL a world-class and highly efficient fourth party logistics combination delivering superior customer service and attractive pricing.

Unloading at SBITC's Container Terminal 1 in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone

“The joint efforts of the terminal and Royal Cargo have increased cold-storage options that will improve the quality of refrigerated cargo coming in and out of the country in a fast and efficient manner. This creates opportunities within the value chain to allow local businesses to promote their market further outside of traditional centers like Manila,” SBITC president Roberto Locsin said.

“The north hub will take us one step closer to helping companies across the country achieve growth and expand the new markets such as the Asia-Pacific region. With SBITC, we are now able to provide a direct connectivity to major Intra-Asia and global ports which makes our operations a lot easier,” Royal Cargo president Elmer Sarmiento said.

According to SBITC, Subic’s terminal handling charges are 48 percent less expensive compared to other terminals despite being the first and only on-dock warehouse in Region 3 that can connect to NCL largest cold-chain facility operated by Royal Cargo.

“Businesses that ship via Royal Cargo can now take advantage of SBITC’s perks such as its one-stop shop service facilities and 10-day free storage period while enjoying the terminal’s world class container handling services, not to mention SBMA’s deferred payment of duties and taxes,” Locsin said.

SBITC said the completion of the Plaridel Bypass Road Phase 3 in Bulacan would also allow for faster delivery service, at the same time reduces travel time going in and out of the north hub.

“The best thing about this collaboration with Royal Cargo is its sustainable shipping services we can offer to the Filipino entrepreneurs in NCL despite their increasing logistics demands. NCL is a successful, strong business hub in the making and I couldn’t be more proud knowing SBITC is going to be part of that success,” Locsin said.

SBITC is a common-user, multi-purpose terminal, providing on and off-dock marine port cargo and container handling services in Subic Freeport Area. (Richmond Mercurio, The Philippine Star)

Read more at https://www.philstar.com/business/2018/08/15/1842569/sbitc-royal-cargo-team-expansion#JZsPxS69RjXTU6vu.99

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Swiss cruise line eyes Subic Bay Freeport

A Swiss cruise line has become the fourth international cruise line to make this premier Freeport its next destination.

MSC Cruises, which is part of the Mediterranean Shipping Company S.A. (MSC), the world's second biggest container shipping operator, is scouting the area because of the tourist spots in the Subic Freeport, as well as those found in the nearby communities.

MSC Cruises officials led by Port Operations assistant Ian Meachem met with Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority chairman and administrator Wilma T. Eisma recently to discuss the possibility of making Subic a part of its itinerary.

He was accompanied here by Antonio Calingo Jr., assistant general manager of Wallem Philippines Shipping, Inc., the leading ship agent in the Philippines.

In the meeting, Eisma briefed the visitors about local destinations and pointed out the places where most tourists from visiting cruise ships go during their stops here.

She added that the SBMA has plans to turn the coastal area of the town of San Antonio in Zambales into a cruise-ship docking area and resort destination.

Meachem noted that the tourist spots in and around the Subic Freeport appear interesting, especially to tour operators who want a little bit of everything. He added that certain requirements had to be met before the company commits to make Subic a part of their itinerary. (Ric Sapnu, SunStar)

read more --> https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1757281

Photo:

Dancers in colorful costumes welcomed the Ovation of the Seas during its maiden visit to Subic Bay Freeport. (AMD/MPD-SBMA) 

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Port users raise Subic collections by 46% in Q2

Hefty payments by port users in the Subic Bay Freeport resulted to an increase of 46 percent in customs collections in the second quarter of 2018, compared to total collections in the same period last year.

The Bureau of Customs at the Port of Subic (BOC-Subic) reported that it collected a total of P5.27 billion in April to June this year, compared to P3.6 billion in April-June 2017, or a difference of P1.66 billion.

Meanwhile, the 2018 collection figures also increased considerably from P4.8 billion in January-March 2018 to P5.2 billion in April-June 2018, or a difference of P429 million, for a growth rate of 8.85 percent.

Combined figures from the two quarters also gave BOC-Subic a total tax haul of P10.12 billion, which represents a 28.43 percent increase over the 2017 first semester total of P7.88 billion.

BOC-Subic’s newly appointed district collector Segundo Sigmundfreud Z. Barte Jr. attributed the increased collection following his appointment on April 27 to the “full support and cooperation of this Port to the plans and programs of BOC Commissioner Isidro S. Lapeña, and SBMA Chairman and Administrator Wilma T. Eisma.”

Eisma, meanwhile, cited the SBMA’s “long-standing cooperation with Subic Customs in going after those who seek to profit by illegal means” and recalled that joint operations by the SBMA Law Enforcement Department and the BOC-Port of Subic had resulted in the seizure of highly dutiable items like vehicles, wines and liquors, as well as imported rice.

“I’m glad that BOC personnel in Subic are very cooperative with the SBMA in curbing smuggling, as this illegal activity bleeds our economy dry,” Eisma added.

Barte also said that from January to June this year, BOC-Subic posted a total of P6.91 billion in revenue contributions from Subic’s Top 20 port users alone.

The top ten payers are: PTT Philippines Corp. with P1.43 billion, the highest revenue contributor so far this year; Cebu Air, Inc., P921.9 million; Micro Dragon Petroleum, Inc., P663.9 million; Marubeni Philippines, Corp., P456.9 million; RK3 International Trading, Inc., P446.5 million; High Glory Subic Int’l Logistics, Inc., P372.5 million; Warbucks Industries Corp., P341 million; Insular Oil Corp., P314 million; United Auctioneers, Inc., P310.3 million; and Murami Subic Trading Corp., P259.7 million.

The others are: Petron Corporation, with P216.7 million; Filoil Logistics Corp., P177.7; Masinloc Power Partners Co., Ltd, P162.9 million; Era1 Petroleum corp., P145.7 million; Nestle Philippines, Inc., P135.7 million; Rockoil Central Trading Corp., P130.9 million; Phoenix Petroleum Philippines, Inc., P130.9 million; Pilipinas Shell Petroleum, P114.3 million; PMFTC, Inc., P106.9 million; and Apollo Subic Int’l Trading Corp., P67.9 million.

Barte also said that BOC-Subic will prioritize its drive to meet or even surpass targets for the remaining months of July to December this year. He likewise vowed full support to the SBMA thrust of developing Subic into a global player in logistics. (RFD/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:

District Collector Segundo Sigmundfreud Z. Barte Jr. tells about growing customs collection in the Subic Bay Freeport during a media briefing organized by the SBMA on Monday. (MPD-SBMA)

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NFA starts unloading imported rice in Subic

The National Food Authority (NFA) started unloading imported rice from Thailand and Vietnam via the Subic Bay Freeport to reach intended destinations in Central Luzon and Cagayan Valley.

NFA Administrator Jason Aquino said in meeting here with Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Wilma T. Eisma that a total of 340,000 bags of premium rice arrived at the Port of Subic on board the cargo ship MV Tay Son 2 on June 5, but that unloading was delayed due to foul weather.

Another shipment consisting of 160,000 bags is expected to arrive here next week to complete the 500,000 bags or 250,000 metric tons scheduled for unloading via Subic Freeport.

Aquino said that 100,000 bags will be distributed in Cagayan Valley, while 400,000 bags will be distributed in Central Luzon. He added that with the arrival of the long-awaited rice shipments, the NFA is expecting a drop of from P1 to P2 in the price of commercial rice

However, the official clarified that only marginalized sectors, indigenous people, and NFA-accredited retailers endorsed by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) can avail of the imported rice at P27 per kilo.

Aquino also said that the rice importation was coursed through the government to government (G2G) procurement scheme in line with the call of President Duterte to fast-track the importation of rice to maintain food security in the country.

He noted that more than one million bags of imported rice intended for Metro Manila has already arrived, but could not be unloaded because of over-crowding at the Port of Manila.

SBMA Chairman Eisma, meanwhile, urged the NFA to use the Port of Subic more often, pointing out that that there is hardly any cargo traffic here, and that the Freeport is strategically positioned to serve as unloading point for goods destined to various point sin Luzon.

She also expressed appreciation to NFA officials for making Subic an NFA discharge port for its rice importation program.

NFA Administrator Aquino, accompanied by NFA spokesperson Rex Estoperez and other NFA Zambales provincial officials, called on Eisma at the SBMA office on Wednesday morning before proceeding to inspect the rice shipment at Subic’s NSD Pier. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTOS:

[1] Workers unload imported rice at a warehouse in the Subic Bay Freeport on Wednesday, as the NFA started distributing imported rice to Cagayan Valley and Central Luzon. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

[2] NFA Administrator Jason Aquino and NFA Spokesperson Rex Estoperez confer with SBMA Chairman Wilma Eisma on the unloading of imported rice at the Subic Bay Freeport. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

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Bigger cruise ships now calling at Subic Bay Freeport

The Subic Bay Freeport has entered the next level in its cruise ship tourism program, as bigger and more luxurious vessels began making port calls here this week.

MS Ovation of the Seas, the latest in the Quantum-class cruise vessels of the Royal Caribbean International cruise line, arrived here on Friday for its maiden port call.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Wilma T. Eisma noted that the Ovation of the Seas was the biggest ship to ever dock in Subic in its long history as a naval facility.

“This ship is huge, even bigger than the so-called super-carriers of the US Navy that used to dock here when Subic was still a military base,” Eisma pointed out.

“So, as you can see, we have now taken this cruise ship program several notches higher. We started in February this year with Costa Atlantica, which has a passenger capacity of just over 2,000, and now we have this—Ovation of the Seas with almost 5,000 passengers and crew,” she added.

“We are glad that in its own little way, Subic is able to help in the national government effort to raise tourist arrivals in the country and generate more income for local people,” she added.

The Ovation of the Seas is an 18-decker ship that measures 348 meters long, has a gross tonnage of 168,666, a maximum occupancy of 4,905 passengers and, along with its sisters Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Sea, is considered the sixth biggest cruise ship in the world today.

To accommodate cruise ship passengers who wanted to visit tourist attractions in Subic and nearby communities last Friday, organizers had to field more than 50 tourist buses, the SBMA said.

Two days earlier, MS World Dream, owned by Genting Hong Kong Ltd., also docked at Subic’s Alava Wharf for a day-long stay in Subic.

World Dream, which has a capacity of 3,400 passengers, is listed as the 19th biggest among the cruise ships in operation today.

Eisma said more cruise ships can be expected here, as the Subic agency is undertaking facility development projects to further improve port services, allow the handling of bigger maritime vessels, and boost port income.

She said the SBMA and the national government have allocated a total of P135.8 million for the port infrastructure development program.

“With the completion of these three port projects by next year, we expect to see more attractive and more efficient port facilities, more customers coming in, and more income for the port,” Eisma added.

According to SBMA Tourism Department manager Jem Camba, at least 20 cruise ship arrivals have been calendared here for this year. These include three arrivals each for the month of June, July and August.

Another Royal Caribbean vessel, the Voyager of the Seas, has been scheduled to arrive here in August.

Camba said that cruise ship arrivals significantly boost local income as cruise ship passengers visit local attractions in Subic, as well as nearby communities in Olongapo City, Zambales and Bataan.

“Local communities, as well as business establishments in the Freeport, definitely earn a lot from the arrival of cruise ships because the passengers buy local products, eat at restaurants and sample local cuisine, and enjoy themselves at the various tourism establishments in and around Subic Bay Freeport Zone,” she said. (HEE/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTOS:

[1] MS Ovation of the Seas, a Royal Caribbean International cruise ship, docks at the Alava Wharf during its maiden port call in the Subic Bay Freeport on Friday, June 8. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

[2] Subic residents and SBMA employees welcome the arrival of MS Ovation of the Seas, a Royal Caribbean International cruise ship, which made its maiden port call in the Subic Bay Freeport on Friday, June 8. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

[3] Dancers in colorful costume provide welcome gaiety at Alava Wharf during the arrival of MS Ovation of the Seas, a Royal Caribbean International cruise ship, which made its maiden port call in the Subic Bay Freeport on Friday, June 8. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

[4] SBMA Chairman and Administrator Wilma T. Eisma welcomes a passenger from MS Ovation of the Seas, a Royal Caribbean International cruise ship, which made its maiden port call in the Subic Bay Freeport on Friday, June 8. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

[5] A throng of mostly Chinese tourists disembark from MS Ovation of the Seas, a Royal Caribbean International cruise ship, which made its maiden port call in the Subic Bay Freeport on Friday, June 8. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

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LOOK: MV World Dream arrives in Subic Bay

The cruise ship MV World Dream prepares to dock at the Alava Wharf for its maiden port call in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone on Wednesday morning (June 06).

Street dancers in native Ayta costume perform as they welcome the arrival of the cruise ship MV World Dream, which made its maiden port call in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone on Wednesday morning (June 06).

Passengers disembark from the cruise ship MV World Dream, which made its maiden port call in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone on Wednesday morning (June 06).

Passengers from the cruise ship MV World Dream pose for photographs with dancers in native Ayta costume following their arrival in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone on Wednesday morning (June 06).

Captain Jan Blomqvist of MV World Dream welcomes on board the cruise ship SBMA Chairman and Administrator Wilma T. Eisma following its maiden port call in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone on Wednesday morning (June 06).

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Wilma T. Eisma hands over a memento to Captain Jan Blomqvist of MV World Dream following the arrival of the cruise ship for its maiden port call in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone on Wednesday morning (June 06).

/AMD/MPD-SBMA

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SBMA sets P135.8-M port dev’t projects to host bigger ships, boost income

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) said it has commenced major infrastructure projects that would significantly develop the Port of Subic to provide better services to port users and accommodate bigger maritime vessels.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Wilma T. Eisma said a total of P135.8 million has been allocated for the said projects that are designed to increase the number of shipping lines visiting Subic and to boost port revenue.

“From merely a handful just a few years back, the number of commercial shipping lines regularly visiting Subic has now reached 23—and these do not include the growing number of cruise ships that are docking in Subic and bringing in tourists,” Eisma pointed out.

“With the completion of these three port projects by next year, we expect to see more attractive and more efficient port facilities, more customers coming in, and more income for the port,” she added.

According to the SBMA Seaport Department, the Subic port generated P1.17 billion in 2017, which is 3.27% higher than the P1.13 billion collected in 2016.

The commercial vessels now plying the Subic route include some of the biggest shipping lines: NYK Fil-Japan Shipping Corp., APL, Maersk Line, Evergreen Line, K Line, and Wan Hai.

Meanwhile, at least 20 cruise ships have confirmed to visit Subic this year beginning February when the Italian-flagged MV Costa Atlantica arrived with about 2,500 passengers and crew.

Bigger cruise ships with about 4,500 persons on board are expected to arrive once port facilities here are fully developed, Eisma said.

SBMA Seaport Department general manager Jerome Martinez said the port projects are contained in three packages, with fund appropriation from the SBMA and the national government.

Package 1, which has actually been completed last year, includes the repair of SBMA Seaport’s ISPS CCTV Surveillance System Phase I which covers the area of the former Naval Supply Depot, New Container Terminal, and Kalaklan Sector Light. This package cost P4.28 million and was funded by the SBMA.

Package II includes rehabilitation of port facilities and navigational equipment with the installation of 11 new navigational buoys, including the provision of tracking system for the existing navigational buoys at the Port of Subic. The project is being funded by the national government in the amount of P47.5 million and is expected to be completed next year.

Package III, also funded by the national government in the amount of P83.9 million, includes the rehabilitation of the NSD Road Network Project (Phase 2) and is expected to be finished next year.

Martinez said the CCTV surveillance system for the port will augment traffic monitoring and security surveillance in the area. “With this, port users would feel safer because they know their properties are protected 24/7 against theft, vandalism and unauthorized entry,” he noted.

Meanwhile, the new navigational buoys and tracking system will improve safety of ships, especially the gigantic Quantum-class cruise and cargo ships, as these will update ship skippers on maritime information and help determine their current position in relation to land and hidden underwater features.

Martinez said this is more necessary with the arrival in Subic of bigger cruise ships like MS World Dream, which has gross tonnage of 151,300, or the Quantum-class MS Ovation of the Seas with 168,666 gross tons. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:

Bigger vessels like the MS World Dream cruise ship are expected in the Subic Bay Freeport with the completion of the SBMA’s port development projects. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

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SBMA extends free accreditation fee for container-port related businesses

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) yesterday extended its free accreditation for container-port related businesses from April 13 to December 31, 2018 to encourage more enterprises to use Subic’s container terminals and decongest Manila’s ports.

The $200 accreditation fee waiver applies to the first 80 new business entrants and the first 20 accredited entities due for renewal of their accreditation certificate.

The waiver covers ship agents, freight forwarders, brokerage firms and trucking services.

Firms with an accreditation certificate should guarantee to bring at least one container within one month from filing or renewal of accreditation certification to be entitled to the waiver.

“The free accreditation initiative received positive feedback, that’s why we are bringing it back this year,” SBMA chairperson and administrator Wilma T. Eisma acknowledged.

It’s definitely an opportunity for more firms to invest in Subic and promote the Freeport, according to Subic Bay International Terminal Corporation (SBITC) president Roberto Locsin.

SBITC, the operator of the Subic Bay Freeport, pledged to ensure support and quality service to clients using its container freight station and container terminals.

Furthermore, the initiative will decongest the Ports of Manila, broaden industry awareness of the use of the Port of Subic Bay’s Container Terminal and increase container port traffic and utilization rate.

It can also accommodate more Small, Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

The Port of Subic has two modern container terminals, New Container Terminals 1 and 2, which provide on and off-dock marine port cargo as well container handling services. (Emmie V. Abadilla, Manila Bulletin)

https://business.mb.com.ph/2018/04/13/sbma-extends-free-accreditation-fee-for-container-port-related-businesses/

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Rail to enhance Subic port’s attraction

Subic port is increasingly becoming an important trade center pushed by and its attraction will be enhanced with government’s plan to build a P57-billion railway connecting the Freeport with Clark.

In a report, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) said exports going out of Subic port rose 38 percent to $2.3 billion in 2017 from $1.7 billion in 2016.

Imports that passed through the port similarly rose 11 percent to $1.77 billion from $1.6 billion in 2016.

The report shows containerized cargo volume jumped 13 percent to 140,938 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) from 124,707 TEUs in 2016.

In contrast, non-containerized cargo volume fell 6 percent to 6.6 million metric tons from 7 mmt in 2016.

Ship calls improved in the international front, outstripping domestic calls.

Foreign ship calls stood at 1,526, up 12 percent from 1,365 in 2016. Domestic ship calls however declined 27 percent to 1,252 from 1,704 in 2016.

As a result of these activities, port revenues in Subic in 2017 rose 6 percent to P1.21 billion from P1.14 billion in 2016.

Government is planning to build a railway connecting Subic with Clark airport, initially as a cargo and eventually as a passenger service.

Joshua Bingcang, vice president for business development and operations of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) said a new alignment would be set up between Subic and Clark passing through Dinalupihan in Bataan and Floridablanca, Porac and Angeles City in Pampanga.

Bingcang said the establishment of the cargo rail will incentivize business to shift from Manila and decongest public roads.

He said hauling goods via rail could be cheaper by 25 to 50 percent than by land.

“This system will further bring down cost of movement of goods, an alternative to truckers especially those using Gapan-Olongapo road and the Subic-Clark Tarlac expressway,” said Bingcang.

The project, awaiting approval of the National Economic and Development Authority board, is one of the projects under official development assistance from the government of China.

Bingcang said the BCDA hopes to finalize the loan support this year and start construction next year.

Construction could take three years.

Subic-Clark railway is part of the Greater Luzon Railway System being planned by government. Malaya Business Insight)

http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/business/rail-enhance-subic-port%E2%80%99s-attraction

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Subic among productive freeports in PH

Exports from Subic Freeport rose 89 percent in total value in 2017 from 2016, making Subic one of the most productive freeports in the Philippines.

Subic Bay International Terminal Corp. (SBITC) said products exported by new customers in 2017 include fashion accessories like bags from Bataan, trucks and agricultural equipment from Subic, grains, feeds, and fertilizer from Bulacan, and electronic parts and general department store merchandise from Clark.

SBITC operates the New Container Terminals (NCT) 1&2 which handle shipments for businesses in Central and Northern Luzon.

Roberto Locsin, SBITC president, said many of SBITC’s customers are manufacturers that import raw materials and export finished goods.

Most of the products are exported to Asia, the United States and Europe.

“We welcome the growing number of local businesses employing our facilities in the Subic Bay International Terminal NCT 1&2,” Locsin said. “We are glad to see that these industries are discovering and taking advantage of Subic Bay as a gateway to the global market,” he added.

Locsin also sees an uptick of industries importing goods for domestic consumption.

“There is a good balance of import and export volume in the Subic terminal of about two exports for every three imports. In the succeeding months, we expect an increase in the import volume of fast-moving cargoes because of improved facilities in the terminal,” Locsin said.

For 2017, the Philippine Statistics Authority reported import growth rate of 10.2 percent and export growth rate of 9.5 percent.

The National Economic and Development Authority continues to push for the implementation of more strategies to promote Philippine products in the global market.

“More initiatives are in the works to attract more firms to avail of our services and make use of our facilities. We will continue to improve and develop our terminals to realize the full potential of Subic Bay.” Locsin said. (Malaya Business Insight)

PHOTO:

Cargo unloading at the Container Terminal in Subic Bay.

http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/business/subic-among-productive-freeports-ph

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Subic Freeport expects 20 cruise-ship visits in 2018

At least 20 cruise-ship visits have been calendared this year by the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), as the agency aims to cement its newly staked claim as the newest cruise ship playground in Asia.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Wilma T. Eisma said five different cruise ships have so far scheduled several port calls here from March to October this year, and that more arrivals are being coordinated with shipping agencies for the latter part of the year.

These visiting cruise ships include MV Costa Atlantica, an Italian-flagged vessel that made its second visit here on Tuesday following its first arrival on February 10, barely a month ago.

A list of cruise-ship visits to Subic showed the scheduled return here of Costa Atlantica on March 20 and the arrival of MV Superstar Gemini on March 13 and March 21, as well as MV Glory on March 31.

The SBMA schedule also indicated Costa Atlantica will return to Subic on April 3 and April 17, May 1 and May 22, June 5 and June 19, July 3, July 17 and July 31, and August 14 and August 28, for a total of 13 trips to Subic starting this month.

Meanwhile, two of the biggest cruise ships operated by the Royal Caribbean Cruise Line (RCCL) will be in Subic this year: MS Ovation of the Seas on June 9, and MS Voyager of the Seas on August 26.

“Clearly, Subic is marking a new milestone in terms of cruise-ship arrival. This is not your usual once-in-a-blue-moon accidental port call; this is a surge!” Eisma gushed on Tuesday, as SBMA officials and employees awaited the arrival of Costa Atlantica for its second voyage here.

“Now, Subic is ready to offer the best tourism facilities and services for cruise-ship passengers, and we are betting that our visitors would find their experiences here—as well as in the neighboring areas of Zambales and Bataan—most memorable,” she added.

The 85,619-ton Costa Atlantica, which was also the first cruise ship to visit Subic this year, disembarked 2,500 passengers and crew on Tuesday for a one-day tour of the free port and neighboring communities.

While most of its passengers were taken by buses to various tourist destinations in the free port, some toured the free port’s central business district, with some venturing as far as the souvenir shops and public market in Olongapo City.

SBMA Cruise Ship Committee Chairman Marcelino Sanqui noted that, while the Subic agency spends a substantial amount to ensure the safety and enjoyment of cruise-ship passengers in Subic, it is the local tourism industry that profits the most from the cruise-ship arrivals.

“It is not our business to make profit from what we do; our mandate is to give business to our stakeholders,” said Sanqui, citing as beneficiaries local restaurants, hotels, souvenir shops and even vendors and taxi drivers.

“If one cruise-ship passenger spends just $10 while in Subic, that would mean a total income for Subic of $25,000 or P1.25 million for just one day,” he said.

Eisma, who led employees and residents in welcoming the passengers and crew of Costa Atlantica, said the growing number of cruise-ship bookings here manifests the capability of the SBMA to address the demands of the international cruise-ship industry and showcase the vibrancy of local tourism.

“We have been dreaming of becoming the next cruise-ship playground in Asia, and we can see that the dream is being realized right now,” Eisma said.

“We are hoping this initiative by the SBMA to attract cruise ships would further boost the development of the Subic Freeport and the communities around it,” she added. (Henry Empeño, BusinessMirror)

PHOTO:
Passengers disembark from MV Costa Atlantica after the cruise ship docked on Tuesday at the Subic Bay Freeport for its second visit this year. (Henry Empeño, BusinessMirror)

https://businessmirror.com.ph/subic-freeport-expects-20-cruise-ship-visits-in-2018/

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USS Bremerton Visits Subic Bay during Indo-Pacific Deployment

The Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Bremerton (SSN 698) arrived at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone March 1 for a routine port visit during its deployment to the Indo-Pacific region.

The visit highlights the strong partnership between the United States and the Republic of the Philippines and gives the crew an opportunity to meet the local community living in the Subic area. It also demonstrates the U.S. Navy’s commitment to regional stability and maritime security in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.

Bremerton’s crew of 150 sailors regularly conducts a variety of missions to maintain proficiency in the latest submarine fleet capabilities. Its stealth, mobility, endurance and firepower allow Bremerton to work independently or in conjunction with a carrier strike group.

“Bremerton’s arrival into Subic Bay means a lot to both my crew and the U.S. submarine force,” said Cmdr. Travis Zettel, commanding officer. “This is Bremerton’s ninth and final visit to Subic Bay in the ship’s 37 year history. My crew and I are looking forward to the opportunity to engage with the local community while simultaneously preparing the ship for the remainder of our deployment.”

A number of the sailors aboard Bremerton have family from the Philippines and through this visit have the chance to better connect with their heritage.

“It really means a lot to me that I get the chance to visit a number of my family members again,” said Machinist’s Mate 3rd Class Christopher Gapasin, who lived in the Philippines for six years and has relatives in the area.

Measuring more than 300 feet long and weighing more than 6,000 tons when submerged, Bremerton is capable of supporting a multitude of missions, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare and mine warfare.

Bremerton, the oldest commissioned submarine in the U.S. Navy, is currently homeported in Pearl Harbor. Later this year, Bremerton will move to its namesake city, Bremerton, Washington, where it will be decommissioned after nearly 40 years of naval service.

PHOTO:

The Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Bremerton (SSN 698) arrives in Subic Bay Thursday morning, Mar. 01, for a routine port call after its deployment at the Indo-Pacific region. The visit of the 362-ft long vessel will be a chance for its 140 sailors and crew to have a few days of rest and recreation in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

https://ph.usembassy.gov/uss-bremerton-visits-subic-bay-indo-pacific-deployment/

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Subic becomes next cruise ship playground in Asia with ‘Costa Atlantica’ visit

The cruise ships are coming to Subic Bay!

Warmly welcomed by the Subic Bay community, the Italian-flagged cruise ship Costa Atlantica arrived here at 7:00 in the morning Saturday bringing in more than 2,000 passengers, mostly Chinese, to the Freeport.

Costa Atlantica’s visit is just the first of some 15 cruise ship visits expected in this Freeport for the year.

“Subic’s time to become the next cruise ship playground of Asia has already begun” said SBMA Chairman and Administrator Wilma T. Eisma who, along with SBMA officials and members of the Board, led the community in welcoming the cruise ship at the Alava Pier.

“We are very excited,” Eisma said. “I hope that this will spark our dream of making Subic a part of the inter-island itinerary of international cruise ships.”

Costa Atlantica’s arrival is a litmus test for Subic, which is raring to draw foreign tourists to the various attractions on its shores.

Eisma had earlier announced the arrival in Subic of the Royal Caribbean cruise ship MS Ovation of the Seas in June, to be followed by the Voyager of the Seas in August.

Eisma said the Subic Bay Freeport promises to offer the best tourism facilities and services for tourists from the arriving ships, with memorable and tailored-tourism experiences to meet the expectation of visitors.

The visiting Costa Atlantica is an 85,619-ton, 292.56-meter Spirit-class cruise ship owned and operated by Costa Crociere (Costa Cruises), an Italian cruise line based in Genoa, Italy and owned by Carnival Corporation & Plc.

The Costa Cruises brand currently operates 15 cruise ships that provide cruise holidays in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean, Indian Ocean, the Middle East, Southeast Asia and South America.

Costa Atlantica is renowned for having all of its decks named after the movies of Italian movie director Federico Fellini. Each deck is said to be elegantly adorned with Italian-inspired decors of arts and furniture that brings its passengers to the admiration of wonderful arts, lights and scenery day and night.

The ship is described to be full of large, open spaces offering all kinds of entertainment, from the Caruso Theatre to the Disco Dante, to the fashionable shops in Via della Spiga. (RAV/RBB/MPD-SBMA)


PHOTOS:

[1] The M/V Costa Atlantica, a 85,619-ton Spirit-class cruise ship with around 2,000 passenger tourists, mostly Chinese nationals, arrives in Subic Bay Freeport Saturday (Feb. 10) for a port visit. 

[2] Wellwishers welcome the arrival of M/V Costa Atlantica, a 85,619-ton Spirit-class cruise ship with around 2,000 passenger tourists mostly Chinese nationals at the Alava pier of Subic Bay Freeport. 

[3] Costa Atlantica Captain Enzo Di Nuncio (middle) hands over a scale replica of the ship to SBMA Chief Atty. Wilma Eisma upon the arrival of the famed cruise ship at the Alava Wharf Saturday (Feb. 10). The arrival of the 2,000 passenger cruise ship marks the start of Subic Freeport's prominence as the next cruise ship playground in Asia. 

RAV/AMD/JRR/MPD-SBMA

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