PBBM bullish on expanded, more modern seaport, airport for SBMA in 2028

Before President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. reaches the maximum tenure of his term in 2028, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) expects a significant upgrade in its seaport and airport facilities with an ultimate goal of modernizing infrastructure, boosting economic activity and solidifying Subic Bay’s position as a major gateway for trade and tourism. 

This is in line with the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 of the Marcos administration. The Plan states that existing airports will be improved and new ones will be strategically developed to address future demand. 

The BBM infrastructure program for 2023 to 2028 presently includes 198 high impact infrastructure flagship projects (IFPs) with an overall investment cost of P8.8 trillion. 

“This premier Freeport is set to boost the country’s economic corridor by developing both its seaport and airport,” said SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño. 

The airport and seaport expansion and modernization projects in Subic Freeport will cost an estimated Php28.18 billion. 

These projects are expected to boost port capacity, increase competitiveness, and generate more revenue. Aliño said that these infrastructure projects support the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC) Development initiative of Pres. Marcos’ administration, to be completed by 2028. 

Aliño also disclosed that the first project, a Multipurpose Port Terminal (MPT) at the Lower Marine Amphibious Unit (MAU), will include a 570-meter wharf, with a depth of 12.9 meters. It will have a back-up area of 17.2 hectares for warehouses and open storage areas. 

“This project will provide an additional capacity of 2.5 million metric tons bulk cargoes. As one of the identified projects under Public Investment Program of the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA), the project will spur economic growth through the additional berthing facility,” he said. 

The second MPT will be at the Redondo Peninsula, which hosted the former Hanjin shipbuilding facility. It will have a 600-meter wharf, with a depth of 14 meters, and a back-up area of 30 hectares for warehouses, open storage, offices and support facilities. 

The project will increase the port capacity with additional 3 million metric tons cargoes. This is one of the identified projects under Public Investment Program of the NEDA, with a project cost of P11-billion. 

“The high percentage of domestic and international commerce is by sea, therefore, the efficiency of maritime transportation has become increasingly essential to national competitiveness,” Aliño cited. 

The SBMA also plans to construct a Cruise Passenger Terminal area with a project cost of P1.2 billion for phase 1, and P8.96 billion for Phase 2. The facility will have a double berth 380 meter pier with a depth of 12 meters, along with the reclamation of 20 hectares for Phase 2. 

“International and local cruise operations will greatly benefit the local and national economies, with increased employment opportunities, revenue from port fees and dues, and increased tourism spending. This is vital to the National Cruise Tourism Program of the Marcos Jr. administration,” the official shared. 

Also in the pipeline is the proposed improvement of existing buildings and the construction of new facilities inside the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA) with a project cost of P7.02-billion. 

To modernize ports and allied industries and to decongest passenger traffic in Metro Manila, the Marcos administration will also undertake the improvement of the SBIA to be able to accommodate 6 million passengers annually. 

 

A new hotel and parking facility within the airport complex that will promote the use of the SBIA and further boost the tourism sector in the Subic Bay Freeport is also in the offing. 

“The project is currently under study and will cost around P4.3 billion,” Aliño said. “Locators, port users and prospective investors will also benefit from upgraded and modernized airport facilities, with increased SBIA efficiency, capacity and revenue generation. With these improvements, the SBMA will have additional revenue generating facilities with the rise of a world-class airport hotel and multilevel carpark,” he added. 

“Now for the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA) to achieve its maximum potential, we are planning to expand the SBIA by upgrading and modernizing its facilities. Once in place, we are confident to increase both the handling and revenue generating capacity of the airport,” the chairman said. 

The feasibility study on the proposed SBIA Expansion Project will include the extension of the runway from 2,745 meters to 3,300 meters in length, expanded aprons, relocated CAAP-ATC tower, and a new passenger terminal building. 

The projects are expected to improve and provide a more efficient client and passenger accommodation. The improved and expanded airport is expected to generate a conservative revenue of P12.5 billion annually. 

“This should significantly align to the objectives of the Luzon Economic Corridor,” Aliño said. 

The Subic Bay Freeport has some 1,900 businesses with more than 162 thousand workers and residents in three housing areas. 

SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator (SDA) for Port Operations Ronnie Yambao said Subic Bay Freeport has three important pillars in enhancing its capacity and operational efficiency: first is automation to make cargo movement seamless and transactions faster and more efficient; second is investment in infrastructure like port rehabilitation, the Vessel Traffic Management System or VTMS, and the acquisition of equipment; and third is by expanding the SBMA’s network thru trade missions and creating partnerships with different ports to increase trade and commerce. 

 

"Subic Bay Freeport is the only Freeport in the Philippines that has a complete logistics infrastructure in one location that is managed by the SBMA. It has an airport, and a seaport with a modern container terminal, and piers that can accommodate different types of cargo, to be connected to the Luzon Economic Corridor by a railway in the near future,” he said. 

Subic Bay is also a tourist and cruise ship destination. Currently, the SBMA is developing a facility to be used as a home port for cruise ships. A home port is a port where a cruise ship will take on or change over the majority of its passengers, while taking on stocks, fuel and supplies. 

The Marcos administration, under its PDP, also plans to connect cargo and freight rail infrastructure to strategic infrastructure such as ports. Railway development for cargo and freight will be prioritized, particularly for long-distance deliveries. 

Meanwhile, truck routes will be established to service medium- and short-distance deliveries. Dry ports and other inland cargo terminals will be connected by freight rail to ease the movement of goods to or from the ports. (Radyo Pilipinas)

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SBMA, Port of San Diego eye partnership to make Subic Freeport into a smart port city

With its vision to transform this premier Freeport into a smart port city, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) is considering a partnership with the Port of San Diego.

During their visit here on February 6, SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño and Port of San Diego officials agreed to discover and identify areas of collaboration between both ports.

“We offered to the Port of San Diego to explore areas in Artificial Intelligence, Automation, Break Bulk Cargo Handling and Management, Shore Power Connection, Cruise Ship Terminal and Market Development and Ship Repair,” SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator (SDA) for Port Operations Ronnie Yambao said.

He added that the officials of the San Diego Port extended the invitation to Chairman Aliño to visit the Port of San Diego and explore other port-related initiatives since both ports proclaimed a partnership as sister ports in 2018.

“We see the potential of Subic Bay Freeport in developing trade and commerce between our two ports,” Port of San Diego Commissioner Gil Anthony Ungab said expressing his desire to further explore opportunities that will benefit both ports.  

Also, Port of San Diego Director for Maritime Joel Valenzuela said there are many similarities between the Ports of San Diego and Subic Bay; and that they are excited to strengthen and continue to develop our partnership in maritime and other related industries.

Meanwhile, Chairman Aliño said that the SBMA welcomes the partnership between the two ports as the vision to develop concrete projects will be mutually beneficial to both ports.

According to the US Bureau of Transportation Statistics, the Port of San Diego is one of America's top 30 containership ports, bringing in nearly 3 million metric tons (3,000,000 long tons; 3,300,000 short tons) of cargo per year through the Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal and the National City Marine Terminal.

Aliño said that the proposed partnership is in line with the SBMA’s vision of becoming a port city and that the partnership with the Port of San Diego is a vital step in advancing Subic Bay Freeport’s interests in maritime project development, automation, cruise terminal development and operations, artificial intelligence, and trade development.

SDA Yambao said, “This is a positive step in expanding the global reach and trade network of the Port of Subic Bay in the United States.”

The SBMA also has a sister-port agreement with the Virginia Port Authority to develop trade and exchange best practices in breakbulk and cruise ship logistics management and operations. (MPD-SBMA) 

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Luxury cruise ship MV Silver Dawn makes maiden call at Subic Bay

The MV Silver Dawn, a luxury cruise ship by Silversea Cruises, made its maiden call at this premier Freeport yesterday (December 31) carrying around 1,000 passenger tourists.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño shared that the Silversea Cruises is part of the prestigious Royal Caribbean Group, and is an ultra-luxury and expedition travel brand based in Monaco.

“This is the maiden visit of the MV Silver Dawn to the Port of Subic. We can expect that 596 passengers, as well as 411 crew members of the ship, will spend their New Year’s Eve here,” he said, hoping that the people of Subic Bay Freeport will welcome them during their stay here.

SBMA Port Operations Senior Deputy Administrator Ronnie Yambao said, “As the Chairperson of the SBMA Cruise Ship Industry Committee, we are eyeing to breach the pre-pandemic level of cruise ship arrivals in Subic Bay to reach 20 in 2025.”

He added that the MV Blue Dream Star, among many other cruise ships that have confirmed its arrival in 2025, will be here on April 11, May 3 and July 8 and bring 1,053 passengers on board.  

“Next is the Viva Vie Odyssey on September 23. The ship will bring in 924 passengers at double occupancy, along with 370 crew members,” he added.

Meanwhile, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco recently expressed her confidence in the cruise tourism industry of the Subic Bay Freeport zone.

During a meeting with the SBMA and other officials from Zambales at the Subic Bay Yacht Club, Frasco said that Subic Bay’s cruise tourism can be expanded to include homeporting and creating dedicated cruise port initiatives.

Frasco was in Subic Bay Freeport as part of the Philippine Experience Program (PEP) Central Luzon leg.

She added that Zambales can develop their billeting facilities via the Mabuhay accommodations and homestays, integrating Tourist-Oriented Police enforcers for the Community Order and Protection (TOPCOP) program with barangay tanods in Olongapo City to ensure tourist safety, and promote dive tourism. (MPD-SBMA) 

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Port of Subic Bay all set to host the 23rd INAP conference

This premier freeport is all set as the Port of Subic Bay takes its turn to host the 23rd International Network of Affiliated Ports (INAP) Conference on October 16.

INAP Subic Organizing Committee chairman and Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Deputy Administrator for Operations Martin Kristoffer Roman explained that INAP is an organization of ports established in Japan in 1998, with Subic port as one of the founding members. 

Roman added that the two-day conference is held annually and is currently being hosted by the incoming INAP chairman's home port. 

With this year's theme, “Promoting Resiliency and Disaster Preparedness,” the Heads of Ports are expected to share their best practices in port and environmental management, to promote mutually beneficial opportunities for all the ports, especially the member ports.

Member ports, namely the ports of Cebu and Davao, Philippines; the port of Chittagong, Bangladesh; Colombo, Sri Lanka; Dangjin, South Korea; Mokpo, Korea; Kochi, Japan; Qingdao, China; and Tanjung Perak, Indonesia, are also sharing their best practices with respect to environmental protection and disaster preparedness. 

Delegates from Thailand and Vietnam will also attend the conference to observe the benefits of INAP membership.

"As for the Port of Subic Bay, we will be sharing emerging and green technologies, that will help reduce carbon footprints, and similar projects, whether completed or upcoming," INAP Subic Organizing Committee vice chairman and Seaport Assistant General Manager  Philip Lazaro said. 

Also highlighting the conference will be the formal turnover of INAP leadership from Port of Kochi, Japan to Port of Subic Bay. 

The INAP conference will also include a tree-planting activity of the Heads of Ports, a few plant tours, and a bay cruise on the waters of Subic Bay. 

Roman also expressed his gratitude to the Subic Bay International Terminal Corporation (SBITC), Subic Bay Freeport Grain Terminal Services Inc., and La Banca for the invaluable partnership and active participation in the smooth planning of activities for the 23rd INAPconference. 

Around 300 stakeholders, port users, residents, other locators, and neighboring local government units will be joining the 58 delegates from the member ports expected to participate in the symposium. 

In 2014, the Port of Subic Bay also hosted the INAP conference. (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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BPI sets up border control for agri products in Subic port

In its effort to provide a better and more efficient way to safeguard the agricultural industry in the country, the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) of the Department of Agriculture (DA) inaugurated its Plant Quarantine Service (PQS) office here Tuesday morning. 

DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel, Jr. and Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño led the inauguration of the National Plant Quarantine Services Division (NPQSD) office at the Subic Bay Freeport on Tuesday.

According to Laurel, the NPQSD office aims to prevent the entry of foreign pests into the country via the Subic port, contain and minimize the spread of pests already existing in the country, and comply with the phytosanitary requirements of trading partners. 

“Today, we are making substantial progress in our aim to guarantee the well-being of our agriculture industry and the prosperity of our farmers,” Laurel said.

“The establishment of this new office in Subic holds a significant importance due to its position as a prominent center for trade and logistics. Let us continuously improve our border control system with increased efficiency and effectiveness,” he added.

SBMA Chairman Aliño welcomed this gesture from the BPI’s NPQSD since it would help foil the smuggling of illegal agricultural products in the Freeport.

He added that the agencies involved, including the Bureau of Customs (BOC), are all working in line with President Marcos’ thrust to combat agricultural smuggling, providing a digitized government service, and ensuring proper border control.

DA BPI Director Gerald Glenn Panganiban has requested the BOC to order all imports of plant-based agricultural commodities go through the PQO at the respective ports for mandatory document verification and inspection.

Customs Memorandum Circular (CMC) No. 102-2024 signed on June 7 by Customs commissioner Bienvenido Rubio states that this is a requirement regardless of the categories that the plant-based agricultural commodities may fall under.

The procedure is in compliance with the provisions stated in DA’s Department Circular No. 4 series of 2016, which provides guidelines on the importation of plants, planting materials, and plant products for commercial purposes.

Under Article VI Section 23 of the DA circular, the plant commodities are subject to the existing procedures for inspection at the port of entry.

 The NPQSD cited that upon the arrival of the consignment, the importer should apply for inspection (BPI Q Form No. 4) at the PQS office in the port of entry. The importer should provide pertinent documents during inspection, while samples of the commodity will also be collected for laboratory analysis. (MPD-SBMA)

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SBMA bares seaport, airport projects for completion in 2028

This premier Freeport is set to boost the economic corridor of the country by developing both its seaport and airport.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño said these port infrastructure projects support the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC) Development initiative of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration, which are expected for completion by 2028.

Speaking before stakeholders at the Build Better More Infrastructure Forum held at the New Clark City (NCC) in Capas, Tarlac, Aliño disclosed that the first project, a Multipurpose Port Terminal (MPT) at the Lower Mau, will include a 570-meter wharf, with a depth of 12.9 meters. It has a back-up area of 17.2 hectares for warehouses and open storage areas.

“This project will provide an additional capacity of 2.5 million metric tons bulk cargoes. As one of the identified projects under Public Investment Program of the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA), the project will spur economic growth through the additional berthing facility,” he said.

Another MPT that is set to be constructed at the Redondo Peninsula, will have a 600-meter wharf, with a depth of 14 meters and a breakwater. It has a back-up area of 30 hectares for warehouses, open storage, offices and support facilities. The project will increase the port capacity with additional 3 million metric tons cargoes. This is one of the identified projects under Public Investment Program of the NEDA, with a project cost of P11-billion.

“The high percentage of domestic and international commerce is by sea, therefore, the efficiency of maritime transportation has become increasingly essential to national competitiveness,” Aliño said.

The SBMA also plans to construct a Cruise Passenger Terminal area with a project cost of P1.2 Billion for Phase 1, and P8.96 Billion for Phase 2.  The facility will have a double berth 380-meter pier with a depth of 12 meters, along with the reclamation of 20 hectares for Phase 2.

“International and local cruise operations will greatly benefit the local and national economies, with increased employment opportunities, revenue from port fees and dues, and increased tourism spending. This is vital to the National Cruise Tourism Program of the Marcos Jr. administration,” the official shared.

Also in the pipeline is the proposed improvement of existing buildings and the construction of new facilities inside the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA) with a project cost of P7.02-billion.

To modernize ports and allied industries and to decongest passenger traffic in Metro Manila, the Marcos administration will also undertake the improvement of the SBIA to be able to accommodate 6 million passengers annually.

A new hotel and parking facilities within the airport complex that will promote the use of the SBIA and further boost the tourism sector in the Subic Bay Freeport is also in the offing. “The project is currently under study and will cost around P4.3 billion,” Aliño said.

“Locators, port users and prospective investors will also benefit from upgraded and modernized airport facilities, with increased SBIA efficiency, capacity and revenue generation.  With these improvements, the SBMA will have additional revenue generating facilities with the rise of a world-class airport hotel and multilevel carpark,” he added.

“Now for the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA) to achieve its maximum potential, we are planning to expand the SBIA by upgrading and modernizing its facilities. Once in place, we are confident to increase both the handling and revenue generating capacity of the airport,” the chairman said.

The feasibility study on the proposed SBIA Expansion Project will include the extension of the runway from 2,745 meters to 3,300 meters in length, expanded aprons, relocated CAAP-ATC tower, and a new passenger terminal building.

“This will improve and provide a more efficient client and passenger accommodation as the proposed airport is expected to generate a conservative revenue of P12.5 billion annually.  This should significantly align to the objectives of the Luzon Economic Corridor,” he said. (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 chair reveals P6.33-M Subic Port Expansion plan

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator has revealed the P6.33-million port expansion plan for this premier Freeport.

Speaking before the participants of the Central Luzon Transport & Trade Conference 2024 held at the Hilton Clark Sun Valley Resort on May 24, Aliño presented Subic’s Port Expansion plan under the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)-Regional Development Master Plan. 

“Subic Bay Freeport will have additional berthing facilities in the Boton Area alongside the expansion of the Boton Wharf with an approximate cost of P6.33-million. The plan would include the reclamation for a terminal expansion with a ten-hectare area, expansion and deepening of the existing wharf by 1.5 meters, and the inclusion of a general cargo and Roll-On Roll-Off (RoRo) terminal,” Aliño said.

He also said that the New Container Terminal 3 will also have an expansion plan to include additional berthing facilities and a quay with a length of 410 meters and width of 700 meters, a total area of 28.7 hectares, and a depth of 16 meters. The said project will cost P20-billion. 

The agency also plans to create additional berthing facilities at the San Bernardino Road which will have a multi-purpose terminal that has a quay length of 400 meters, an area of 17.4 hectares, and a depth of 12 meters.

“The construction of the 400-meter wharf will have warehouses and open spaces, an empty container yard, and a truck weigh scale area. The expansion at the San Bernardino Road will cost around P10 billion,” Aliño added.

Aside from the aforementioned expansion plans, the SBMA also aims to implement the Port Expansion Plan at the Redondo Peninsula that includes the construction of a P9.35-billion multi-purpose terminal with a 600m by 500m quay that has a total area of 30 hectares and a depth of 13.5 meters.

“This will also include the construction of a 600-meter wharf, warehouses, an admin building, truck parking, truck weigh scale, sentry gate, open storage, offices and facilities for workers,” Aliño also said.

A proposed multi-purpose terminal at the Lower Mau area of the Subic Bay Freeport is also in the works that includes a 570-meter quay with a total area of 17.2 hectares and a depth of 13 meters. The said facility will have the same amenities as the other multi-purpose terminals, but has an approximate cost of P10.19 million.

Aliño stated that the SBMA is bullish on the shipping industry, citing that Subic Bay Freeport can easily handle the shipping industry in the North and Central Luzon. “This is why we are pushing for these expansion plans, we want the world to know that Subic Bay Freeport is more than capable of handling their cargo,” he added. (MPD-SBMA)

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SBMA gets IT equipment donation from e-Konek Pilipinas

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) formally received the Information Technology (IT) equipment donated by e-Konek Pilipinas, Inc.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño himself accepted the donation from e-Konek Pilipinas, Inc. Chairman and President Theresita D. Eisma by signing the turnover document at the Seaport Administration Building conference room on Wednesday.

The donation package includes 20 sets of desktop PCs, three Appli iPads, and three large TV monitors, which will be used by the SBMA for services such as the electronic Transit Admission Permit System (eTAPS), Gatepass Management System (GMS), Trade Automation and Facilitation System (TAFS), and Automated Export Documentation System (AEDS).

According to SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator (SDA) for Operations Ronnie Yambao, the donation is to support the SBMA in its various initiatives, serving to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the agency’s operations.

For his part, Chairman Aliño expressed his gratitude to e-Konek Pilipinas, Inc. for the donation, citing that these equipment will be beneficial in the shipping sector of the Freeport.

“We are grateful for the donation. Rest assured that these equipment we received will be fully utilized by the SBMA,” he added.

Eisma said that e-Konek Pilipinas, Inc. is a software solutions company niching on providing technology tools for the supply chain industry. The company develops and implements best-in-class computer systems for distribution, transport management, warehouse management, freight forwarding and trade regulatory clearances. (MPD-SBMA)

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Ocean Network Express adds Subic Bay calls on Southeast Asian service

Subic Bay International Terminals (SBITC), International Container Terminal Services, Inc.’s (ICTSI) operation at the Port of Subic, is now part of Ocean Network Express’ (ONE) China-Thailand-Philippines (CTP) service.

The inaugural call of the CTP service to SBITC on 26 March was executed with the 2,741-TEU boxship MARINA ONE. The service links the Port of Subic to East Asia, complementing the existing route between the Philippines and Singapore by further enhancing convenience for customers. 

It also provides a direct link from Thailand to Subic via the Laem Chabang port.

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.

Operated by a consortium of ONE and Regional Container Lines (RCL), the CTP service utilizes four vessels ranging from 2,400 to 2,700 TEUs.

SBITC sits strategically within the Subic Bay Freeport Zone in Zambales with access to major intra-Asia shipping routes, and serves as the gateway to northern and central Luzon. (SNL)

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Biggest cruise ship to dock in Subic Bay makes maiden call

MV Serenade of the Seas, the biggest cruise ship yet to dock here, made its maiden call early this week. 

The MV Serenade of the Seas docked at the Leyte Wharf of the Subic Bay Freeport, as an arrival ceremony was held with Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño leading the SBMA Board of Directors and agency employees in welcoming the passengers of the said cruise ship.

 

According to Chairman Aliño, the first to arrive this year is the MV Serenade of the Seas. He added that the Radiance-class cruise ship arrived on Monday, March 25. A total of eight cruise ships is set to arrive in this premier Freeport that is expected boost the tourism sector here.

 

“It is certainly a welcome sight to see a cruise ship docking here in Subic Bay. It means that this Freeport is still one of the ideal tourist sites for international cruise ships to visit,” Aliño said.

 

He also cited that the estimated Seaport revenue earned from the arrival of the MV Serenade of the Seas is approximately Php438,000.00. 

2,490 passengers and 891 crew members boarded buses for a tour around the Freeport either to buy souvenirs or immerse themselves in the many tourist attractions here.

 

“We are expecting seven more cruise ships to arrive, including the MV Costa Serena, arriving on November 13. The ship will berth at the Riviera Wharf and will carry around 3,700 passengers and 1,100 crew members on board,” Aliño added.

 

The projected Seaport revenues that the Freeport will earn from cruise ship arrivals this year is expected to amount to P3.3million as the arrival of more cruise ships will open business opportunities for micro small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to cater to the souvenir requirements and delicacy market of the tourists.

 

Aliño said that the SBMA has already set up safety measures for the passengers of the cruise ship, namely, an ambulance and fire truck on stand-by; law enforcers deployed for traffic and security; seaport personnel monitoring the berthing of the ship; a bus for guests who availed of the tour package; taxis for guests who wish to go around Subic Freeport; directional and safety signages; a waiting area to pickup passengers; and tower lights to illuminate the entire area.

 

In October and November of last year, a total of six cruise ship arrivals were recorded, which generated P789,400.3 in Seaport revenues. The MV Blue Dream Star arrived in Subic Freeport four times in October, and twice in November, with close to 4,000 passengers in total.

 

Aliño said that the cruise ship arrivals are a testament to the popularity of the Subic Bay Freeport to international tourists, indicating the revival of the tourism industry in this Freeport, after the debilitating pandemic during the previous years. (MPD-SBMA)

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Subic Freeport eyes sisterhood pact with Spanish ports

In its proactive efforts to promote more businesses and marine vessel traffic in the Philippines and Spain, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) officials are now looking into seeking a sister port agreement with two Spanish ports.

This came after the Federation of Philippine American Chamber of Commerce (FPACC) delegation led by President of Tourism Numeriano V. Bouffard paid a courtesy visit to Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose Aliño.

During the visit, Bouffard recommended that Subic Bay establish ties with the Ports of Barcelona and Bilbao.

“This is certainly welcome news to both our countries. Both the Ports of Barcelona and Bilbao are gearing towards conducting business in renewable energies, something that the Subic Bay Freeport could learn from,” Aliño said.

Aliño said that this agreement between the Subic Bay Freeport and the Ports of Barcelona and Bilbao will be through the business network of FPACC as part of their Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the SBMA to promote mutual business interests, trade, and business.

Bouffard was in Subic Freeport to invite Aliño to be one of the panel speakers in the FPACC Business Event that will be held in Orlando, Florida in the United States of America in June this year.

The SBMA official also cited that the agency will be launching trade missions in Spain this year, particularly during the third quarter, and in June 2025 in Orlando and Mexico to promote Subic ports and target companies engaged in logistics, renewable energy and manufacturing.

Currently, the Port of Barcelona is in the process of establishing a new zero-emission nautical bus service powered by solar panels or hydrogen. The said nautical bus service will also be connected to an electrical grid.

The management board of the Port of Barcelona has also approved the use of six hectares of area in the energy wharf for future green fuels and manufacturing plants.

Meanwhile, the Port Authority of Bilbao is also preparing for the second phase of the central breakwater and the electrification of docks, providing ships with electricity while their engines are turned off. The electrification of these docks would reduce carbon dioxide emissions, sounds and vibrations. (MPD-SBMA)

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Subic Freeport launches state-of-the-art vessel traffic management system

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has launched a state-of-the-art Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS) that will raise the bar of traffic management services of the Port of Subic to eventually qualify as one of the leading ports in the world.

According to SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose Aliño, the VTMS will significantly improve port management efficiency as well as the safety and security of the ports inside the Subic Bay Freeport.

He added that the SBMA is currently using a VTMS that was installed as part of the Subic Bay Port Development Project in 2008 which has been in operation for more than 15 years.

“We have proposed and requested funding for the upgrade of the system since 2019. This was approved by the National Government under the General Appropriations Act for 2021. In fact, the approved funding for the new VTMS is P270 million,” Aliño disclosed.

The winning bidder for the said project was Northwind Communications and Electronic Incorporated-Xanatos Marine Ltd. with a contract amount of P233 million. A notice to proceed was then issued to the company on June 14, 2022.

Senior Deputy Administrator for Port Operations Ronnie Yambao said that the new VTMS will provide the SBMA with increased marine radar coverage or vessel tracking and detection, since the current VTMS already has deficiencies and dead spots in the existing radar coverage of the bay.

“A number of areas in the north of Subic Bay, Triboa Bay in the East and areas around and beyond Grande Island have zero radar coverage,” he said, adding that the replacement of radar at the Seaport Building, and the construction and installation of a new radar station at the Ilanin area will broaden the coverage.

The new vehicle tracking system will also include the upgrading and updating of existing hardware and software as the current one is approaching the end of its operational life.

“The new vehicle tracking system hardware is easier to install, operate and configure, is more power efficient than its predecessors, and integrates more efficiently into the software. There have been huge advances in software in recent years and what exists in the market today is far superior to what was in use ten years ago,” he added.

The installation of the new VTMS project also included the replacement of VHF and Automatic Identification System (AIS); replacement of VTMS Operator Consoles with new VTMS software (Computers, microphones, headsets, and speakers); Installation of monitoring display and printer; provision of database and application servers; and renovation of VTMS Operator Room and Equipment Room.

The project also includes the installation of CCTVs at the Seaport department, and at the Kalaklan and Ilanin areas to increase visual coverage. Yambao also added that although the radar and AIS coverage provide for the efficient acquisition of targets, visual confirmation is still an important factor in traffic management.

“Visual coverage through installation of CCTV’s will provide operators the ability to track smaller vessels that may not show up on radar. This system will also allow visual confirmation of larger radar targets operating without an AIS,” he said.

The new VTMS will also integrate a Port Management System that supports the financial aspects of a ship’s visit such as invoicing, and provide information to service providers, terminals, waste collectors, ship chandlers and government.

“This will give way to a better, more improved and seamless Port and Vessel Operations,” Yambao said. (SNL)

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MV Doulos Hope formally opens in Subic Bay on Valentine's day

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño graced the formal opening of the MV Doulos Hope at the Riviera Wharf on Tuesday as the renowned floating bookstore docks in this premier Freeport. 

MV Doulos Hope Captain Tom Dyer and Director Nathan Schmutz assisted Aliño during the opening of the former cruise ship, as Olongapo City Mayor Rolen Paulino Jr. and Zambales Board Member Jun Rundstedt Ebdane took part in the ceremony.

“Not everyone is fortunate to experience the surreal feeling of being immersed into a sea of literature that suits everyone. As I took my first step aboard MV Doulos Hope, I immediately felt that warm sense of belonging,” Aliño said.

“This rare visit is an ideal opportunity to spread God’s love and goodness through shared knowledge, community engagement and by simply participating in spiritual-enhancing activities, which aim to bring hope to the world amidst cultural and religious differences,” he said.

The chairman also shared that during the visit of sister ship MV Logos Hope in Subic Bay in 2015 with 400 crewmembers coming from across the globe, thousands of visitors from all walks of life were able to browse thru, marvel at and buy literature at a fraction of its cost.

Aliño said that the moniker Doulos Hope, which means servant of hope, is befitting of the title of this new ship. He added that the former cruise ship, the MV Doulos Hope is now a floating library owned by the faith-based organization Gute Bücher für Alle or Good Books for All (GBA) that will be open to the public starting February 13, will stay in Subic Bay until March 3 before sailing on to San Fernando, La Union.

Zambales Board Member Ebdane, who attended for Governor Hermogenes Ebdane Jr., said, “A book is a special gift like no other, because you can open it again and again. It’s a portable magic tool that uplifts your spirit once you start reading it.”

He encouraged everyone to take advantage of the limited opportunities Doulos Hope brings, adding that anyone can explore a wide range of books for low prices, while also having a chance to meet, connect and engage with the international crew.

Captain Dryer expressed his gratitude to the officials, citing that their cooperation provides assistance in promoting the MV Doulos Hope to the people in their localities. He also acknowledged the SBMA personnel for their warm welcome during their arrival here. 

MV Doulos Hope ended her final cruise in Singapore in late 2009. The ship was turned over to its new owners on March 18, 2010 and was converted into a luxury hotel, which opened in Indonesia in June 2019. 

In late 2022, MV Doulos Hope was repurposed from being a cruise ship owned by the German charity Gute Bücher für Alle (Good Books for All), into a floating library.

After completion of a refit, Doulos Hope will be based in a Southeast Asian port from 2023 to provide a floating library service to complement its sister ship, the MV Logos Hope. (30) 

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