SBMA Cuts Port Fees and Extends Storage to Ease Supply Chain Costs

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has rolled out a series of relief measures to support stakeholders affected by ongoing tensions in the Middle East. These include a five percent reduction in selected port fees and an extension of free storage periods for cargo.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose Aliño said the initiatives are designed to stabilize costs in key sectors such as transportation and food, while strengthening investor confidence and preventing supply chain disruptions within the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

Effective April 8, following approval by the SBMA Board, a five percent reduction has been applied to charges on commercial vessels. These include harbor fees, berthing or anchorage fees, and harbor cleaning fees. 

The reduced rates will remain in effect until geopolitical conditions improve. 

Vessel owners may avail of the discount through their designated ship agents or shipping companies, which are expected to pass on the savings to their clients.

Similarly, a five percent reduction is being implemented on wharfage and storage fees for cargo. 

For operations at the Subic Bay International Terminal Corporation (SBITC) New Container Terminals and joint venture areas, storage charges will be categorized as either fixed or variable, depending on the applicable arrangement. 

Terminal operators, brokers, consolidators, and processors are required to reflect these reductions in their billing to clients and cargo owners.

In addition, SBMA is reducing by five percent its share in several service-related fees, including pilotage, tugboat services, line handling, water tendering, bunkering, hauling, heavy equipment rental, chandling, and cargo-handling services for containerized shipments.

To further ease costs, SBMA has extended the free storage period by two days across all cargo types. 

The new free storage durations are as follows: 12 days for imports (from 10 days), nine days for exports (from seven days), 12 days for transshipment cargo (from 10 days), and four days for domestic cargo (from two days). However, once cargo exceeds the free storage period, storage charges will be computed retroactively from the first day until final discharge.

Senior Deputy Administrator for Operations Ronnie Yambao also announced the suspension of several regulatory fees. These include SBMA’s share in terminal operator revenues for liquid bulk cargo handling, the one percent admission fee for liquid bulk cargo, and the planned ten percent increase in cargo handling and miscellaneous charges for non-containerized or general cargo.

With the suspension of the ten percent increase, tariff rates for non-containerized cargo revert to their levels prior to January 31, 2026. However, SBMA’s share remains at 15 percent.

Based on projections for 2026, SBMA estimates that these measures will generate approximately ₱76 million in total fiscal relief over one year. Of this amount, around ₱49 million will come from direct tariff reductions, while the suspension of new policies is expected to yield an additional ₱25 million in savings. 

The extension of free storage periods is projected to contribute about ₱2 million in operational savings for port stakeholders.

These initiatives also align with Executive Order No. 110, which declared a state of national energy emergency in response to uncertainties in global oil supply. 

According to Aliño, the measures aim to ease the financial burden on Freeport locators and stakeholders while helping protect consumers nationwide from rising costs. (SNL)

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SBMA partners honored in 1st Green Anchor Awards

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), in collaboration with Subic Bay International Terminals (SBITC), honoured its port stakeholders in the first Green Anchor Awards at the ACEA Subic Beach Resort on November 24, 2025.

The Green Anchor Awards is SBMA’s flagship recognition program for its partners in the port and logistics sector. 

Coinciding with the SBMA’s anniversary celebration, the recognition rites honoured companies and organizations for their cargo contributions that drive commerce, sustainable practices that protect the environment, and partnerships that foster a thriving business environment in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

“Green Anchor Awards aim to celebrate freeport companies that choose to go beyond compliance; those who innovate, invest, and adapt their operations because they understand that sustainability is not just a requirement, but a responsibility," said SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño. 

"It is also smart economics as the world moves toward greener value chains, cleaner shipping, circular waste practices, and low-emission operations. The ports that lead in sustainability will be the ones most competitive in the future,” Aliño added.

The Emerald Awards were given to 15 awardees who have made a significant impact through the generation of cargo volume and the reliable delivery of essential goods that sustain communities.

These companies include: San Miguel Foods Corporation; FLS Group Philippines; Worldwide Logistics Group, Philippines; Yokohama Tire Philippines Incorporated; Nestle Philippines Incorporated; Juken Sangyo Philippines Corporation; Philippine Resins Industries Incorporated; HLD Clark Steel Pipe Company Incorporated; Datian Subic Shoes Incorporated; Ecossential Foods Corporation; Maersk Lines Limited; Evergreen Lines; SITC Container Lines; Mediterranean Shipping Company; and CMA-CGM Lines.

The Emerald Special Awards were given to five companies for their exemplary performance in implementing effective programs, strategies, and CSR activities that promote sustainable practices. 

The awardees were Subic Bay Freeport Grains Terminal Services Incorporated; Philippine Coastal Storage and Pipeline Corporation; Pure Petroleum Corporation; Subic Bay International Terminals Corporation- ICTSI Subic Incorporated; and United Auctioneers Incorporated.

Meanwhile, the Partners in Progress Awards were presented to private organizations and government institutions, “whose steadfast collaboration has been instrumental in shaping the Subic Bay Port community.” 

These were the Association of International Shipping Lines Incorporated (AISL); Alliance of Concerned Truck Owners and Organization  (ACTOO); Philippine Chamber of Customs Brokers, Inc. (PCCBI), Subic-Clark Chapter / Brokers Association; Bureau of Customs (BOC) Port of Subic; and the Bureau of Internal Revenue.

According to Senior Deputy Administrator (SDA) for Port Operations Ronnie Yambao, the Green Anchor Awards is a pioneer recognition platform in the country established by a GOCC to celebrate champions of trade growth and sustainability initiatives in support of its vision of a Green Port City. 

“Subic Bay has been blessed with one of the most unique environmental landscapes in the country—waters that sustain marine life, forests that protect biodiversity, and a coastline that continues to drive economic activity. As stewards of this bay, we have a duty to ensure that development does not come at the expense of future generations,” SBMA Chairman Aliño said. 

For his part, SBITC Executive Director Philippe Baudry said, “As a partner of the SBMA in this event, we share SBMA’s vision of a greener Subic Bay and believe collaboration is a key to lasting impact. Our efforts here form part of ICTSI’s (International Container Terminal Services, Inc.) global sustainability. Together, let us continue to anchor our efforts on green practices for the benefit of our communities and future generations.” (MPD-SBMA)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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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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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Three shipping lines launch service connecting Subic Bay to South China and Vietnam

Emirates Shipping Line (ESL), ASEAN Sea Line (ASL) and Pacific International Line (PIL), have launched a new service from Subic Bay International Terminals (SBITC). 

The service connects International Container Terminal Services, Inc.’s (ICTSI) Subic Bay operation in Zambales with South China and Vietnam. 

The South China-Vietnam-Philippines (SVP) service made its inaugural call at the Port of Subic on 9 June with the arrival of the 1,200-teu-Danum 175, operated by ESL. 

The feeder service, which makes weekly calls to Subic, caters to the growing trade requirements of South China and Vietnam. 

It also highlights the free trade agreement between the Philippines and other Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership members including Vietnam, which faces a growing demand for its agriculture and manufacturing exports. 

“The service offers a good opportunity to Northern and Central Luzon traders, who can leverage the increased connectivity to markets in Vietnam and China,” said Henry Dungca, SBITC terminal manager. 

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

Source: https://www.hellenicshippingnews.com/subic-bay-international-terminals-expand-south-china-vietnam-connectivity/

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SBMA conducts emergency exercises to ensure port security

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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SBMA offers Subic gym for isolation of SBITC workers

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has offered its community isolation facility at the Subic gymnasium for the care and isolation of workers at the Subic container terminal who had tested positive of the new coronavirus disease (Covid-19).

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Wilma T. Eisma said she sounded this off in a meeting on Wednesday with officials of the Department of Health (DOH), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Subic Bay International Terminal Corporation (SBITC) to defuse the health crisis at the Subic container port where the latest tally placed 29 workers having tested positive.

Eisma said the major concerns raised in the meeting included the home quarantine of Covid-positive workers who are either asymptomatic or have only mild symptoms, and the tracing of contacts in the community where workers live.

“In this situation where we have a rising number of Covid-19 cases among workers in one area at the Freeport, it would be best to quarantine the infected workers in a proper isolation facility, rather than send them home to self-quarantine,” Eisma pointed out.

“This is a situation that could blow bigger, but by isolating those who tested positive, we can help arrest local transmission. Otherwise, the contagion would spread and may get out of hand. We don’t want that to happen,” she added.

The Covid-19 outbreak at the SBITC container terminal was detected last week when a total of 15 cases were initially recorded after a worker from Olongapo City, who had no history of travel to any high-risk area, first manifested symptoms of the disease on July 30.

Over the weekend, the SBMA ordered SBITC to have all its employees tested through reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) in order to prevent a total shutdown of operations.

SBITC president Roberto Locsin agreed and gave his assurance that all other personnel in the terminal will undergo RT-PCR test. These included a total of 238 shift workers, port users, security personnel, canteen staff, and even SBMA checkers.

However, as results of the mass testing on Monday began coming in, 14 new cases were confirmed as of Wednesday from about 80 percent of the total number of tests taken, resulting to a running count of 29.

“If more Covid-19 cases are discovered among SBITC workers, and if local medical facilities can no longer accommodate them, then we offer the Subic gym community isolation facility,” Eisma said.

“We have started preparing the Subic gym as early as April for just this kind of scenario—but always with the prayer that it won’t come to this, and here we are now. It’s sad, but at least there’s a place where the afflicted can go and get medical care without posing risk to their families,” she added.

The Subic gym, which has just been refurbished last year as venue for the Southeast Asian Games, has been converted by the SBMA into a 32-bed care and isolation facility complete with work and rest quarters for medical care personnel.

The facility became a DOH-certified community isolation unit for Covdi-19 cases effective July 29, 2020, under a certificate signed by Dr. Cesar Cassion, director of the DOH Central Luzon Center for Health Development.

Eisma said the SBITC may use the facility at its own expense, as the DOH has not yet designated any level-2 hospital in the community to manage it as a Covid-19 facility.

Aside from the Subic gym, the SBMA also transformed the six-storey Leciel Hotel building into an additional care and isolation facility with 81 rooms. This, however, is still awaiting DOH accreditation. (MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO: 

DOH personnel, local health care professionals and SBMA managers inspect the Subic gym community isolation facility after its completion in April.

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SBMA orders mass testing of Subic container terminal workers

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has ordered the Subic Bay International Terminal Corp. (SBITC), operator of the new container terminal here, to have all their employees tested for new coronavirus disease (Covid-19) after an outbreak of cases there last week.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Wilma T. Eisma said a total of 14 positive cases have been recorded among SBITC workers since July 30 when a worker from Olongapo City, who had no history of travel to any high-risk area, first manifested symptoms of the disease.

“It was either mass testing by RT-PCR (reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction) or shutdown of terminal operations—that’s the only choice left if we wanted to contain the outbreak,” Eisma said.

She said the SBMA also required disinfection of the whole terminal complex, closure of engineering and maintenance areas subject to focused disinfection, and daily in-house disinfection.

“Thankfully, the SBITC management was very cooperative in our strategy to contain the spread, as we knew that closure is a last resort because testing is the key to preventing the spread and that the Red Cross lab at our doorstep makes for fast turnaround for results,”  she added.

She said that SBITC president Roberto Locsin has given the assurance that aside from those already traced and tested after some workers turned out positive, all other personnel working in the container terminal will undergo RT-PCR test.

These include a total of 238 shift workers, port users, security personnel, canteen staff, and even SBMA checkers.

According to contact tracing records received by the SBMA Public Health and Safety Department, at least 50 employees have been identified as close contacts after the first Covid-19 infection at SBITC.

The PHSD said that after the first worker tested positive on Aug. 4, tracing identified 15 contacts in the workforce. When three of the 15 contacts tested positive on Aug. 7, 25 close contacts were identified in turn and of these, seven came out positive. Since then, three other positive cases were recorded.

Of the 14 infected workers, nine are from Olongapo City, four from Zambales, and one from Aurora.

Only two of the confirmed cases have been admitted to a hospital, as the rest, who are mostly asymptomatic, were placed on home quarantine.

In messages to Chairman Eisma, Locsin said that they have also initiated other measures to arrest the infection in the workplace.

Aside from contact tracing and immediate quarantining of close contacts, the firm had since closed the administration building to visitors, started issuing gate passes online, encouraged online payments, closed the operations barracks, ordered the mandatory wearing of face mask and face shield, and prohibited dine-in at the company canteen.

Locsin also said terminal facilities have been disinfected first by the SBMA Fire Department on Aug. 8 to 10, and the next by a third party contractor on Aug. 11. More disinfection was made on Aug. 15 and 16.

For the mass testing scheduled today, Aug. 17, Eisma said that swabbing booths have been set up by SBITC at the terminal, with two mobile swab booths loaned by the SBMA for contingency.

Two medical technologists will be assigned at the container terminal to take swab samples starting at 9 a.m. from 80 SBITC staff already stationed at the terminal, while three others will be at the SBMA swabbing center near the Subic main gate for samples from the other 158 SBITC workers who would be coming mostly from Olongapo City.

Eisma said that test results can be generated within 24 to 48 hours, depending on the volume of samples tested at the Red Cross molecular laboratory here in the Freeport. (MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO: 

The new container terminal operated by SBITC in the Subic Bay Freeport

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Subic firms retrench workers due to Covid-19 losses

At least 20 companies in this Freeport have implemented retrenchment measures that affected workers because of financial difficulties brought about by the new coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic.

A report from the Labor Department of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) indicated that the affected companies applied cost-cutting measures like forced leave, compressed workweek schedules, or outright termination of workers since February when the Covid-19 outbreak began to hurt business activities worldwide.

The report showed that as of June 2, a total of 2,435 workers underwent forced leave while 124 others were bumped off by compressed workweek schedules because of low demand for company products, or due to lack of materials and supplies for production.

On the other hand, around 700 workers have been terminated from employment since mid-February due to financial losses suffered by their companies.

The companies with most number of terminated employees were computer device manufacturer Wistron Infocomm (Philippines) Corp., with 551 affected workers; theme park operator Subic Bay Marine Exploratorium, Inc., with 110; and importer Simon & Stanley International Trading & Development Co., with 74.

Wistron also placed hundreds of workers on forced leave in February and March before finally separating 551 employees last April.

Meanwhile, ship repair firm Subic Drydock Corporation (SDC) is scheduled to separate 52 employees on June 25 after implementing mandatory leave for 149 workers on May 1 to 15, the SBMA report showed.

Subic Drydock administrative manager Diana Ross Mazo said in a statement that the imposition of enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) last March “forced the business to shut down for two months without revenue.”

Mazo said that despite the cancellation of project bookings, the SDC has recalled back to work 40 percent of its employees as the company reopened in a staggered fashion starting May 18.

“Over the next few weeks, SDC will gradually increase capacity in support of the ‘new norm’. However, based on careful review of our operation, we need to reduce manpower by separating some of our employees effective June 25,” she added.

Mazo said the company will abide by laws and regulations regarding the separation of workers and will provide the applicable 13th month and service incentive leave pay, as well as half month pay per year of service. Payment for the affected employees will be given in two separate checks: one dated June 26 and the other dated July 26, she added.

Mazo also said that SDC officials, along with representatives from the SBMA Labor Department and the Department of Labor and Employment’s satellite office in Olongapo City, met with the affected workers in six batches until June11 to process the termination.

SBMA Labor Department manager Melvin Varias said the SBMA Labor Department is closely monitoring the implementation by Subic companies of their retrenchment measures to ensure compliance with labor laws.

Prior to the Covid-19 crisis, various locators in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone employed a total of 138,940 workers, with close to 70 percent in the services sector and more than 15 percent in manufacturing, Varias said.

The terminated workers comprise about 0.6 percent of this total. (MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:

Computer device manufacturer Wistron Infocomm (Philippines) Corp. is among Subic locators that have retrenched workers due to financial difficulties brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic.

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Innovative lifting solution enhances ICTSI Subic operation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PHOTO:

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

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

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Subic port operator gets new container handlers

The Subic Bay International Terminal Corporation (SBITC) has procured two new container handlers from international cargo handling firm Kalmar to further improve port operations in the Subic Freeport Zone this year.

The Kalmar empty container handlers will be utilized for the Subic port’s container depot that will serve the transport of cargo goods in the region.

“Our new containers are part of this year’s port improvement plan and will be used in our empty container depot. In fact, our terminal has increased its mobile stacker fleet by 100% compared to January this year,” the SBITC management said in a statement on Wednesday.

The two new container handlers are expected to be operational by June while other equipment are set to arrive within the year.

“We’re looking forward to the arrival of more cranes later this year to complete our 2019 port improvement plan. We will continue to invest in improving our facilities as a world-class freeport for the benefit of our locators and port users,” the port operator stated.

Empty container handlers are specialized forklifts designed to efficiently stack empty containers and handle fully loaded containers in the Freeport.

Each handler has a lifting capacity of 9 metric tons and can stack empty containers up to 60 feet high, which is essential for port operators to fully maximize space to load and unload containers.

The SBITC is the container port operator of the Subic Freeport Area in Subic, Zambales, and serves the industries in Northern and Central Luzon. (SNL)

PHOTO:

A container ship docked at the New Container Terminal operated by SBITC in Subic Bay Freeport Zone

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SBITC installs reach stackers to enhance Subic port operations

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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ICTSI Subic hits 200,000-TEU target

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PHOTO:

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

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

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

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Subic Port ready for peak season

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photo:

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

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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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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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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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