SBMA Authorizes SBITC to Collect Wharfage Fees at Port of Subic

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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SBMA achieves ISO 45001 certification from DQS

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has further solidified its commitment to excellence and workplace safety by earning the prestigious ISO 45001:2018 certification from DQS Philippines.

The official awarding ceremony took place on Monday morning, August 3, 2026, at the SBMA corporate boardroom, Building 662. Presenting the certification was DQS Philippines Managing Director Romeo Zamora.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño expressed pride and resolve in accepting the certification. “I stand proud of all of you for this achievement. Securing another ISO certificate is more than an institutional milestone—it is a sincere public service commitment. This recognition is for the people; undertake it with dedication and heart,” Aliño said.

He emphasized the importance of not only obtaining certifications but also upholding the standards conscientiously. “The true value lies in implementing these standards earnestly and consistently—not only for the agency but for our country, our locators, workers, and the community we serve.”

The ISO 45001:2018 certification establishes a robust Occupational Health and Safety Management System (OHSMS) that enables organizations to identify and mitigate workplace risks, prevent injuries, and enhance overall safety.

SBMA has previously received ISO 9001:2018 certification for Quality Management Systems and ISO 14001:2018 for Environmental Management Systems from DQS Philippines, underscoring its comprehensive compliance with international standards.

Romeo Zamora acknowledged the enduring partnership between the SBMA and DQS Philippines, highlighting their joint commitment to continuous improvement. 

“It is an honor to support the SBMA in achieving certification across QMS, EMS, and OHSMS. We look forward to further fostering this partnership to support effective management system implementation,” Zamora said.

Operating as the local representative of the German-based DQS Group, DQS Philippines brings an extensive global network spanning 60 countries to its certification services.

SBMA Total Quality Management Office (TQMO) Lead Auditor Lolita Bondoc announced that the SBMA is the first Freeport authority in the Philippines to secure three key ISO certifications. The agency is also preparing to integrate these management systems into a unified framework by 2028.

In recognition of the pivotal role of internal auditors, the agency honored personnel responsible for maintaining rigorous internal audit programs that ensure compliance and readiness for third-party evaluations.

Chairman Aliño concluded, “For government employees, adhering to these standards is essential. I salute the dedicated men and women whose efforts made this achievement possible.” (30)

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SBMA releases ₱218-M revenue shares to contiguous LGUs

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) released a total of ₱218,115,671.26 in revenue shares to eight local government units (LGUs) contiguous to this premier freeport zone.

 

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño said that this amount released on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, represents the revenue shares for the first semester of 2026, which is 10.24 percent higher than that of last year’s comparative period. 

 

The recipient LGUs are Olongapo City, the municipalities of Subic, San Marcelino, Castillejos, and San Antonio in Zambales, and the towns of Dinalupihan, Hermosa, and Morong in Bataan.

 

Taking into account the population and land area, Olongapo was allocated the largest amount of ₱50,420,165.72, received by Olongapo City Mayor Atty. Rolen Paulino, Jr.

This was followed by Subic, Zambales, which received ₱32,871,521.46, accepted on behalf of Mayor Jonathan John Khonghun.

 

The remaining LGUs received their allocations as follows: Dinalupihan, Bataan, with ₱27,438,313.68, accepted on behalf of Mayor German Santos, Jr.; San Marcelino, Zambales, with ₱26,272,445.97, received by Mayor Elvis Soria; Hermosa, Bataan, with ₱23,422,520.27, accepted on behalf of Mayor Atty. Anne Adorable-Inton; Castillejos, Zambales, with ₱19,817,470.23, received on behalf of Mayor Jeffrey Khonghun; Morong, Bataan, with ₱19,340,287.10, received on behalf of Mayor Leila Linao-Muñoz; and San Antonio, Zambales, with ₱18,532,946.83, received by Mayor Dr. Arvin Antipolo.

The LGU shares are sourced from five percent corporate taxes paid by business locators in the Subic Bay Freeport. They are distributed among LGUs based on population (50%), land area (25%), and equal sharing (25%).

OIC-Deputy Administrator for Finance Editha Marzal, along with the finance team, led the distribution of the LGU shares.

 

Marzal noted that the net shares distributed to the LGUs include not only the current collection period’s allocations but also the 10 percent retention withheld during the first semester of the 2024 distribution.

 

According to Republic Act No. 9400, which amends RA 7227 or the Bases Conversion and Development Act of 1992, the SBMA is mandated to allocate two percent out of the five percent of gross income earned to LGU shares. (MPD-SBMA)

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Partnership for Second Chances: SBMA, BJMP Launch Reintegration Program

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology Regional Office III (BJMPRO-III) have signed a landmark agreement to help Persons Restored of Liberty (PRLs) reintegrate into the workforce, creating pathways to employment and social inclusion beyond incarceration.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño and BJMP Region 3 Director Jail Chief Superintendent Ma. Annie A. Espinosa formalized the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on June 4 at the SBMA Administration Building, with senior officials from both agencies in attendance.

Aliño said the Workplace Reintegration Program enhances public safety while extending rehabilitative efforts to PRLs.

“I strongly believe that it is not only our civic responsibility but more importantly, a just and humane act of service to our fellowmen,” he noted.

The program will facilitate skills-matching and employment opportunities within the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, enabling PRLs to become productive members of society.

Espinosa emphasized that the initiative reflects both institutions’ shared commitment to reformation beyond incarceration, empowering individuals with dignity, purpose, and responsibility.

Last year, SBMA also partnered with the Department of Justice-Parole and Probation Administration (DOJ-PPA) on a similar reintegration program, making SBMA the first government-owned and controlled corporation to support workplace reintegration for parolees, probationers, and pardonees.

Officials said the new partnership with BJMPRO-III reaffirms SBMA’s dedication to inclusive employment and community-building, while strengthening BJMP’s rehabilitation thrust across Central Luzon. (SNL)

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SBMA Grants BCDA Space to Advance Luzon Economic Corridor Projects

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has allotted an 800-square-meter site to the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), providing the agency with a base of operations within the Freeport.

The move positions BCDA staff to directly oversee Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC) projects, including the Subic-Clark-Manila-Batangas Railway and the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway expansion.

Officials say the arrangement strengthens inter-agency cooperation and anchors Subic’s role in advancing national infrastructure priorities.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño and BCDA President/CEO Joshua M. Bingcang formalized the agreement in a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed June 3 at the SBMA Administration Building, witnessed by senior officials from both agencies.

Aliño described the allocation as more than a land grant, calling it a commitment to provide a “vibrant, supportive, and sustainable home” for BCDA staff.

Bingcang said the prepositioning of personnel reflects BCDA’s thrust to accelerate investments and development activities in the Subic-Clark-Bataan growth corridor.

The designated lot, located between Lots 95 and 97 Corsair Street in Kalayaan Heights District, was approved by the SBMA Board of Directors through Resolution No. 25-07-1360.

Officials noted the move is expected to boost investment inflows, increase mobility, and enhance coordination across Luzon’s strategic development axis. (SNL)

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SBMA receives patient transport vehicle from PAGCOR

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) received a patient transport vehicle from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) during a turnover ceremony held at its head office in Pasay City on May 26, 2026.

PAGCOR President and Chief Operations Officer (COO) Atty. Wilma T. Eisma turned over the patient transport vehicle to SBMA Public Health and Safety Department (PHSD) Medical Services Division OIC, Dr. Arlene Gravina-Cesa.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño expressed his gratitude to PAGCOR for the patient transport vehicle, which will boost the efficiency of medical service delivery in Subic Bay Freeport.

“My heartfelt thanks to PAGCOR, especially to Chairman Alejandro H. Tengco, for providing the Freeport with a patient transport vehicle. This unit will certainly enhance the services of our Public Health and Safety Department (PHSD) during the scheduled, non-emergency transfer of clinically stable patients,” he said.

“Kay Mam Amy (Eisma), marami pong salamat at hindi pa rin kayo nakakalimot sa iyong dating tahanan, ang SBMA,” he added.

Meanwhile, according to Tengco, the donation is part of the agency’s broader efforts to make basic healthcare more accessible, ensuring that communities and sectors in need can receive urgent medical attention through these new patient transport vehicles.

“More than simply meeting targets, it reflects a clear commitment: to support healthier, more resilient communities by investing in essential services people rely on when it matters most,” he said.

The donation is one of many under PAGCOR’s ongoing nationwide program to distribute medical transport vehicles.

Aside from the SBMA, PAGCOR also donated patient transport vehicles to the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) (two vehicles), Bureau of Corrections (BuCor), and the local government units of Manay, Davao; Narra, Palawan; and Dumaguete. (MPD-SBMA)

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SBMA, BJMP sign MOA for Adopt-A-Mangrove Program

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA)  for the Adopt-A-Mangrove Program at the corporate boardroom of the administration building here on March 12, 2026.

The MOA, which was signed between SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño and BJMP Regional Office 3 (BJMPRO3) Regional Director, Jail Chief Superintendent (JCSupt) Paulino H. Moreno Jr., stipulates the development of approximately 400 square meters of mangrove area within Subic Bay Freeport. 

Aliño explained that under the MOA, SBMA will designate an area within the SBFZ mangrove forest to be adopted by BJMPRO3. Mangrove seedlings from the agency’s Mangrove Nursery will also be provided. He added that SBMA will monitor and evaluate the adopted area annually.

“And after completing the three-year program, SBMA will award BJMPRO3 with a Certificate of Completion upon turnover of the area to SBMA,” he added.

Meanwhile, JCSupt Moreno assured that BJMPRO3 personnel will plant at least 100 seedlings and ensure the survival of the planted mangrove propagules in the SBMA-designated area. 

He also said that BJMPRO3 personnel will conduct regular cleanup activities, provide adequate manpower, and hand over the area to SBMA after three years.

SBMA Ecology Center OIC Rossell L. Abuyo and BJMPPO Zambales Provincial Jail Administrator JSupt. Ferdinand G. Malabo witnessed the signing of the MOA along with other officials from the SBMA and BJMP.

Subic Bay Freeport Zone hosts approximately 61 to 65 hectares of protected mangrove forests, primarily in areas such as Triboa Bay, Binictican, and Malawaan. 

These areas serve as crucial coastal protection, wildlife habitats, and ecotourism sites, with ongoing conservation efforts, including tree planting and rehabilitation, conducted by the SBMA Ecology Center and its partners. (MPD-SBMA) 

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SBMA turns over worn-out flags for proper disposal in Bataan

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) turned over its worn-out flags, which have been hoisted in front of the administration building over the years, for proper disposal in Mariveles, Bataan.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño led the turnover of these national symbols to Alion Barangay Captain Vicielito Balan during a simple ceremony held at the Chairman’s Office in Subic Freeport on March 4, 2026.

According to Aliño, the Sangguniang Barangay of Alion wrote a letter to the SBMA, requesting that the agency donate its tattered, faded, or worn-out Philippine flags for inclusion in the burning ceremony.

During the1st Regular Session of the Sangguniang Barangay (SB) of Alion on January 5, the SB passed a resolution for the proper disposal of tattered or worn-out Philippine flags. The said flag disposal program will be held on March 13 at the Flag Disposal Site inside the Alion Barangay Hall Compound.

The program aligns with the flag disposal rites of the Boys Scouts and Girls Scouts of the Philippines,  Armed Forces of the Philippines, and the Philippine National Police.

The ashes of the disposed flags will be placed in an urn to be laid to rest in a memorial site especially provided and made for them.

The said disposal site complies with Republic Act No. 8491, otherwise known as the “Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines,” which stipulates that reverence and respect shall be accorded to the flags, the anthem, and other national symbols.

Located along Waterfront Road, Subic Bay Freeport Zone, the SBMA flagpole, where these flags are hoisted, boasts of a rich historical symbolism, as it witnessed the epic transition of Subic Bay from a U.S. naval base to a Philippine-led economic zone.

The flagpole stands at 120 feet, symbolizing a total of 94 years of foreign military presence in Subic, the 18 heads of state who attended the 1996 Asia-Pacific Economic Conference (APEC) in Subic, and the eight thousand volunteers who protected and preserved the base facilities after the U.S. Navy withdrew in 1992.

The Philippine flag in Subic Bay Freeport, hoisted permanently in compliance with RA 8491, is one of the largest in the country, measuring 44 feet long and 22 feet wide. (MPD-SBMA)

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SBMA Spearheads Logistical Support for U.S. Military Underwater Recovery Mission in Subic Bay

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has taken a leading role in supporting a historic underwater recovery mission led by the U.S. Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) to account for American prisoners of war (POWs) lost during World War II.

Serving as the mission’s primary logistical backbone, the SBMA has mobilized its extensive harbor resources and shore-based infrastructure to facilitate the operation.

The authority has streamlined the deployment of specialized U.S. Navy diving units and forensic experts by providing dedicated pier space, securing maritime exclusion zones, and ensuring the seamless movement of technical equipment through the Freeport Zone.

The recovery efforts are focused on the wreckage of the Oryoku Maru, a Japanese "hell ship" sunk in December 1944. The site, located roughly 550 yards from the Olongapo shoreline, presents significant technical challenges.

To mitigate these, the SBMA Harbor Patrol and Law Enforcement Department have established a 24-hour security perimeter, ensuring the safety of the dive teams while maintaining the flow of commercial traffic in the busy harbor.

Beyond maritime security, the SBMA has provided the U.S. team with administrative support and local coordination with Philippine national agencies. 

This partnership underscores the enduring strategic and humanitarian relationship between the SBMA and the U.S. military, building on the decades-long shared history of the Subic Bay Naval Base.

The mission is expected to continue for several weeks, with the SBMA providing ongoing operational support until the recovery phase is complete. All remains recovered will be handled with full military honors before being transported for forensic identification. (SNL)

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SBMA and Port of Kaohsiung Ink Landmark Sister Port Agreement

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has officially entered into a Sister Port Agreement with the Port of Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s premier maritime hub, marking a transformative step toward making Subic Bay a world-class, eco-friendly gateway in Southeast Asia. 

The agreement was formalized on February 25, 2026, at the Port of Kaohsiung Cruise Terminal. It was signed by SBMA Director Patrick Jean O. Gonzales, representing Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño, and Taiwan International Ports Corp. (TIPC) Chairman Chou Yung-hui. 

The ceremony was witnessed by key officials, including Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-Mai and SBMA Deputy Administrator for Port Operations Atty. Martin Kristoffer Roman, signaling high-level commitment from both regions to foster maritime synergy. 

A Blueprint for Green Maritime Operations 

Central to the pact is Subic’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality. By leveraging Kaohsiung’s expertise as an award-winning "EcoPort," the SBMA aims to implement advanced green technologies, including shore-side power and sustainable waste management systems. 

"Our collaboration with the Port of Kaohsiung is a cornerstone of our 'Green Subic' initiative," said SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator for Port Operations Ronnie Yambao. 

"By adopting their proven models for sustainable infrastructure, we are ensuring that Subic remains competitive in a global market that increasingly demands environmentally responsible logistics." 

Boosting Regional Trade and Tourism 

The agreement establishes a framework for immediate cooperation in several high-impact areas: 

• Logistics Efficiency: Promoting increased shipping frequency and direct routes to lower costs for Philippine and Taiwanese exporters. 
• 
  
• Cruise Industry Growth: Collaborating on terminal management to position Subic as a key destination in the Asian cruise circuit. 
• 
  
• Expertise Sharing: Formalizing exchanges in port development, security management, and digital transformation. 

Expanding Global Connectivity 

The Port of Kaohsiung becomes Subic’s third international sister port, joining the Port of Virginia (USA) and the Port of Eilat (Israel). This alliance is part of a broader push by the SBMA to integrate the Freeport into the world's most efficient maritime networks, with future talks planned for hubs in San Diego, Bangkok, and Ho Chi Minh City. (SNL)

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SBMA Chief Aliño wins Stargate PeopleAsia’s People of the Year 2026

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño was among those hailed by Stargate PeopleAsia as People of the Year 2026. 

Awardees were chosen for their achievements and advocacies, most significant of which is Aliño’s belief in choosing “not what is easy, but what is right.”

Aliño is recognized for his “industrialist” leadership, bringing decades of business savvy to his role as SBMA Chairman and Administrator. He embarked on projects that aim to transform Subic Bay into a dynamic economic hub and “green port.” Under his leadership, the authority secured nearly ₱600 billion in investments in 2025 alone.

Other 2026 Awardees include: Ramon S. Ang as a Lifetime Achievement Awardee (San Miguel Corp. Chairman/CEO); Jessica Soho, a veteran journalist and “beacon of truth”; Martin Nievera, known as “The Concert King”; Sheila Romero, founder of I Want to Share Foundation. Adding to the prestigious list of awardees are Fr. Flavie Villanueva, SVD, founder of Arnold Janssen Kalinga Center; DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon; and Dr. Hayden Kho Jr., Managing Director of Belo Medical Group.

Since assuming the top leadership role at the SBMA in January 2024, Aliño has focused on enhancing the Freeport's revenue, attracting new investments, and integrating sustainability into its operations.

Under his leadership, the SBMA breached its ₱4 billion operating revenue target. In 2025, the agency remitted P1.465 billion in revenue earnings to the national government, landing among the top dividend contributors to the national coffers.

In 2024 alone, Subic welcomed 159 new locators, bringing in a total committed investment worth ₱20.6 billion and generating 6,466 new jobs for the community.

Aliño also launched the Green Anchor Awards to recognize partners excelling in sustainability and trade facilitation. His "Greenport" vision includes developing sustainable industrial parks and expanding digital infrastructure.

In early 2026, the SBMA was ranked 1st in Overall Performance in the Quarterly Survey of Philippine Business and Industry (QSPBI) by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

He secured major global players like Hyundai Heavy Industries, which is seen as a significant boost to Subic’s long-term maritime and industrial development.

Aliño spearheaded projects such as the Subic Bay Residencias socialized housing project for SBMA employees, the electric bus public transportation vehicle, the redevelopment of the Boardwalk area, and facilitated the entry of new leisure developments, such as the IBIS Styles Subic Hotel. (MPD-SBMA)

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SBMA releases ₱158.9M revenue shares to contiguous LGUs

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) is set to release a total of ₱158.9 million to its eight contiguous local government units (LGUs) as their revenue share for the second semester of 2025. 

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño said that the current amount for release surpassed ₱143.17 million released during the same period last year, by 10.99%. 

The revenue shares, Aliño explained, are determined according to 50% population, 25% land area, and 25% equal sharing. 

Olongapo City remained the LGU with the highest share of ₱36.73 million; followed by Subic, Zambales, with ₱23.95 million; then Dinalupihan, Bataan with ₱19.99 million; San Marcelino, Zambales with ₱19.14 million; Hermosa, Bataan with ₱17.06 million; San Antonio, Zambales with ₱13.5 million; Castillejos, Zambales with ₱14.44 million; and Morong, Bataan with ₱14.09 million. 

Aliño added that these shares are extended to contiguous LGUs to augment their funds for calamities, health and safety, peace and order, livelihood generation, education, tourism, infrastructure, and social services. 

In August 2025, the SBMA released a total of ₱197.85 million as revenue shares for the first semester. In total, the agency released ₱356.74 million for the 2025 LGU shares. 

The LGU shares are derived from the five-percent taxes paid by business locators in the Subic Bay Freeport and are collected from January to June for the first semester, and July to December for the second semester. 

LGU shares are released in August and February the following year, respectively. (MPD-SBMA)

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861 SBMA COS, JO employees get 5-day wellness leave per CSC-COA-DBM Joint Circular No. 1

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Board of Directors has approved the Grant of Ancillary Benefits to Contract of Service (COS) and Job Order (JO) employees, including five days of Wellness Leave. 

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño explained that the Civil Service Commission (CSC) has approved a five-day paid Wellness Leave for government employees, starting January 1, 2026. 

This supports the primary goal of the government to provide a better quality of life for Filipinos thru mental and physical health and well-being initiatives, by allowing up to three consecutive days off, separate from existing vacation/sick leaves. This applies to public sector officials and employees. 

Aliño added that the Board approved the Grant of Ancillary Benefits through Board Resolution No. 26-01-1655 on January 27 which was then issued on January 28, 2026, following Joint Circular No. 1, Series of 2025 by the Civil Service Commission (CSC), Commission on Audit (COA), and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).

Under CSC-COA-DBM Joint Circular No. 1, s. 2025, government COS and JO workers are entitled to ancillary benefits such as overtime pay (based on CSC-DBM JC No. 2, s. 2015), reimbursement for official local travel, and a potential 20% premium on daily pay, subject to fund availability and contract stipulations. 

Additionally, the said SBMA Board Resolution authorizes the agency to provide ancillary benefits to COS and JO employees, such as Compensatory Time Off (CTO), Flexible Working Arrangement (FWA), Reimbursement of Authorized Official Travel Expense, and Wellness Leave.

Aliño further said that the grant of these benefits is intended to empower COS and JO workers to more effectively fulfill their contractual obligations, particularly where service exigencies require extended work hours, mobility beyond official stations, and the continuity of SBMA operations.

They may also receive a year-end gratuity pay of up to ₱7,000 for 2024, depending on the length of service.

These benefits are generally applicable to national government agencies, state universities and colleges (SUCs), and government-owned or controlled corporations (GOCCs), subject to budget availability.

The adoption of FWAs has been institutionalized across both public and private sectors to enhance productivity, promote work-life balance, and ensure business continuity during disruptive situations.

The SBMA employs 631 COS and 230 JO employees as of December 31, 2025. (MPD-SBMA)

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Sanyo Denki donates two Hydroponic System units to SBMA

In its effort to encourage healthy eating habits, Sanyo Denki Philippines Inc., a Japanese electronics manufacturer here, donated two units of Hydroponic Systems to the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA).

Sanyo Denki Philippines Inc. Director Yosuke Takeuchi explained that these Hydroponic System units grow fresh, chemical-free vegetables in a safe and healthy environment, while they are being tested in real-world scenario with the government agency as a test bed.  

The two units installed at Building 255 are currently growing Black Rose Lettuce which will be distributed to SBMA employees once ready for harvest.

Takeuchi, along with Sanyo Denki Philippines Inc. President and CEO Hirokazu Takeuchi, presented the two units to SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño on January 22, 2026.

Aliño expressed his gratitude to the two officials, acknowledging that these Hydroponic System units can be adapted to the planned dormitory and residential areas proposed for Freeport employees to ensure augmented food security.

“With the buildings of the SBMA running on solar power, electricity for these Hydroponic System units will not be an issue. I hope that the testing of these units would become successful so that companies inside the Subic Freeport would adopt it for the sake of their employees,” Aliño said.

The Hydroponic System introduced by Sanyo Denki Philippines uses San Ace fans, a product made by the company itself. The two units have Black Rose Lettuce currently being grown, with the capacity to grow leaf radish, parsley, Mizuna, coriander, romaine lettuce, green and iceberg lettuce.

The Hydroponic System is a Deep Flow Technique type that has dimensions similar to a large cabinet and weighs 61 kilograms without water. The system uses 220-volt electricity, which consumes approximately 0.3 kilowatt-hour, has a capacity for 90 plants, and a water tank capacity of 60 liters.

The lettuce grown in the Hydroponic System may be harvested after 20 days. (MPD-SBMA)

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SBMA retakes control of Grande Island due to lease violations

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has resumed possession of Grande Island after ending its lease agreement with GFTG Holdings Corporation.

SBMA officials said the move followed a decision by the authority’s board to terminate the contract after the company failed to fulfill agreed development commitments.

A pre-termination notice was issued earlier, giving the lessee a fixed period to vacate the property before enforcement measures were carried out.

The takeover was completed earlier this month after SBMA served a formal repossession notice and proceeded with implementation following the holiday period.

GFTG has since filed a request seeking the revival of its lease, which is now undergoing review by a board-level committee.

The island drew heightened public scrutiny last year after the arrest of several Chinese nationals accused of conducting unauthorized surveillance activities.

Investigators said the suspects allegedly used drones and electronic devices to gather images and data related to naval operations in Subic Bay.

Grande Island’s strategic location overlooking key maritime passages has since fueled security discussions, including proposals to place the area under tighter government control. (thechronicle.com)

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