Subic Bay Marks 10 Years of the South China Sea Arbitral Award with a Fleet-Wide Water Salute

Subic Bay was the scene of a striking maritime tribute on Sunday, July 12, as the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) took part in the national commemoration of the 10th anniversary of the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award. 

Twenty-eight vessels gathered in the bay for a coordinated water salute, joining similar observances happening across the country.

The tribute unfolded at 10:00 a.m. in front of the SBMA Administration Building. Six tugboats took center stage, spraying arcs of water into the air in a synchronized display, while all 28 participating vessels sounded their horns together in a shared moment of tribute to the landmark ruling.

The fleet itself told its own story of cooperation: eight Philippine Navy vessels, two United States Navy ships, three MARINA-accredited vessels, a squadron of tugboats, and a handful of commercial cargo ships that opted in voluntarily to stand in solidarity with the observance.

Answering a National Call

According to SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator for Operations Ronnie Yambao, the event came together after the Presidential Office for Maritime Concerns called on agencies nationwide to take part. Once SBMA received the directive, its Seaport Department moved quickly, reaching out to maritime stakeholders and partners to pull together the day's roster of vessels.

Yambao described the salute as a gesture of remembrance and respect — a way for SBMA to stand with the rest of the country in honoring a ruling that has shaped the Philippines' maritime story. He credited the Seaport team's coordination for bringing so many vessels together on short notice.

A Statement Beyond Symbolism

For SBMA, the participation carried weight beyond ceremony. As a government-owned and controlled corporation and one of the country's leading port authorities, the agency framed its involvement as a demonstration of support for national efforts to uphold international maritime law.

That message was echoed from the top: SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño pointed to the importance of respecting the rules-based international order, framing the day as a reaffirmation of the Philippines' commitment to the peaceful, lawful use of its maritime territory.

Part of a Bigger Picture

Subic Bay's water salute was one piece of a broader nationwide commemoration marking a decade since the arbitral ruling affirmed the Philippines' maritime entitlements under international law. 

Beyond the spectacle of tugboats and horns, the day underscored something less visible but arguably more important: the ongoing cooperation between government agencies, the maritime industry, and international partners in defending peace, stability, and the rule of law in Philippine waters. (SNL)

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Subic Poised for Major Gains as U.S.-PH Launch Historic Economic Security Zone

The Subic Bay Freeport Zone is expected to emerge as one of the major beneficiaries of a newly announced U.S.-Philippines initiative to establish a 4,000-acre Economic Security Zone in Luzon, a landmark project aimed at strengthening supply chains and attracting advanced industries.

The plan, announced by the U.S. Department of State, seeks to build a strategic industrial hub that will support semiconductors, electronics, critical minerals, and other key manufacturing sectors while reducing dependence on vulnerable global supply routes.

For the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), the development could open fresh opportunities for investments, trade expansion, and industrial growth as companies look for reliable production and logistics bases in the region.

With its deep-water seaport, international-standard infrastructure, and investor-friendly environment, Subic is widely seen as a natural logistics gateway that can support the movement of goods linked to the new zone.

Industry observers note that Subic’s strategic location in Central Luzon, along with its direct access to major shipping lanes and proximity to Clark, gives it a strong advantage as global manufacturers diversify operations across trusted partner countries.

The initiative forms part of the broader Luzon Economic Corridor, where the Philippines, United States, and Japan are increasing cooperation on infrastructure, connectivity, and economic resilience.

Analysts say this could translate into greater demand in Subic for warehousing, transport services, electronics assembly, cold-chain facilities, and export-oriented manufacturing.

For SBMA, the announcement also strengthens the case for continued modernization of port facilities, road networks, utilities, and digital systems to capture new waves of investment.

As global companies continue reshaping supply chains toward security and efficiency, Subic Bay is once again positioned to play a leading role in the Philippines’ next chapter of industrial and economic growth. (SNL)

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Subic Bay Reclaims Status as Premier Cruise Destination with Arrival of MS Crystal Symphony

Subic Bay officially signaled its return to the global cruise map as the MS Crystal Symphony docked early morning on March 14, bringing 550 international tourists to the freeport.

The arrival marks the first cruise visit of the year, effectively reviving Subic’s position as a major maritime stop in Southeast Asia.

Upon arrival, passengers were greeted with a traditional cultural welcome before departing on a fleet of tour buses for excursions across Subic’s shopping hubs and attractions, with two additional buses bound for Clark Freeport in Pampanga.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose Aliño highlighted the agency’s ambitious vision for the industry.

“Subic is positioning itself to become a premier cruise turnaround hub in Southeast Asia,” Aliño stated, noting that a P10.2-billion dedicated cruise ship terminal is currently in the planning stages.

The MS Crystal Symphony’s visit is a highlight of its 58-day voyage from Mombasa, Kenya, to Tokyo, Japan. Before arriving in Subic, the vessel made stops in Puerto Princesa, Coron, Boracay, and Manila.

This visit marks the start of a busy season for the freeport. Upcoming arrivals include: 

March 26: MS Adora Mediterranea (3,592 passengers)

March 30: MS Amadea (916 passengers)

April 6 & 16: MV Piano Land (2,722 passengers and crew)

Oct 25: Costa Serena, a frequent visitor to the bay.

Since the launch of cruise tourism in 2018, the SBMA has hosted 37 liners and nearly 50,000 passengers, generating approximately P173 million in tourism receipts for Central Luzon before the 2020 pandemic pause. (SNL)

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Filipino Shipmates monument inaugurated in Subic Bay Freeport

The Filipino Shipmates monument, located along Waterfront Road, Subic Bay Freeport Zone (SBFZ), was inaugurated on January 14, 2026. 

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño recognized the United States Sailors Alliance of the Philippines (USSAP) for paving the way for the construction of a commemorative monument of Filipino-American naval history and friendship, as well as the strong bond between them. 

“Here in Subic Bay, a place rich in maritime history, it is fitting that we honor their contributions. Subic has long been a bridge connecting our two nations, and today, this monument shows the strengthening of this bond even further. It tells future generations that Filipinos played an essential role in safeguarding peace and freedom across the seas,” he said.

Led by the USSAP, the monument was built to symbolize the dedication of Filipino sailors who were recruited by the United States between 1901 and 1991 in the Philippines.

According to the USSAP, over 35,000 Filipinos were recruited through centers like the US naval bases at Subic Bay and Sangley Point during this period, leaving a significant legacy of service. 

The USSAP has been instrumental in preserving and recognizing this history, including the funding and presentation of a Filipino Shipmate statue to honor these sailors in Olongapo City.

Olongapo City Mayor Atty. Rolen Paulino Jr., Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) Director Rolen Paulino, officials from the USSAP, and the US Embassy in the Philippines were present during the unveiling and ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The USSAP is strongly committed to celebrating the deep history and contributions of US-Filipino sailors, especially in Subic Bay, Olongapo, where many were recruited, honoring significant personalities such as Medal of Honor recipient Telesforo Trinidad, and recognizing Filipino contributions to U.S. maritime forces.

The Filipino Shipmate monument memorializes their services. (MPD-SBMA) 

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Subic Freeport, Hermosa to be interlinked in proposed Subic-Clark-Manila-Batangas Railway Project

Subic Bay Freeport, along with Hermosa, Bataan, is being considered for interlinkage with the proposed Subic-Clark-Manila-Batangas (SCMB) Railway Project.  

In a meeting at the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) corporate boardroom early this month, the SCMB Technical Working Group met with key officials from the Department of Transportation (DOTR) and The Cadmus Group, as well as Hermosa Mayor Anne Adorable-Inton.

SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator for Port Operations Ronnie Yambao said that the meeting focused on the creation of an eight-kilometre access road spanning from Hermosa to Subic Freeport’s Naval Supply Depot through two bridges. The access road would cost ₱ 1.8 billion.

The group also discussed the protection of the rights of Indigenous Peoples (IP) communities and their compensation packages. They also reviewed the logistics terminal between Hermosa and SBFZ, as well as trade volume, port statistics, and the alignment of the logistics roadmap and bypass road from SBFZ to Hermosa.

The SCMB Railway Project is a planned 250-kilometre freight railway project connecting four major economic hubs in Luzon, intending to decongest Manila's port and improve logistics. 

The project is in the development stage, with a feasibility study being jointly undertaken by the United States, Sweden, and the Asian Development Bank, with technical assistance being provided by the US Trade and Development Agency.

The said SCMB Railway Project will link the Port of Subic, Clark International Airport, the Port of Manila, and the Port of Batangas, primarily aiming to serve as a freight cargo railway to ease congestion at the Port of Manila by ensuring the timely movement of products.

The said project is part of the broader Luzon Economic Corridor Initiative, and is intended to drive investment and economic growth. (MPD-SBMA)

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“Subic has great potential for int’l films” – Dir. Alabado, DOT IV-B

The country’s premier Freeport was affirmed “almost Hollywood-ready” during the 1st Sustainable Tourism Appreciation and Recognition (STAR) Awards night last September 11, 2025.

Department of Tourism Director Roberto Alabado III of the Office of Film and Sports Tourism and concurrent Region IV-B Director said that film production is not just about the beauty of the location. It also entails amenities and facilities that go with it.

 

“Subic has almost everything that is needed by a film production. Region 3 has a very big potential for Hollywood films, K-pop and soon Bollywood, which is a much bigger industry,” Alabado said during his inspirational speech.

 

He added that his office recently facilitated the filming of an A-list movie showcasing the sights and sounds, culture and destinations of the Philippines, which will have its premiere in Hollywood next year.

 

He emphasized that the film has the power to entice people to travel and see the film location in reality.

 

Meanwhile, eight tourism stakeholders in Central Luzon were recognized for their sustainable practices that are geared toward a greener future.

 

“The honorees we celebrate tonight have embraced the challenge of balancing development with responsibility, and progress with preservation. They are the trailblazers who remind us that sustainability is truly pragmatic, where decisions made on the ground, partnerships built with care, and actions that ripple across generations,” said Dr. Richard Daenos, Department of Tourism-Region 3 Director.

 

SBMA Tourism Department manager Mary Jamelle Camba shared that the 1st Sustainable Tourism Appreciation and Recognition (STAR) awards was created to celebrate and honor outstanding tourism establishments, organizations, and destinations in Central Luzon that are leading the way in sustainability.

 

Sustainable Sanctuary award celebrates recreation, health and wellness facilities that integrate eco-friendly operations, resource management and mindful guest experiences, and was awarded to ACEA Subic Beach Resort.

 

Salt of Sustainability award honors food and beverage establishments that elevate dining through sustainable practices by sourcing local, organic and ethically produced ingredients. These culinary leaders remind us that what we eat not only nourishes our bodies, but also sustain our farmers, our communities and our planet. The award was given to The Nest by the Sea of Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

 

Bridges of Change award recognizes tourism establishments whose corporate social responsibility programs create lasting positive impacts for local communities. These change-makers prove that empowering people build stronger, more resilient and more meaningful tourism for all. The award was given to The Lighthouse Marina Resort of Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

 

Resilient Destination award honors destinations and establishments that lead the way in climate resilience, disaster preparedness and risk reduction. These proactive leaders ensure the safety of visitors and communities, protect natural and cultural treasures, and keep tourism thriving despite challenges. The award was given to Municipal Tourism Office-LGU Guimba, Nueva Ecija.

 

Path to Purpose award honors tourism establishments that have overcome challenges, embraced innovations, and made remarkable progress in adopting responsible practices. Their stories remind us that the world of sustainability is not always easy, but it is always worthwhile. And it paves the way for others to follow. The award was given to Emerald Manor Hotel of Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

 

Green Stay Excellence award honors hotels, resorts, and lodging facilities that showcase outstanding commitment to environmental sustainability. These leaders have integrated green practices into their operations, proving that comfort and care for the environment can go hand in hand. The award was given to Mimosa Cityscapes, Inc. of Clark Freeport Zone.

 

Community-based Tourism Legacy award honors establishments that engage and empower local communities through inclusive and sustainable tourism initiatives. These trailblazers uplift their host communities while delivering meaningful visitor experiences, ensuring tourism benefits both people and places. The award was given to Balangay Apuy Community Tourguides of Malolos, Bulacan.

 

Green Tourism Champion award, the pinnacle recognition of the STAR awards, honors a tourism establishment that demonstrates exceptional leadership, innovation and unwavering commitment to sustainable tourism practices. These champions not only integrate sustainability into their operations, they also influence entire communities and industries to embrace a greener, more responsible future. The award was given to Pulong Kabyawan Agricultural Farm of Pulilan, Bulacan.

 

“From protecting natural sanctuaries, celebrating culture, and empowering communities, to driving innovation, resilience and excellence in tourism services, these categories honor the full spectrum of what it means to be a sustainable tourism champion,” Camba said. (MPD-SBMA) 

 

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Missing fisherman returned to family by SBMA, PCG

A rescued fisherman aboard cargo vessel MV Shin Line 10 was turned over to the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Saturday. 

According to a report from the PCG, the 52-year-old fisherman from Brgy Petal, Dasol, Pangasinan, who was later identified as Rodolfo Montes, was picked up by MV Shin Line 10, a cargo ship that was en route to Subic Bay Freeport. 

Information disclosed by the SBMA Law Enforcement Department revealed that Montes was declared missing since July 24, 2025, after their boat capsized due to bad weather conditions. 

Cargo vessel MV Shin Line 10 responded to the distress call from the PCG and rescued Montes amid the powerful wind waves of Lingayen Gulf at around 6:45pm on July 25, 2025.

Montes was given immediate medical attention by the SBMA Public Health and Safety Department (PHSD) and was thereafter turned over to his son and Barangay officials of Petal. 

The group then departed for Dasol, Pangasinan after the patient was given clearance to travel by the PHSD. (MPD-SBMA)

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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's 32nd anniversary highlights opening of the upgraded Magsaysay Bridge

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) on Thursday, (November 21) formally opened the newly-completed Magsaysay Bridge, a vital connection between the Subic Bay Freeport Zone and Olongapo City.

The inauguration and blessing of the new Magsaysay Bridge was led by SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño, former Senator and SBMA founding Chairman Richard J. Gordon and former SBMA Chairmen Roberto V. Garcia and Rolen C. Paulino, along with SBMA's Board of Directors and local government officials led by Olongapo City Mayor Atty. Rolen Paulino, Jr.

The 72.5-meter multi-span bridge, which replaced the original structure that served the area during the era of the US Navy at the Subic Naval Base, cost P500 million and was realized after Mr. Gordon secured the funding during his second term as senator. 

The opening of the Magsaysay Bridge is the high point of SBMA's 32nd anniversary celebrations. 

It was on November 24, 1992 that the last U.S. Navy helicopter carrier USS Belleau Wood sailed out of Subic Bay, prompting the start of the the conversion of the former military base into a Freeport and Special Economic Zone through Republic Act No. 7227.

Since then, the SBMA has successfully attracted numerous investments, leading to increased job opportunities and enhanced quality of life for its stakeholders.

The anniversary celebration kicked off with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Volunteers’ Shrine in honor of the 8,000 volunteers who took over the facility to preserve and protect the US$8 Billion worth of property left by the Americans during the years of the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.



This was followed by a motorcade of SBMA vehicles adorned with red and blue balloons from the Volunteers’ Shrine to Administration Bldg. 229, as well as the formal signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the SBMA and the Inter-Agency Task Force for Maritime Incidents and Emergency Response (IATF – MIER).

The IATF-MIER consists of the Philippine National Police Maritime Group, the Philippine Coastguard, Bureau of Customs, and the National Mapping and Resource Information or NAMRIA.

The MOU aims to establish effective procedures and action plans to aid in identifying potential emergencies, provide guidelines for preparedness and response, propose mitigation efforts to minimize environmental impact, and highlight necessary system reviews to ensure the protection of life and property within our navigational waters.

The SBMA likewise signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the donation of security equipment from the United States Embassy.

Day 2 of the Anniversary activities consisted of the fun run that was largely participated in by SBMA officials and employees, while wrapping the festivities off with a special event for seniors in the afternoon. (SNL)

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SBMA enhances capability to accommodate growing demand for multi-modal logistics in Asia

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has enhanced this premier Freeport’s capacity and operational efficiency to keep up with the growing demand for multi-modal logistics in the Asian region. 

This was the statement made by SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator (SDA) for Port Operations Ronnie Yambao during the Super Terminal Expo 2024 held at the Hong Kong AsiaWorld-Expo on November 5, 2024.

The three-day expo is Asia’s pioneering design, construction and operations event that showcases the next wave of innovation in passenger and cargo terminal, while bringing together experts and decision-makers to shape next-gen airports.

The Super Terminal Expo's opening ceremony was graced by Michael Wong Wai-lun, acting Financial Secretary of the Government of the HK Special Administrative Region, Vivian Cheung, CEO of the HK Airport Authority, and other government officials and influential members from industry associations.

During a panel discussion, Yambao emphasized three important pillars in enhancing Subic Bay Freeport’s capacity and operational efficiency: first is automation, with systems in place to make cargo movement seamless and transactions much 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.

He added that the automations installed in the SBMA are the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA), Electronic Transit Admission Permit System (ETAPS), and Automated Export Documentation System (AEDS), which are pursuant to President Marcos Jr’s thrust on the ease of doing business thru automation.

“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 further said.

It is accessible by land, sea, air, and in the near future, by railway. It has an airport and a seaport with modern facilities and a container terminal with a capacity of 600,000 TEUs that can be expanded to handle one million TEUs.

The freeport also boasts of four industrial parks with 15 piers that can accommodate commercial vessels and cruise ships. There are 1,900 companies operating in the Freeport with a total of USD12-billion worth of investments.  

“Locators in this Freeport enjoy fiscal incentives under the CREATE Law and all the ancillary services are available to complete the logistics ecosystem in this premier port. Lastly, the SBMA offers competitive rates in port services, in fact, we are 20 percent cheaper compared to Port of Manila,” he said.

Qualified export enterprises shall be entitled to four to seven years Income Tax Holiday (ITH) to be followed by 10 years five percent Special Corporate Income Tax (SCIT) or Enhanced Deductions.

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. 

Team Philippines joined key global leaders in airports, aviation and logistics industries for the Super Terminal Expo 2024 where over 800 international and local aviation professionals were in attendance.

The SBMA is part of Team Philippines led by Department of Transportation Undersecretary for Airports and Aviation Roberto C.O. Lim. Yambao was part of the delegation along with Subic-Clark Alliance for Development (SCAD) Executive Director Amee Fabros, and Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) Chief Business Development Officer Melissa Feliciano. (MPD-SBMA) 

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SBMA awarded “Most Sustainable Investment Hub in the Philippines”

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) was awarded the “Most Sustainable Investment Hub in the Philippines" during this year's World Business Outlook Awards held on November 2, 2024 at the Marriott Marquis Queens Park in Bangkok, Thailand. 

Organized by the World Business Outlook magazine, the award-giving body fetes global brand companies that excel in Global Banking, Finance, Real Estate, Healthcare, Education, Technology, Mining, and other business sectors worldwide. 

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño received the prestigious award, along with Director Teodoro Del Rosario, Business and Investment Group for Leisure Manager Josephine Ivy Ferrer and General Business and Investment Officer-in-Charge Cleofe Espinelli from His Excellency Artur Dmochowski, Ambassador of Poland to the Kingdom of Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar.

“The World Business Outlook Awards is a prestigious event that recognizes industry excellence, exceptional leadership, outstanding success strategies, and global presence,” organizers cited.

They also cited that their expert jury panel was established to ensure that only the top performers from each sector will receive the top honours of the year. 

“This is why we have a very discrete and rigorous methodology for each of our award categories. The Global Recognition that our winners receive are a testament of our dedication towards promoting our champions,” the award-giving media organization cited.

Chairman Aliño expressed his gratitude to the World Business Outlook for recognizing the SBMA for its thrust in developing the Subic Bay Freeport Zone a sustainable investment hub in the world.

“It is with profound honor that we accept this distinct accolade from the World Business Outlook award-giving body for being the Most Sustainable Investment Hub in the Philippines for the Subic Bay Freeport Zone,” he said.

“This is not only a celebration of our achievements but also a testament to the unwavering commitment of our community, stakeholders, and partners who share our vision for a sustainable future,” he added.

Chairman Aliño also urged the event attendees to, “engage in innovative practices, promote green technologies, and ensure that our commitment to sustainability remains at the forefront of everything we do.” 

“Together, we will continue to pave the way for responsible investment practices, ensuring that we leave a thriving planet for future generations,” he said.

Ambassador Dmochowski and India-Thai Chamber of Commerce in Bangkok President Sushil Kumar Dhanuka were the guests of honor during the ceremony. The event also served as a bridge to other companies, as some of the most innovative business minds and influential people were also present during the event.

The World Business Outlook cited that their main motive is to “Reward the Ultimate in Business Excellence” from across the world. “We hope you take complete benefit of this networking opportunity at World Business Outlook 2024 and turn this evening into a memorable event for your company and your team.”

Other Philippine awardees were ABS-CBN Corporation, Ayala Property Management Corporation, Cebu Pacific Air, Centro Escolar University, Megaworld Corporation, Nickel Asia Corporation, San Miguel Global Power Corporation, and among other Filipino brand names. (MPD-SBMA)

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