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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SBMA chair Aliño highlights Subic Bay’s Green Port vision in his 1st SOFA

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño disclosed the agency's new vision to transform Subic Bay into a Green Port City and a key player in the regional cruise industry. 

The SBMA chief made this revelation during his first State of the Freeport Address (SOFA) at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC), while sharing his accomplishments during the past year.

Aliño delivered the 17th SOFA before members and the board of directors of the Subic Bay Freeport Chamber of Commerce (SBFCC), officials from the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), SBMA Directors, LGU officials, and other stakeholders, in line with the celebration of the 30th anniversary of the SBFCC. 

In his address, Aliño revealed that the SBMA is positioning the SBF as a leader in sustainable port operations, highlighting the shore power system initiative that will reduce air pollution by 95%.

 

“Our growth to be the green port city, driven by collaborative growth in business and investment, channels a new dimension to pursue our mandate. But this channel is not just the SBMA's vision and mission; we will need your help, your partnership, and your commitment,” Alino stated.

To support this vision, the SBMA is set to construct a dedicated cruise terminal within the next few years, further enhance its port facilities, and expand its international network through sister port agreements with the Port of San Diego in California, Osaka Port in Japan, and other key locations.

 

He highlighted the SBMA’s success in regaining investors that led to a surge in infrastructure investments, economic activities, and a plan to develop Subic Bay into a major regional cruise hub and stopover for cruise ships both as a home port and turnaround hub.

 

Technological advancements to improve port navigation and security were also introduced with the installation of the country's most advanced Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS), which enhances real-time vessel monitoring and ensures safer, more efficient port operations.

 

Aliño also cited the SBMA’s ongoing efforts to integrate sustainability into its development plans, ensuring that growth does not come at the expense of the country's natural environment.

 

He then outlined a series of projects aimed at boosting the Freeport’s position as a leading investment destination, including the development of new industrial parks, expansion of digital infrastructure to support the growing tech sector, and the establishment of Subic Bay as a hub for sustainable and green industries.

 

Key accomplishments of the past year were reported, underscoring the SBMA's dividend contribution to the national coffers, which landed the agency in the top seven.

 

“Aside from the dividends that we contribute to the national government, neighboring communities also get their share of revenues derived from corporate taxes. So I would like to thank our locators for paying their taxes because as you can see, here, your taxes go a long way, especially in funding infrastructure projects in road rehabilitation and other development projects for our communities,” Alino said.

 

He also discussed the expansion projects of two locators, namely, Sanyo Denki and Nidec, that are poised to generate a total of 6,500 jobs.  Employment generation is a primary mandate of the agency that is anchored on the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) for 2023-2028 of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration, to strengthen and build a good community here in Subic Bay by improving the quality of life of its stakeholders.

 

“We hope that the plans and programs we have shared with you pave the way toward even closer cooperation among us.  Because in Subic, we care...for our shared future, and our shared aspiration of growth and progress for all,” he added. (SNL)

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SBMA eyes completion of big-ticket projects under Marcos Jr. administration

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) is eyeing the completion of big-ticket projects under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration.

Speaking before stakeholders at the Build Better More Infrastructure Forum held at the New Clark City (NCC), in Capas, Tarlac, SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño said that the agency aims to complete these infrastructure projects by 2028.

Environmentally friendly and cost efficient service

“On top of our list is our initiative to become the first Philippine port equipped with shore power connection for ships. By 2028, we look to complete the project and deploy the shore power facility that looks to reduce the air pollution from ships by 95%. The project cost is around P250 million.”

The Shore Power Connection for Carbon Neutral Ports project will start construction at the New Container Terminal in 2025 for Phase 1, and at the Naval Supply Depot (NSD) and Ship Repair Facility (SRF) from 2026-2027 for Phase 2.

“This will provide shoreside electrical power to a ship at berth while its main and auxiliary engines are shut down. Shore power cuts air pollution from ships at berth by 95 percent,” he said.

The project cost will be under the General Appropriations Act (GAA) of the National Government for 2025, which will be around P100-million for Phase 1 and P150-million for Phase 2.

Logistics facility for trucks

“To ensure that the growth in cargo will not lead to road congestion, we are now in the process of constructing a state-of-the-art truck holding area in our Tipo area. The project will include automated gates, optical plate scanners and amenities for truck drivers and clients. The project will cost around P100 million and will be completed by 2028,” Aliño said.

The Logistics Facility for Trucking Services will provide a holding area that can accommodate 100 trucks and vehicles. The construction of parking areas with amenities for cargo trucks and trailers will also be undertaken.

Housing projects inside the Freeport

Meanwhile, the Socialized Housing Program of the SBMA is under President Marcos Jr.’s Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Housing (4PH) Program and will cost P2-billion. The project is in partnership with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD).

The area where the housing project will be constructed is at lots 70-B Rizal Highway Ext., Central Business District, Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

“This housing project will significantly improve the living conditions of approximately 1,300 low-income families by providing them with access to decent and safe housing units that are conveniently located near major employment hubs,” Aliño said.

A plan to build dormitories for Freeport workers is also in the works, as Aliño cited that these dormitories will be built close to industrial centers and techno parks. According to the chairman, this will save companies and workers finances, while reducing the number of vehicles and commuters on the road. The project will have a budget of P960 million and will be completed by 2028.

Subic as a Smart City

“We are also embarking on the Subic Bay Smart City project, in which two of the main components include the installation of additional CCTV surveillance and traffic cameras. Subic Freeport is known to have some of the most disciplined drivers and pedestrians in the country mainly due to the strict implementation of traffic rules and regulations,” he added.

“The cost for these upgrades will be P224 million and we hope to complete them by the end of 2026.”

Skills Training

As part of the Marcos Jr. administration’s thrust to upskill Filipino workers, the Agency also plans to build the SBMA Center for Excellence that will boost the skills of the Freeport workers here.

Aliño said that this is to ensure the sustainability of the industries here.

“We understand that we need to continue to develop the competencies and talents of our workforce. A workforce capable of adapting and providing the needs of our vast industries,” he added.

The P21-million training facility aims to enhance the competitiveness of the 154,120 workforce of the Freeport thru technical education and skills development offered by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). (MPD-SBMA)

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