SBMA mulls redevelopment of Subic airport into world-class tourism facility

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) is considering the possibility of turning the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA) into a major world-class tourism destination.

According to SBMA Chairman Roberto Garcia, the operation and maintenance of the Subic airport cost SBMA huge money, leading the SBMA to think of sustainable alternatives like converting it into an integrated family-oriented tourism facility.

Garcia said there are compelling reasons behind the idea to redevelop the SBIA, which he admitted is the most challenging concern the SBMA is facing.

“The Subic airport is superfluous because of Clark, and it is losing. And lastly, it is one of the last remaining prime real estate assets of SBMA,” he reasoned out.

“Huge problems require huge actions for huge solutions. The plan is very bold and very ambitious, but with the support of everyone, this plan will come through,” Garcia added.

The SBMA official also noted that the agency will not spend a single peso on the project because it will be implemented through a joint venture where SBMA will use the value of the land, currently occupied by the airport, as capital.

Since the project requires a big amount of money, the SBMA is hoping to bid the project internationally to attain international standards for the plan and design, he said.

Garcia explained that the basic idea is to turn the airport into something like Sentosa, a popular family-oriented resort in Singapore. The redeveloped SBIA will still be accessible because Subic is now just 45 minutes away from the international airport at the Clark Freeport because of the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway.

The planned leisure complex will house at least two or three international theme parks, a new golf course, duty free shops, hotels and casino, an entertainment complex, a promenade, and a new marina and yacht club, among others.

“The opportunities that exist today are very tremendous, believe me,” Garcia said. “And with the help of every hand, our ambition of turning our airport into a major international tourism destination will come true.” (RAV/MPD-SBMA)

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SBMA seeds more ‘taklobo’ in Subic Bay

More giant clams or “taklobo” have found their way into Subic Bay through a marine resources conservation program of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and the active participation of various stakeholders in this free port.

SBMA Chairman Roberto Garcia said the agency recently seeded the Ilanin Bay here with 200 taklobo seedlings for this year’s clam-seeding project, as part of the agency’s vision to make the Freeport an eco-urban center which merges industrial development with eco-tourism.

The SBMA purchased the giant clams from the UP Marine Science Institute in Bolinao, Pangasinan with proceeds from this year’s “Takbo para sa Taklobo” fundraising project initiated by the SBMA Ecology Center.

“This is already some sort of a social responsibility project supported by the whole Subic Bay Freeport community,” Garcia explained.

“Everybody pitches in here — from students to workers at locator-companies, to SBMA employees and Freeport Zone residents. We’re very much happy to be involved because we know we’re helping make a better world,” he added.

Giant clams (tridacna gigas), which can live up to a hundred years, are considered an endangered species and serve an integral part of the coral reef system.

SBMA marine biologist Dorothy Joyce Ardiente said their decline could have an adverse effect on the biodiversity of the marine ecosystem, which is why the SBMA has decided on clam seeding as its cornerstone marine conservation program.

The clams, which measure an average of 15 centimeters in diameter when they are seeded, can grow up to 1.5 meters in diameter and weigh up to 258 kilos.

The “Takbo para Taklobo” conservation run has caught on the Subic Bay Freeport community ever since SBMA environment specialist Rhea Jane Pescador conceptualized it in 2010 as a environmental awareness project of the SBMA Ecology Center

The event has been attended by some 1,500 runners in the inaugural run, and by more than 2,000 participants last year. The project raised P54,000 in 2010 and P84,340 last year. (MPD/SBMA)

PHOTO:
A volunteer diver holds up a crate containing giant clams bound for seeding at Ilanin Bay in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone. The project is part of the SBMA’s marine resources conservation program.

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SBMA bares bold strategy to make Subic top trade & tourism destination

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has bared a five-year strategic plan designed to generate more employment and investment opportunities in this free port.

In his first State of the Freeport Address (SOFA), SBMA chairman and administrator Roberto V. Garcia said that for the next five years, the agency will implement an audacious development program to take advantage of existing opportunities and to maximize Subic’s potentials.

“Until the end of our term in SBMA, in the next five years, we will be working on this very exciting plan, a very ambitious plan that we believe will turn Subic into a place that we will be proud of,” Garcia said.

Among the strategies the SBMA will be implementing under this plan is the development of tourism niche markets, which is envisioned to turn the Subic Freeport into a major tourism destination in the Philippines.

Garcia said the SBMA will also exert all efforts to make Subic the Theme Park Capital of the Philippines, a top sports tourism destination, an eco-tourism attraction, and a cruise ship playground.

Garcia also cited as a good start the arrival in Subic last week of the London-based MV Spirit of Adventure, the first cruise ship to arrive here this year with 378 passengers on board, mostly Europeans.

“Tourism Sec. Robert Jimenez specifically told me that Subic will become a cruise ship destination. And that is true because all of the passengers expressed their happiness in coming here, especially after seeing our rich eco-tourism facilities,” Garcia said.

The SBMA official also said the SBMA will enhance the promotion of maritime businesses here by getting the support of the Department of Transportation and Communications to attract maritime logistics players to come to Subic, maximizing the Vale ore transshipment project, and developing Subic as home base for super yachts.

Garcia’s five-year plan also calls for the development of various residential types for specific markets, such as high-end residences, middle-class housing and workers’ dormitories.

The SBMA will also shift from merely being a landlord to being a developer, Garcia said, saying the agency will develop unutilized and idle properties, and will improve the ease and competitive cost of doing businesses in Subic.

Garcia said the most challenging strategy is the conversion of the Subic Bay International Airport into an integrated family-oriented tourist destination like the Sentosa, a family-oriented resort in Singapore.

“Basically, the idea is to turn the airport into world-class tourism destination with international theme parks, new golf course, duty free shops, hotels and casino entertainment complex among others,” Garcia explained.

“The opportunities that exist today are very tremendous, believe me. And our plan is very bold and very ambitious but with the support of everyone, this plan will come true,” he added.

The SOFA, an annual activity here sponsored by the Subic Bay Freeport Chamber of Commerce (SBFCC), was attended by Olongapo City Mayor James Gordon, Jr. and city councilors, Zambales Vice-Gov. Ramon Lacbain III, SBFCC officials and members, members of the SBMA Board of Directors, SBMA employees, and officials and workers from various Freeport companies. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:
SBMA Chairman and Administrator Roberto V. Garcia stresses a point during his State of the Freeport Address recently, wherein he unveiled a bold Five-Year Strategic Plan to transform Subic into a thriving maritime, ecotourism and high-tech industrial center.

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Hi-Fi tops Boracay Regatta

THE CHALLENGING and excitement-filled Subic to Boracay and the grueling Boracay Regatta Cup finished off in the late afternoon of March 2, 2012 in the pristine and alluring beach front of the Boracay Island.

Any avid sailor or sailing teams that have the knack and yen for sailing in strong wind conditions should not miss the opportunity to enlist for these annual sailboat races. The organizer expects more participants in the annual sailboat races in the years to come with the increase of foreign and local entries in the past two regattas.

Subic and Boracay were recognized and marked in the international sailing community as "must venues" for sailing in Asia.

Neil Pride and his professional crew on the sailboat Hi-Fi with four wins in a row won the much-coveted Boracay Regatta Cup and with Jun Avecilla’s (Phl) Beneteau First 36.7 Selma Star C! Calibre ROX won in the Cruiser/Racer Class. Ray Ordoveza’s (Phl) Excel 53 Karakoa clinched the Racing Class award with the Capri Carib 31 Freewheeler, skippered by David Wheeler, grabbing the PY Cruising Class award.

The event was organized by the Saturday Afternoon Gentlemen’s Sailing (SAGS) Club of Subic Bay under the auspices of the Philippine Sailing Association, Subic Bay Yacht Club, Philippine Tourism Authority, Philippine Coast Guard, Watercraft Ventures, Inc., Lighthouse Marina Resort, the Government of Aklan, SBMA and the Subic Bay Freeport Chamber of Commerce and with the sponsorship of San Miguel Corporation, PLDT, Cebu Pacific Air, Tieza, Tanduay, Nigi-Nigi Resort and BusinessWorld as media partner. (BusinessWorld)

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Belmonte, Wang discuss investments in Subic

MANILA - Representative Raymond Wang, of Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines, met recently with House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. over Taiwan’s growing investment in Subic, Bataan and other localities.

They were joined by Reps. Victor Ortega, George Arnaiz, Rachel Del Mar and Mylene Garcia-Albano.

Wang briefed Belmonte on the $2.5 billion infused by Taiwanese locators in Subic and the inauguration of the new China Airlines charter flight between Taipei and Cebu on March 31.

He cited business projects in Carmona, Cavite and in neighboring Laguna province, underscoring his country’s pragmatic diplomacy and the major achievements in Cross Strait relations in recent years to push for the Economic Cooperation Agreement and Mutual Legal Assistance Agreement between Taiwan and the Philippines.

Wang, Belmonte and other House members exchanged views on strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries through cooperation projects and exchange visits by legislators. (Manila Standard Today)

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SOFA 2012 set for Feb. 28

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority Chairman and Administrator Roberto V. Garcia is all set to deliver his first State of the Freeport Address (SOFA) today (Feb 28) at 2:00 pm at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center.

The SOFA, as the yearly report is now commonly referred to in the Subic Bay Freeport, is a traditional review of the Agency’s performance in the previous year, and a look into its present situation, as well as its future direction.

“This is will be a different report, as I intend to discuss the problems we are facing, which we are determined to address with the support of our locators,” Garcia noted.

As the highlight of the annual Freeport Community Forum conducted by the Subic Bay Freeport Chamber of Commerce (SBFCC), the event also includes the induction of new SBFCC officers by the SBMA chairman and administrator.

Expected to attend the afternoon affair are chamber officers and members, SBMA officials and employees, media members, and other Freeport locators and residents.

“While this Community Forum is open to all those interested, including the SBMA workforce, it will be a regular SBFCC meeting with the only Order of Business from the Chamber agenda to include the Induction of new SBFCC Officers”, Chamber President danny J. Piano said. (SBMA Corporate Communications)

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'Probe SBMA appointee mess'

MANILA - Malacañang has ordered an investigation into the alleged misrepresentation of a certain Mike Macapagal who claimed to have been named Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) administrator.

Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr. said President Aquino did not appoint Macapagal to the post being held by Roberto Garcia, who took his oath of office at Malacañang last Monday. Garcia was appointed on Nov. 21, 2011.

“Due to the confusion caused in SBMA by the statements of Mr. Macapagal and his representatives, I have directed the National Bureau of Investigation to conduct an investigation into the matter and prepare the filing of appropriate charges,” Ochoa said.

Based on reports, Ochoa said Macapagal supposedly presented to the media his appointment papers and a press release announcing his appointment as SBMA administrator. (Aurea Calica, Ric Sapnu, Philippine Star)

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SpeedFest comes to Subic; top of the line race cars to roar on runway

At least 70 top of the line, maximum performance, exotic cars will roar here for two days in the first ever SpeedFest to be held at the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA) on February 25-26.

The high-adrenaline action is organized by AutoIndustriya.com, the country's leading automotive industry website and forum.

The SBIA will be temporarily closed during the event, and no aircraft will be admitted to the airport except for emergency situations.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) chairman and administrator Roberto Garcia said that the organizer had completed all necessary requirements for this event, including permits from the Air Transportation Office (ATO).

“We have already coordinated with the ATO and other flying schools here, regarding the temporary closure of the airport to avoid accidents,” assured Garcia.

Event organizer Brent Co said that the race will be held on the SBIA runway to accommodate four-wheeled high-performance machines for the no-speed-limit Mile Run Event on Saturday.

On Sunday, meanwhile, all-out drag machines will tackle the Quarter Mile Drag Strip in the same venue.

“With the long and flat ‘race track’ this event is going to be the best opportunity for the drivers to test their skills and their machines’ driving performance,” Co said.

As a sidelight to the race, a Gymkhana event will also take place on both days for those who get their kicks with screeching tires as they take on the tight, challenging course designed by David Feliciano.

The event is open to public, but with entrance fees. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)

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PNoy swears in Garcia as SBMA chairman-administrator

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Roberto Garcia finally took his oath of office as chairman and administrator of the agency before President Benigno Aquino III, ending speculations that a new Palace appointee would take over the reins of the SBMA.

Garcia was sworn in, along with other new Palace appointees, on Monday in Malacañang.

He said that his appointment as SBMA Chairman and Administrator in effect unified both positions in conformance with the SBMA charter.

Garcia was originally appointed by President Aquino as chairman of the SBMA board of directors in April 2011. In November 2011, he was signed in as SBMA administrator. His term as chairman and administrator will end on June 30, 2016.

Garcia’s oath-taking on Monday was belatedly challenged by some reports saying that Michael Ted ‘Mike’ Macapagal had been appointed as SBMA administrator by President Aquino effective February 27.

A news report also said that Macapagal’s appointment was backed by political and business leaders in Olongapo City, including Aurelio Pineda and Ramon del Rosario, president and vice president, respectively, of the Metro Olongapo Chamber of Commerce, Inc.

However, both had since issued a written statement to disclaim their reported role in the “alleged endorsement of an aspirant to the SBMA.”

Garcia stressed that he works at the pleasure of the President. “I am ready to step down anytime if the President says so because the ultimate decision is the decision of the President,” Garcia said. (RFD/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:
President Benigo Aquino III congratulates SBMA chairman and administrator Roberto V. Garcia after the latter’s oath-taking at the Rizal Ceremonial Hall in Malacañang last Monday. With Garcia is his wife, the former Maribi Mapa.

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Garcia takes oath as SBMA Chairman & Administrator

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Roberto V. Garcia (4th from right) poses with President Benigno Aquino III after taking oath at the Rizal Ceremonial Hall in Malacañang on Monday, along with other new Palace appointees. Also in photo are members of Garcia’s family.

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US-based Filipino foundation fulfills promise to Subic Aeta kids

“I have returned.” Like that of a great general in World War II, a Filipino-American has fulfilled a promise he made two years ago to Aeta children in this free port.

Edilberto “Bert” Aguilera, a certified public accountant from Ibaan, Batangas, who now lives in New Jersey, USA, met an Aeta while visiting Subic in 2010 and made a promise to return with school supplies.

Aguilera, president of the family foundation Fil Aid USA, a US-based non-profit humanitarian organization, was then in Subic as part of the delegation from the Philippine-American Chamber of Commerce of Texas which organized a trade, tourism, and humanitarian mission to the Philippines on October 11 to 16, 2010.

On their last day at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center, which served as the venue, Aguilera met Tata Kasoy, an Aeta tribal elder living in Pastolan Village inside the Freeport.

“I met Tata Kasoy and made a promise that I would return to donate school supplies for the school children in his tribe,” Aguilera recalled.

In a surprise gesture on the second week of February this year, Aguilera, accompanied by his wife and three more family members, visited Subic Bay to fulfill his promise.

In coordination with the Public Relations Department of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), which regularly undertakes livelihood projects in Aeta villages here as part of the agency's corporate social responsibility program, Fil Aid USA visited elementary schools at Sitio Kanawan, Barangay Binaritan, and Pastolan Village in Hermosa, Bataan.

In Kanawan, where a simple turnover of donations was held, the group was met by tribal leaders headed by chieftain Rodelio Tamundong and school principal Jose Labandillo.

In Pastolan, Tata Kasoy was among those who greeted the group and was emotional in meeting Aguilera, who returned to fulfill his promise.

“Hindi ko na halos matandaan ang naging pag-uusap namin noon at hindi ko na inaasahan na matutupad iyon. Pero narito na nga siya at dala na ang ipinangakong mga gamit ng bata sa paaralan,” Tata Kasoy said.

Aguilera said his return is part of a mission to help the needy.

“This trip of ours could be a trailblazer because when I go back to US, we will make some publication about what we have done here for the school children, and probably others will follow suit,” Aguilera said.

“God is giving me energy while I’m doing this mission,” he added. This kind of project, he added, would be ideal for “people coming from abroad go to various places in the Philippines for a vacation. We in this mission are looking for places where we could help the needy,” Aguilera said. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)

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Subic is still the best retirement haven, Fil-Ams told

Subic is still the best place for retirement.

This was the message by Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) chairman and administrator Roberto Garcia to visiting Filipino-American delegates during the 22nd Trade Mission to the Philippines, a workshop-conference organized by the Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii and held at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC).

Garcia, who was keynote speaker in the conference dubbed “Global Citizenship: The Filipino American Experience,” updated the delegates on the strategic advantages of doing business or retiring in Subic.

“Aside from scenic views and friendly environment, Subic is a much secured area,” Garcia said, noting that the Subic Bay Freeport is securely bounded by perimeter fences and has a very good law enforcement unit that is well-known for its expertise and alertness.

Garcia added that Subic is also primed to push its advantage in medical tourism, having recently opened two world-class hospitals that cater to retirees and provide excellent medical services at very affordable rates.

“Subic is a very attractive place for tourists and retirees alike, providing both an eco-friendly environment and a cost-effective locality,” Garcia also pointed out.

Citing the experience of a Japanese friend who is paying P150,000 monthly for services in a nursing home where his aged mother stays, Garcia said this same amount “can already buy him a very nice house and lot with 24-hour service nurse here.”

“Now, my Japanese friend is considering retiring in the Philippines,” he added.

The recent trade mission here coincided with the annual outreach project of the American Services Division of the US Embassy in Manila for the large American resident community in the Subic Bay area.

On the same occasion, US Ambassador to the Philippines Harry Thomas personally answered some queries and concerns from the American community here.

Also invited to the same occasion were Carlo Ponti Zialcita, officer in charge of the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) at its Subic-Clark office, who talked about “The Philippines and Subic/Clark as a Retirement Community Destination”; Darrin Morgan, regional federal benefits officer at the US Embassy; and Dr. Dean Alegado, president of DT Alegado Consulting Group, who discussed issues and concerns related to retiring in the Philippines. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)

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SBMA welcomes UK cruise ship

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT – Colorful dance performances and a beautiful sunrise greeted foreign tourists here recently as the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) welcomed the arrival of the first cruise ship to dock here this year.

The United Kingdom-based M/V Spirit of Adventure docked at the Alava pier last Friday and disembarked 378 passengers and 201 crew members for a tour of the Freeport, including a jungle survival demonstration at the Pamulaklakin Aeta village.

The visitors, who have recently toured Palawan, Cebu and Manila, were pleasantly surprised to discover “hidden treasures” among the forests of the former Subic Naval Base here.

“When we got off, I was a bit disappointed because the environment was so American, but once we arrived at the Pamulaklakin trails, very quickly after that, we found Subic to be unique, very unique,” said Helen Pollard, one of the tourists from the M/V Spirit of Adventure.

Pollard said that she was impressed by the Aetas’ ability to make anything out of bamboo.

“I’m really impressed by the knowledge of these people, and how long it must have taken to get that knowledge. This is fabulous!” she added.

Pollard also found the people warm and sincere. She said that her visit to Subic was the most interesting part and the best day she had on tour.

The visitors also went to other tourist spots and the duty free shops inside the Freeport.

“It’s been a good experience and a good farewell to the Philippines for our guests,” said cruise director Neil Harrocks, adding that it was a delight to have Subic as their last stop in the Philippines.

“The passengers were very pleased to see that their welcome is extended not just by those who work here, but also by the local residents. The smiling, the waving, it’s been a delight,” he stated.

Harrocks also said that the passengers enjoyed the excursions and that everybody wanted to come back and explore Subic more.

Harrocks also had nothing but praises for the Filipinos. Most of the crew members aboard the ship are Filipinos.

While the M/V Spirit of Adventure was docked in Subic, several SBMA officials headed by deputy administrator for business and tourism Raul Marcelo, deputy administrator for administration Robert Martinez, and deputy administrator for operations Redentor Tuazon boarded the cruise liner to meet some of the crew members and tour the ship.

Marcelo said that with the ship’s visit, Subic has now established itself as a full-blown maritime facility, with its shipyard, ship repair, and cruise ship facilities.

The SBMA has been pushing the Subic Bay Freeport into becoming a top Asian cruise ship destination. The agency is a founding member of the Asia Cruise Terminals Association, which was recently launched in Singapore. (FMD/SBMA-MPD)

PHOTO:
Tourists disembark from the United Kingdom-based M/V Spirit of Adventure, the first cruise ship to visit the Subic Bay Freeport this year. The visitors toured popular attractions in Subic, including the Pamulaklakin Aeta village.

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Hanjin enrolls in DOLE's Kapatiran WISE-TAV

OLONGAPO CITY - Hanjin Heavy Industries & Construction Philippines (HHICP) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) yesterday signed a Memorandum of Understanding that effectively enrolls the Korean shipbuilding and construction giant to the DOLE's "Big Brother, Small Brother" Program, otherwise known as the Kapatiran WISE-TAV, the program that encourages big companies (Big Brother) to practice corporate social responsibility by coaching small companies (Small Brother) in eventually becoming fully compliant with labor laws and occupational safety and health (OSH) standards.

Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz signed the MOU on behalf of the DOLE, while President Ahn Jin Kyu signed on behalf of HHICP.

DOLE Regional Director Raymundo Agravante and Bureau of Working Conditions Director Brenda Villafuerte witnessed the signing held at the sprawling HHICP shipbuilding facility, the most modern and the largest in Southeast Asia, in Brgy. Cawag, Subic Bay Freeport Zone, in Zambales.
The MOU effectively covers 16 HHICP contractors, subcontractors, and services providers and involves 22,000 workers.

The Kapatiran WISE-TAV Para sa Mas Ligtas, Malusog, at Produktibong Manggagawa, is a flagship public-partnership program of the DOLE, and is anchored on the ILO's Work Improvement in Small Enterprises, whose action-oriented approach has long proven to link productivity and product quality to safer and better working conditions.

Baldoz, who delivered a message during the signing, hailed the HHIPC’s for enrollment in the program, as it is a big step towards instilling a culture of voluntary compliance with labor laws and occupational safety and health standards in the company.

"I consider this occasion very important and significant. This is a very good starting point of our partnership towards productivity and compliance with labor laws and occupational safety and health standards, given that the HHICP has faced a number of concerns in the past few years," she said.

She explained that the administration of President Benigno S. Aquino III is committed to create and nurture an environment conducive to sustainable businesses that creates decent jobs.

Baldoz announced during the signing ceremony that she is assigning no less than Regional Director Agravante as her focal person at the HHICP’s Kapatiran WISE TAV

"Director Agravante knows what that means, so you can call him directly because he can mobilize other offices of the DOLE under him in the region to assist you," the labor and employment chief said.

On his part, Mr. Ahn Jin Kyu said that as "Big Brother, HHICP is most willing to share its safety and health standards with its contractors, subcontractors, and services providers."

This is the second memorandum of understanding that the DOLE has signed this year under the Kapatiran WISE TAV. The first was signed last January between DOLE Region 3 and Yokohama Philippines.

To date, 79 "Big Brothers" and 804 "Small Brothers" are enrolled under the program, effectively covering 177,000 workers, who benefit from the MOU in terms of better labor conditions and safer and healthier work places.

Baldoz reiterated that its collaboration with private companies under the Kapatiran WISE TAV is meaningful for inclusive growth and the promotion of productivity and competitiveness.

“Through the Kapatiran program, the DOLE considers private sector establishments as partners in ensuring voluntary compliance to labor laws and safety and health standards. We know they play a positive and developmental role in enhancing the welfare and protection of our workers and in promoting productivity and competitiveness and sound and harmonious labor-management relations,” Baldoz emphasized. (DOLE LCO)

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UK-based cruise ship to visit Subic Freeport

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT - The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) will welcome the first international cruise ship to dock in this free port this year, as M/V Spirit of Adventure arrives from Manila on February 17 as part of its Southeast Asian tour.

The ship, which is based in the United Kingdom, has 378 passengers and more than 200 crew members on board. They are scheduled to visit key tourist spots in the Subic Freeport such as the Pamulaklakin Aeta village and Camayan Beach.

M/V Spirit of Adventure has been to Malaysia, Brunei and Borneo before arriving at Puerto Princesa in Palawan recently. The ship will then proceed to Cebu and Manila before docking at Subic.

Raul Marcelo, SBMA deputy administrator for business and tourism, said that the cruise ship’s visit is an opportunity to show that the Subic Bay Freeport is ready to be a top cruise ship destination in the Philippines and in Asia.

He also said that the SBMA has already made arrangements to ensure the passengers’ safety and convenience during their ten-hour stay here.

The SBMA has been grooming the Freeport as a major cruise ship destination since it co-founded in 2010 the Asia Cruise Terminals Association (ACTA), a group seeking to provide a unified marketing platform for the cruise ship industry in the Asian region.

Last year, the SBMA hosted ACTA’s second pro-tem meeting before the group was formally launched in Singapore last November.

Marcelo said that Subic stands to get a windfall from the cruise industry, which also eyes the growing number of wealthy Asians as a “source market.” (FMD, SBMA-MPD)

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‘Pnoy Pawikans’ released at Subic Freeport

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT – A total of 114 turtle hatchlings were released into the sea here by students on the occasion of President Aquino’s birthday on Wednesday.

According to All Hands Beach Resort official Mark Dayrit, the turtles which hatched at about 12:30 a.m. on February 8 were collectively nicknamed “PNoy Pawikans” as their birth coincided with the President’s birthday.

The baby turtles were released by some students from the Brent International School in Subic Freeport, employees of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), and members of local community organizations.

Cynthia Robles of Greg’s Waterworld, a tourism establishment in this free port, said that the hatchlings that were released into the wild belonged to the Olive Ridley species, one of the three species of sea turtles that lay eggs along the Zambales coastline.

The Olive Ridley is described to be a small sea turtle, with an adult carapace length averaging from 60 to 70 centimeters. Olive Ridley turtles are best known for their behavior of synchronized nesting in mass numbers.

The All Hands Beach is among the few known turtle nesting sites in the Subic Freeport, leading the management of the resort to pledge give its assurance to preserve the area as a turtle conservation site.

Dayrit said five of the nine clusters of sea turtle eggs laid at All hands have already hatched and released into the sea without having been endangered by predators. Among the recent hatchlings were those of a Hawksbill, a critically-endangered species.

“We contacted the SBMA Ecology Center to ask their support in caring for these animals,” Dayrit said, adding that the resort staff also signified willingness to help in the conservation of these vulnerable animals especially during their nesting season.

He said that the Ecology Center has given them tags to identify the turtles that lay eggs at the resort, as well as a chart to record the number of eggs laid, along with a guide on how to relocate eggs to safer places along the beach.

The resort staff have also given free lectures among visitors, helping make elementary and high school students aware of the need to protect the marine creatures. For this, the management is giving free rides to lecture participants, from the Subic Freeport main gate to the resort, which is about 20 kilometers away.

“We want to make sure that our children get first-hand experience on how to handle these animals. Awareness among people is the key in the protection and survival of the sea turtles,” Dayrit said. (Jonas Reyes, Manila Bulletin)

PHOTO:
Newly-hatched Olive Ridley turtles are released into the sea at the All Hands Beach Resort in the Subic Bay Freeport.

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SBMA to ban plastic bags, Styrofoam to protect environment

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) is consulting its stakeholders on the proposed policy to prohibit retail establishments inside the Subic Bay Freeport from using plastic bags and Styrofoam as packaging materials.

SBMA Chairman Roberto Garcia said the proposal is in line with the SBMA’s desire to reduce, if not totally eliminate, the use of plastic film bags in an effort to protect public health and welfare, as well as the local environment and wildlife.

Garcia noted that the agency is mandated to conserve and protect the environment of the Subic Freeport, as well as its surrounding communities. He also pointed out that Subic is among the few remaining areas in the country where rainforests can be found.

Garcia said that the SBMA Solid Waste Management Division collects almost 35 tons of garbage everyday inside the free port zone. Of these, 15 percent or 6.5 tons are plastic and Styrofoam, which are mostly used as packaging materials.

“Those that are not collected usually end up clogging canals, creeks, rivers and other waterways, thus posing a significant source of marine debris. These are hazardous to marine animals and birds,” Garcia said.

“From an overall environmental and economic perspective, the best thing the SBMA can do is to require retail establishments to refrain from using plastic bags and Styrofoam, and shift to reusable non-plastic carry-out bags or biodegradable materials,” he said.

In response, restaurant, canteen and food kiosk operators attending the consultation-forum organized by the SBMA Ecology Center signified full support of the new policy, but expressed concern over the availability of alternative packaging materials they may use.

“We support the policy eliminating plastics, but we need some time to find other alternatives materials to replace our plastic cups, bags and Styrofoam,” says Kristy Dizon of Ed-Beng Kiosk.

College of Subic Montessori principal Imee Lacbain Alejo asked the SBMA to invite producers of alternative packaging materials to conduct product exhibits in the Freeport so that stakeholders would be apprised of available environment-friendly products.

Meanwhile, Liway Santiago of Pideli Cafe here urged fast food and kiosk operators inside the Freeport to advocate the proper disposal of plastics while alternative materials are not yet available.

The SBMA had tasked its Ecology Center to conduct consultations with stakeholders and explain the policy guidelines to affected businesses, and later to implement and monitor the effective implementation of the new policy.

During the consultation with retailers, SBMA Ecology Center manager Amethya Koval said that the proposed policy is expected to take effect in June 2012, but for the purpose of moratorium, all business establishments and individual retailers are given six months, or until December this year, to comply with the new regulation.

After December 2012, retail establishments will be prohibited from providing plastic bags to customers as packaging materials for dry or wet goods, or selling and providing Styrofoam containers for food, produce and other products. Violators will be fined accordingly.

Exempted from this regulation are original packaging of goods delivered to Subic Freeport establishments. However, when new plastic or plastic bag is to be used in repacking the goods purchased by a consumer, then the new policy would apply. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)

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Vale Starting Subic Ore Transshipment

SINGAPORE (Reuters) – Brazil's Vale will begin its iron ore distribution operations in the Philippines this weekend, the Philippine port operator said, from where the world's top miner of the raw material will transfer China-bound ore brought in by big ships.

Vale is taking a more costly route to deliver iron ore to China, its top market, which has barred the miner's giant dry bulk vessels from entering its ports to shield its domestic shipping industry.

The miner has set up a transshipment hub in the Philippines' Subic Bay port using a floating storage vessel which will start operations on Feb. 12. It is also building a $1.3-billion iron ore distribution hub in Malaysia's northern Perak state, which could be ready to handle the giant ships by 2014.

China last week barred Vale's mega ships called Valemaxes – which at 400,000 deadweight tons each are the world's biggest dry bulk carriers – to protect its shipping sector hit hard by the economic downturn and freight rates that have fallen to their lowest in more than a quarter century.

''When Vale starts full operations on Feb. 12, we expect the SBMA (Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority) to earn some 70 million pesos ($1.64 million) in additional income in the first year alone because of the projected increase in ship calls,'' Roberto Garcia, chairman of SBMA, said in a statement late on Monday.

Vale's Ore Fabrica, the world's largest dry bulk floating storage vessel, arrived in Subic Bay last week. The 280,000-deadweight-tonne vessel will serve as a platform to transfer iron ore from the Valemaxes to smaller vessels for transport to Asian markets led by China.

A Valemax, Vale Brasil, is expected to arrive in Subic on Feb. 12, Reuters shipping data showed. SBMA said it expects Vale Brasil to dock a day later.

Vale was hoping its planned fleet of 35 Valemaxes would slash its shipping costs to China to help it better compete with Australian rivals BHP Billiton and Rio Tinto.

But some analysts have said the cost of the transshipment centers would unlikely outweigh any savings from using the Valemaxes.

Vale has said its plan to build a fleet of 35 giant ore carriers, of which six are already in service, had not changed despite China's ban. (Manolo Serapio Jr., Manila Bulletin)

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Subic Freeport eyes P70-M income from Vale transshipment project

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) expects to generate additional revenue of as much as P70 million with the transshipment operation here of Brazil’s Vale Mining, the world's biggest iron ore producer.

SBMA Chairman Roberto Garcia said the agency, which also administers the Port of Subic, has entered into an agreement with Vale Mining, making this free port the hub of Vale’s iron transshipment operations in Asia and turning Subic into a major player in the maritime logistics industry in the Asia Pacific Region.

“The main reason why Vale has located its operations here is Subic’s strategic location in the Asia-Pacific region,” Garcia said. “And it’s all about economies of scale. Vale will haul its ore products to Subic using its big carriers, then transfer the iron ore to smaller vessels, which the smaller ports in China will be able to accommodate,” he said.

“This is a very fortuitous development for SBMA because Subic will be at the very center of what is expected to be the biggest ship-to-ship transfer operations in the world in terms of volume,” Garcia noted.

“When Vale starts full operations on February 12, we expect the SBMA to earn some P70 million in additional income in the first year alone because of the projected increase in ship calls, as well,” Garcia added.

According to SBMA deputy administrator for port operations Redentor Tuazon, Vale will utilize its Valemax carrier vessels, which have a capacity of up to 400,000 deadweight tons (DWT), to deliver iron ore to several ports in China, now the world’s biggest user of iron ore.

The company will carry out its iron ore transshipment operation from its Valemax mother vessels, supplying ore to smaller daughter vessels, or feeders, which are either Panamax or Capesize types. The especially-designed floating terminal that will supply feeder ships will be anchored in Subic Bay.

Tuazon said that preparations are now underway for the initial transshipment operations with M/V Ore Fabrica, the floating terminal station that arrived here last Monday, January 31, and M/V Vale Brazil, which is set to arrive on February 13.

Owing to the magnitude of the transshipment operation, Tuazon said that various marine safety measures have been put into place, including the conduct of hazard and operability (HAZOP) analysis jointly made by representatives of Vale Brazil, SBMA, and agent companies involved in the operations.

All of the vessels to be used in the operation are insured and covered with protection and indemnity insurance, Tuazon added.

The SBMA has been aggressively pushing for the Port of Subic Bay to be a premier marine logistics hub in the region, as it continues to develop the market for the full utilization of Subic’s container terminals.

Recently, it has also offered various incentives to shipping companies for the development of new shipping routes to Singapore and Hongkong.

The arrival of Vale Brazil here would help Subic secure its place on the map in terms of floating terminal operations, Chairman Garcia said. (SBMA Corporate Communications)

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Subic workshops set to help promote Philippine competitiveness

Globally-acknowledged competitiveness gurus will share their expertise on quality, productivity, workplace cooperation and benchmarking in the forthcoming national symposium-workshops to be held here from March 27 to 30.

The symposium-workshops are being organized through a public-private-partnership (PPP) between Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and Quality Partners Co., Ltd. (QPCL).

The event is divided into a pre-symposium seminar-workshop on “Scientific Benchmarking for Excellence” which will be held on March 27 and 28, and the seminar-workshop dubbed as “Workplace Cooperation for Quality, Productivity and Competitiveness,” which will be conducted on March 29-30.

Both will be held at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC) in this free port.

SBMA Chairman Roberto Garcia said that both symposium-workshops are projected to be the initial activities in a long-range quest to develop a National Center for Excellence and a Resource Center for Quality and Productivity Information and Training with the Subic Freeport as the hub.

Garcia said the SBMA and QPCL are undertaking the project in the belief that quality, workplace cooperation and excellence will lift the country’s global competitiveness.

The pre-symposium seminar-workshop will be conducted by Dr. Robin Mann, chairman of the Global Benchmarking Network of New Zealand, a membership-based organization with members in more than 20 countries, and founder-head of the Center for Organizational Excellence Research (COER), Massey University, which undertakes research projects — both focusing on business excellence and benchmarking.

Mann has helped over 300 organizations undertake self-assessment, written 30 refereed journal papers, 100 non-refereed papers, six short books, and has been a frequent keynote presenter in 15 countries in 2011.

Meanwhile, Dr. Jose Gatchalian, chairman of QPCL, will address the participants of the seminar-workshop on workplace cooperation with his keynote piece entitled, “Workplace Cooperation: A Cutting Edge for Quality, Productivity and Competitiveness.”

Joining Dr. Gatchalian will be Globetel Philippines president Ernest Cu, who will discuss “Workplace Cooperation: Customer First Circle”; and University of the Philippines vice-president Dr. M.S.V. Amante who will talk about “Workplace Diversity and Cross-Cultural Work Relations.”

Meanwhile, the panel discussion will be conducted by a battery of panelists composed of successful and prominent resource speakers who shall share their experience and expertise in their respective field.

The symposium will be open to all top management executives and shop-floor leaders.

For inquiries and slot reservation, interested parties may send e-mail to qpcl.gatch@gmail.com or tqm.sbma.yahoo.com or call Ferdie Anatacio, QPCL (0915-974-7772) or Buds Fernando, SBMA (0917-552-4920). (SBMA Corporate Communications)

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Patilan, Santiago tops sprint triathlon age-group races in Subic

Fourteen-year-old Jimuel Patilan emerged one of the winners in yesterday’s 2012 Century Tuna first Leg National Age Group Triathlon Series at Dungaree Beach in Subic Bay Freeport.

A native of Olongapo City and a product of the Triathlon Association of the Philippines (TRAP) youth development program under coach Melvin Fausto, Patilan easily overcame Mark Pile and Jose Nobles with solid performance in the 350m swim, 16K bike and 2.5K run mini-sprint to record his first win since breaking into this endurance sport May of last year.

“I’ve been a consistent second place finisher to Allen Santiago in my past events including the Batang Pinoy National Finals. I’m glad to finally have won a race and this will keep my drive to become a national team player going,” said Patilan, who negotiated the distance in 42 minutes, 06 seconds.

A newcomer to the national pool, Santiago has moved up to the 750m swim, 20K bike and 5K run sprint race and opened his campaign with a bang by bagging the gold medal in the male 16-19 age group against the more seasoned Marc Alexander Altura (1:09:14).

Fast rising Magali Bernasconi Echauz ruled the female 13-15 mini-sprint in 48:15 to also maintain her lofty position as a potential member of the national pool.

A total of 248 triathletes saw action in the opening leg of the six-series NAGT being organized by TRAP and now presented by Century Tuna in cooperation with the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority.

“I’m happy that the NAGT is again off the ground since this is an important part in our year-long program. We are committed to continue holding the series with our supporters while financial assistance given to us by the Philippine Sports Commission will be channeled to our national athletes with a number of them products of the NAGT,” said TRAP president Tom Carrasco Jr.

CamSur triathlete Franklin Penaloza and British expat Carly Relf won the standard distance race in the event also supported by Gatorade, Arena, Standard Insurance and Asian Centre for Insulation Philippines Inc.

Penaloza negotiated the 1.5m swim, 40K bike and 10K run in 2:19:17 to bagged top honors in the male 35-39 division while Relf banked on her strength in the swim and bike for a 2:42:34 time and the gold in the female 35-39 category.

Other winners: John Paul Gaviola (17-19), Jeremiah Isip (25-29), Javy Olives (30-34), Levy Ang (40-44), Lorenzo Ocampo (45-49) and Eduardo Francisco (50-54), male; Karen Kate Pascual (25-29) and Ivy Mendoza (40-over).Bea Hufana and Clifton Esteban (adult mini sprin), t Aina Farid and Jenny Bautista (16-19 adult sprint); Fernando Diaz and Samanta Diaz (9-10) and Nathan Nalo and Veronica Deldio (11-12), STK Aquathlon. (The Philippine Star)

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Subic-Boracay sea race slated

MANILA - Sam Chan’s TP52 Free Fire seeks to defend its double-championship as it leads entries in the Subic Bay-to-Boracay race and the Boracay Cup this month.

The twin event, held under the auspices of the Philippine Sailing Association and supported by the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and the provincial government of Aklan, officially starts Feb. 24 with the awards rites set March 2.

“The Subic Bay to Boracay Race is one of the most challenging and tactical races that I enjoy and Boracay is the Mecca of sailing in Asia and is a must for all serious sailors,” said former Asian Grand Prix yachtsman winner Frank Pong.

The second Subic Bay-to-Boracay race is the successor to the discontinued Manila-Boracay Race and, with its inaugural success together with the holding of the Boracay Cup Regatta 2011, has got its place in the Asian Yachting Grand Prix Circuit.

The race is a 200-mile ISAF Cat 3 offshore race, and the starting signal will sound Feb. 25 off the Lighthouse Marina Resort, Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales.

Depending on the size of the boat, the race takes between 20-40 hours.

This will be followed by four days of windward-leeward races and races around the beautiful and pristine island of Boracay.

The races, known collectively as Boracay Cup Regatta, will be held Feb. 28-March 2.

Over 30 grand prix race yachts and 300-400 local and foreign-based top notch sailors will vie for the prestigious Asian Yachtsman-of-the-Year and Yacht titles.

The twin event is organized by the Saturday Afternoon Gentlemen’s Sailing (SAGS) Club, in cooperation with the Subic Bay Yacht Club, Watercraft Ventures, Inc. and The Lighthouse Marina Resort.

Sponsors include Cebu Pacific, San Miguel Brewery, Petron, PLDT, Resort World Philippines, Tanduay, Nigi Nigi Resort Boracay, Crafts of Boracay, Philippine Coast Guard and Philippine Tourism Authority.

Subic Bay will also host two of the 12 prestigious regattas of the Asian Yachting Grand Prix Championship.

The races determine the Asian Yachting Skipper and Yacht of the Year.

Following the Rolex China Sea Race, Subic Bay will host the Commodores Cup Regatta in April.

Competitive sailing in the Asian Yachting Grand Prix Championship started last year with the China Coast Regatta, Hongkong-Vietnam Race, Rajah Muda Selangor in November and the Phuket King’s Cup in December.

The Royal Langkawi International Regatta and the Singapore Straits Regatta were held just recently.

The Top of the Gulf Regatta and Coronation Cup and the Sawadee.com Regatta Samui are the last two events to be contested between the months of May and July 2012. (The Philippine Star)

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With China shut, Vale iron ore ships head to Philippines (Two of Vale's giant ships to arrive in Subic Bay)

SINGAPORE - Two of the world's biggest iron ore carriers are due to arrive in Subic Bay Freeport for the first time next month, shipping data showed, as Brazilian mining giant Vale looks to use the Philippines as an alternative base to reach Chinese ports.

China, the world's largest iron ore importer and Vale's top market, has yet to fully open its seaports to the giant vessels after domestic ship owners strongly protested the arrival of the first and only vessel of the type into the country in late December.

With accessibility to Chinese ports uncertain, Vale has been forced to rely on its transshipment hub in the Philippines, a costlier alternative that involves employing more vessels and workers.

"I'm not surprised that Vale is sending its ships to the Philippines. They have no choice with China's ports still closed off to them," said a Singapore-based ship broker.

"They have to keep these ships moving or face major losses."

The 400,000-deadweight-tonne Vale China is due to arrive in Subic Bay Freeport, located in the Philippines' main Luzon island, on Feb. 22, shipping data showed.

That is 10 days after similar-sized Vale Brasil is expected to dock.

'A LOT OF MONEY'

Draught measurements indicated the two ships were fully loaded, each likely carrying around 350,000 tonnes of iron ore, traders said.

At current iron ore prices, the value of each cargo is nearly $50 million.

"That's quite a lot of money. Vale may be struggling to sell shipments of 200,000-300,000 tonnes in one go and so it makes more sense for them to break it up," said an iron ore trader in Singapore.

Vale's plan is to set up a floating storage vessel in its planned transshipment hub in Subic Bay from where iron ore would be transferred to smaller vessels such as panamaxes or capesizes and then transported to buyers in Asia.

Keeping readily available iron ore in Subic Bay would also allow Vale to quickly meet China's requirements, the Singapore trader said, since vessels from Brazil take at least a month before they reach China, versus about a week from the Philippines.

Vale officials in Singapore declined to comment.

Vale is also setting up a transshipment centre in Malaysia as an alternative to Chinese ports.

The Brazilian miner in October broke ground for a $1.3 billion iron ore distribution centre in Malaysia's northern Perak state, which could be ready to handle the giant ships by 2014.

Vale is banking on a fleet of 35 Valemaxes to slash shipping costs to China and better compete with Australian rivals BHP Billiton and Rio Tinto .

The 388,000-tonne Berge Everest was the first and only Valemax allowed into China, docking at Dalian Port on Dec. 28 to unload iron ore that has yet to be sold.

The China Shipowners Association has helped keep further ships from arriving at its domestic ports. The group fears the fleet will give Vale a monopoly on both the shipping and iron ore markets at China's expense. (Randy Fabi and Manolo Serapio Jr., Reuters)

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TRAP Age Group series slated in Subic

THE recruitment program of the Triathlon Association of the Philippines goes into high gear in scenic Subic when the 2012 National Age Group Triathlon series presented by Century Tuna gets going on Feb. 5.

Triathletes can choose to race either in the standard distance course (1.5K swim-40K bike-10K run) or in the sprint distance course (750-M swim-20K bike-5K run).

Triathletes aged 16 to 19 will race in sprint distance while participants aged 13 to 15 as well as first-timer adult participants will endure the mini-sprint course (350-M swim-16K bike-2.5 K run).

The SuperTriKids Aquathlon will be held over a 200-M swim-400-M run (for participants aged 9 to 10) and 350-M swim-1.5K run (for 11-12 years).

At stake in the event sponsored by the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, Century Tuna, Gatorade, Philippine Sports Commission, Asian Centre for Insulation Philippines Inc. and ARENA are medals and gift certificates for the top 3 winners of each age-group as well those in the sprint, mini-sprint and STK aquathlon. All participants can avail of post-race brunch that will be offered starting at 8:30 a.m.

The swim event will be held at the Dungaree Beach while cycling will start at the beach venue reaching specific turning points around the Freeport. Afterwards, participants will return to Dungaree Beach for the run leg and the finish line.

Close to 250 participants have so far registered for the event. Interested parties may contact the TRAP at 710-8259, 399-6598, mobile number 0915-6394233, or log on to rreyes_upm@yahoo.com or visit Triathlon.org.ph. (Malaya)

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Mendoza rules Subic run

Ryan Mendoza and Jul Laiza Camposano ruled the 42.125K marathon over a field of 4,000 runners in the 2012 Subic International Marathon at the Remy Field of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority last weekend.

Mendoza finished in three hours, seven minutes, four seconds, while Camposano clocked 3:58:10, to bag the top prize of P20,000 each in the event organized by eXtribe, Inc. in partnership with the SBMA, PNP and AFP.

Jofill Sabado and Monica Torres topped the 21K event with clockings of 1:20.44 and 1:32:52, respectively. They received P10,000 each. The 10K winners were Lohn Leerams Chicano (34:19) and Merlyn Lumagbas (46:03) who received P5,000 each.

Gen. Sammy Tucay, SIM founder and chairman, joined the runners of the 10K event while Father Melo Diola of the DILAAB Foundation joined the runners of the 21K event.

The 2012 SIM was organized to support the community transformation programs of Christian Officers Reform the Police Service (CORPS) and the DILAAB Movement.

The participation of both local and international runners from the US, Canada, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore raised P120,000 for the programs that will benefit street children in Olongapo and Metro Manila. Father Diola received the check for CORPS and DILAAB Movement. (Philippine Star)

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SBMA fast-tracks accreditation of Ayala mall merchants

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has processed the business application of more than 400 local and international companies wishing to locate at the Ayala Harbor Point mall here by conducting a one-day, one-stop business processing designed to fast-track the accreditation of the new business locators.

“This is a first time in SBMA that we have put together all permit-issuing SBMA departments in a business processing event to simplify the process,” SBMA Chairman Roberto Garcia said.

“We hope that we could encourage more merchants to invest here when they see how easy it is for businesses to set up shop in Subic,” Garcia added.

The one-stop registration process was introduced after an “unprecedented volume” of non-Subic Bay Freeport (SBF) enterprise firms signified intention to sub-lease commercial spaces at the Harbor Point Mall, which is now under construction at the central business district of this free port.

Harbor Point marketing manager Argee Gomez said Ayala is about to finish the basic structure of the mall and is now allowing merchants to start the development and provisioning of their stalls.

“This will, with the full support and cooperation of the SBMA, help fast-track the construction of the Harbour Point mall and allow us to meet the target operation date,” he added.

Among the requirements that each merchant should complete before operating a business in Subic are: business registration from the Business & Investment Department – Leisure; accreditation permit intended for suppliers, contractors or service providers from the Accreditation Department; building permit from the Building Permit & Safety Department; environmental permit from the Ecology Department; gate passes for employees from the Office Services Department; sanitary clearance from the Public Health & Safety Department; and vehicle passes from the Transportation & Communication Department.

After going through said requirements, the business locator then pays all fees to the SBMA Treasury Department before the permits would be released by the issuing departments.

During the one-day, one-stop accreditation process, the SBMA’s Management Information Systems Department and Tourism Department also provided support to smoothen the processing flow, noted Chairman Garcia.

In view of the accreditation of its sub-leases, Harbor Point expects to open up more than 2,000 job opportunities, initially, for residents of the Subic Bay Freeport, Olongapo City, and the provinces of Zambales and Bataan.

Gomez said a wide range of jobs will be available – store managers, human resource personnel, management trainees, supervisors, merchandisers, store marketing officers, accounting staff, customer service representatives, programmers, sales clerks, service crew, stockmen, kitchen staff, bartenders, security guards, maintenance personnel, massage therapist, cashiers, warehousemen, and janitors, to name a few.

Because of this, the company will be holding a job fair, dubbed as “Careers at Harbor Point,” on January 26 and 27, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the Subic Bay Gym.

Gomez also explained that Harbor Point mall, which is fully owned by Ayala Land Inc., would feature open-air spaces, a garden, an active zone, aside from facilities where the public can shop, dine and relax.

It will also have international and local high-end stores, as well as a transport terminal with lounges and comfort rooms, and ample parking spaces for vehicles.

Gomez added that Ayala malls all over the country are named differently from each other to highlight the distinct characteristic of the place where they are built. As such, the Ayala mall here was named Harbor Point because of Subic’s bayside location. (SBMA Corporate Communications)

PHOTO:
SBMA personnel assist more than 400 international and local firms that are registering for business operations at the Ayala Harbor Point Mall in the Subic Bay Freeport.

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Phoenix Petroleum acquires Subic firm

LISTED OIL firm Phoenix Petroleum Philippines, Inc. has completed its acquisition of Subic Petroleum Trading and Transport Philippines, Inc., the company said in a disclosure to the bourse recently.

Phoenix Petroleum is looking to use the license to operate of Subic Petroleum inside the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

“Pursuant to the separate approvals of the Board of Directors as well as the stockholders last January 28, 2011 and March 11, 2011, respectively, we would like to announce that the company has concluded the purchase of 100% of the shares of Subic Petroleum,” Phoenix Petroleum said in its disclosure.

Subic Petroleum “is engaged in the business of buying and selling, supply and distribution, importation and exportation, storage and delivery of all types of petroleum for industrial, marine, aviation and automotive use.”

Phoenix Petroleum announced its plans to acquire Subic Petroleum in February last year.

“The company is actually a small firm which has no physical assets and we paid around P2 million for the acquisition. Our primary objective in the purchase is the license to operate in the Subic Bay Freeport and service locators in the area that our other depots cannot service,” said Phoenix Petroleum Chief Finance Officer Joseph John L. Ong in a telephone interview with BusinessWorld.

He added Phoenix Petroleum wants to provide petroleum and fuel to industrial locators in the area and there are no plans to build retail service stations so far.

It acquired the firm at a price of P800 per share for a total of 2,500 shares held by Subic Petroleum’s former owners.

The company said funding for the purchase “is sourced primarily from internally generated funds.”

Phoenix Petroleum’s net income from January to September 2011 rose 61% to P416.7 million from year-ago levels of P258.5 million.

The growth was attributed to stronger revenues from “the expansion of the independent oil company’s retail network and increase in sales from its retail and commercial accounts.”

Revenues of the company increased by 111.4% to P20.7 billion in the nine-month period ending September compared to P9.8 billion in the same period in 2010.

Phoenix Petroleum currently has a network of 198 stations at the end of September from 161 stations at the end of 2010. Majority of the stations are located in Mindanao with eight in the Visayas and 48 in Luzon.

Shares of Phoenix Petroleum remained unchanged at P11 apiece. (Emilia Narni J. David, BusinessWorld)

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Brazilian iron ore ship heads for Philippines

SINGAPORE­ -- A giant iron ore vessel owned by Brazil’s Vale, a multinational mining company, is on its maiden voyage to the Philippines and is expected to dock at Subic Bay in early February, Reuters data and shipping sources said on Monday.

The 400,000-deadweight-ton (dwt) Vale Brasil would be the second of the company’s so-called Valemaxes, which are very large ore carriers, to sail to Asia.

The first vessel, the 388,000-dwt Berge Everest, unloaded at Dalian Port on Dec. 28, 2011, ending months of delays in getting the world’s biggest dry bulk ships into China, Vale’s top market.

The cargo, estimated at 350,000 tons, has yet to be sold, however, and is sitting in storage, traders said.

Vale is banking on a fleet of 35 Valemaxes to slash shipping costs to China and better compete with Australian rivals BHP Billiton and Rio Tinto.

Reuters Freightviews and independent shipping data showed Vale Brasil is scheduled to arrive in Subic Bay on Feb. 11. Draught measurements indicated the vessel was fully loaded with cargo.

Vale Brasil was supposed to be the first of Vale’s huge ships to arrive in Asia, but was diverted last June to Italy after the Chinese government failed to provide permission for the ship to dock at Dalian Port.

A source at Subic Bay Freeport said they had not yet been advised of the Vale Brasil’s arrival.

“But we are ready anytime to accept the ships,” the source told Reuters, adding the port is deep enough to accommodate Valemaxes.

Vale aims to turn Subic into an iron ore transshipment center, where it can dock its Valemaxes, transfer cargo to smaller vessels and then use these to supply its clients in other parts of Asia.

Sources at Subic Port had said they expected the transshipment operations to start in late January or early February, as soon as Vale’s ship arrives.

The Philippine facility would be the first of at least two transshipment centers Vale is planning to open in Asia.

The Brazilian miner in October broke ground for a $1.3-billion iron ore distribution center in Malaysia’s northern Perak state which would be ready to handle the Valemaxes by 2014.

The China Shipowners Association has opposed Vale’s fleet, worried that the vessels will give the miner monopoly on both the shipping and iron ore markets at China’s expense.

The influential group has also raised concerns about the safety of the huge ships after Vale Beijing, the newest member of the Valemax fleet, developed cracks in its hull on its maiden voyage last month. (Reuters)

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SubicTel opposes wi-tribe petition

A WHOLLY owned subsidiary of Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co. (PLDT) wants the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) to deny the application of San Miguel Corp.’s telecom unit to offer broadband services in the areas within the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA).

In a filing with the NTC, Subic Telecom said that the feasibility study done by wi-tribe Telecoms Inc. does not establish its legal capacity to the propose broadband services in its target market.

“The study does not show that wi-tribe is financially capable to operate the proposed wireless broadband service and that is economically viable and feasible for it to operate within the Subic Special Economic Zone,” Subictel said.

It added that the technical study and report of wi-tribe is essentially based on conjuncture and wish lists.

“The figures are not based on actual existing data. Wi-Tribe, a new player in the telecommunication industry simply does not have the figures to support its claims,” Subictel said.

“Nowhere is it established that the Subic Economic Zone may absorb a new market entrant. It certainly does not establish compliance with any jurisdiction requirements,” the PLDT affiliate added.

At present, Subictel is providing digital subscriber line (DSL) and other broadband services in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Olongapo City and Subic town areas.

Documents filed with the NTC showed that Wi-Tribe plans to spend P354 million for the proposed wireless broadband service in the Subic Special Economic Zone (SSEZ) for over a period of five years.

Wi-Tribe estimated an annual broadband subscribers of 15,484 for year five of operation.

The perceived market size of the SSEZ Internet market is 47,506 based on 2007,2009 and 2010 historical figure.

The SSEZ includes Olongapo City, Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Municipalities of Subic, Zambales, Hemosa and Morong in Bataan.

The pricing options to be offered to the SSEZ potential customers are Plan 598 for 512 kbps; Plan 998 for 1mbps and Plan 1998 for 2mbps.

Wi-Tribe said the schedule for roll out will start this year depending on the issuance of all permits required from the local and national governing agencies.

For initial roll out, Wi-Tribe said the current frequency assigned to the company on the 2.5Ghz and 700 MHz nationwide will be used.

In SSEZ, Wi-Tribe will be deploying 75 sites using 2.5 Ghz frequency at 5 Mhz, or 10Mhz channel. bandwidth. (Darwin G. Amojelar, The Manila Times)

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SBMA, Subic stakeholders bring Holiday cheers to indigent communities

While most companies and agencies were partying in celebration of the Christmas season, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authorities (SBMA) and some business locators and concerned groups in this free port were busy reaching out to indigent communities in the area.

The annual gift-giving activity, said SBMA Chairman Roberto Garcia, are part of the continuing commitment of the SBMA and various groups in the Subic Bay Freeport to share with indigent communities around the free port the blessings they receive each year.

“This is not any other donation or relief operation,” Garcia clarified. “This is sharing, in our humblest way, the blessings that Subic Freeport has received and will be receiving in the future.”

Garcia said that aside from the SBMA, many locator-companies in Subic coordinated with the agency to identify beneficiary communities for their gift-giving projects in line with their corporate social responsibility program.

Some of the recipients of the outreach projects by the SBMA and Subic locators were Aeta communities at Sitio Tralala in Olongapo City; Mampweng and Pastolan villages in Hermosa, Bataan; and Timac in Morong, Bataan.

Meanwhile, at the Nagbayan Elementary School in Castillejos, Zambales, a 600-liter water tank was installed and turned over by the Busan National University of Education (BNUE) in Korea to the public school to help ensure a clean and potable water system for its 300 students and teachers.

On behalf of Garcia, SBMA deputy administrator for administration Robert Martinez acknowledged the Korean state university for its benevolence and SBMA deputy administrators Knette Fernando and Raul Marcelo, public relations manager Armie Llamas, and Korean Freeport locator Vincent Chun for their efforts in tapping kind-hearted organizations for the benefit of poor communities nearby.

“They are the people who are responsible in getting our gift-giving program going. We should thank them for their efforts in inviting good Samaritans in our community to help the poor, especially this Christmas season” he said.

On his part, BNUE president Dr. Kim Sung Yon expressed his commitment in helping local communities, especially school children whom he described as future leaders of the country, as a gesture of gratitude for the heroism of Filipinos.

“Our history tells of a special relation between the Philippines and South Korea. We will not forget the (Filipino) troops who fought with us during the Korean War,” he said.

Kim added that with the assistance of the SBMA and local government units, BNUE will continue with its community projects to help improve the system of education for the benefit of the children and their future.

In Nagyantok, Subic, Zambales, teachers and students of the College of Subic Montessori (CSM) visited the Nagyantok Elementary School Annex to distribute assorted toys, school supplies and food packs to 290 pupils. The Montessori groups also conducted fun games and presented some song and dance numbers to cheer the less fortunate children.

CSM president Soledad Maningding said that the school’s gift-giving project was made possible through the initiatives of students.

“Instead of having an expensive Christmas party, the CSM high school and elementary students opted to collect used and new clothes, canned goods, toys, and even some personal savings to donate to the students in Nagyantok,” Maningding added.

She noted that CSM students and their parents are already planning to make the gift-giving project a yearly commitment as a way of sharing blessings to the less-privileged. (SBMA Corporate Communications)

PHOTO: Dr. Kim Sung Yon, president of Busan National University of Education (3rd from left) and Castillejos Mayor Jose Angelo Dominguez inaugurate a water tank donated to the Nagbayan Elementary School in Castillejos, Zambales. Assisting in the ceremony are SBMA deputy administrator for corporate communications Knette Fernando (right), officials of the Castillejos-Department of Education and representatives of Busan University.

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