United States Provides Assistance to Monsoon Victims in Central Luzon

Manila -- The U.S. Government, through the U.S. Embassy Manila’s United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is providing Php4.3 million ($100,000) to assist in the Philippine Government’s relief efforts for victims of flooding and landslides in Zambales and Bataan.

The two provinces suffered massive damage due to the southwest monsoon intensified by Typhoon Odette (international codename: Usagi).

Ambassador Harry K. Thomas, Jr. said, “On behalf of the U.S. Government and the American people, we extend our deepest condolences and sympathies to those who have lost their loved ones, homes and livelihoods. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of those affected.”

The assistance will provide for immediate relief items including hygiene kits and water purification supplies for up to 10,000 displaced and other affected people.

“I would like to commend the “bayanihan” spirit demonstrated by the communities in helping those in need. We will work with our Philippine Government counterparts to boost their relief efforts and help the victims overcome this tragedy,” the Ambassador remarked.

Over the past five years, the United States, through USAID has provided Php 3.4 billion in humanitarian assistance to help the Philippines cope with the effects of disasters through mechanisms to adapt, respond to, and prepare for these incidents. (http://manila.usembassy.gov/)

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Government plans to hire private company to dredge rivers to alleviate flood situation in Subic

MANILA - The Aquino government, through the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), plans to hire a private company to dredge the rivers in Subic, Zambales in an attempt to alleviate the worsening flood situation a Palace Official said on Tuesday.

Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte

Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte assured during the regular press briefing in Malacanang that the DPWH is now addressing the concerns of the Subic communities that were hit by Super Typhoon Odette.

The monsoon rains, enhanced by Odette (international name Usagi), poured incessantly over the weekend, swelling rivers, causing floodings and triggered landslides in Subic and other areas in Zambales.

Calaclan River and other rivers that pass through Subic were heavily silted and overflowed, causing the floods.

"Apparently, there is already a dredger from DPWH that is on standby in Olongapo. But it has not been operational since August of 2011 because there is a certain part -it's called a converter module, na sira. It's not working because of that and there are no available parts in the market. That's why Secretary (Rogelio) Singson said that they are already considering contracting out the dredging to a private company," Valte said.

Aside from dredging the rivers, Valte said the DPWH also plans to widen watersways to address the massive floodings.

"It's not just the dredging kasi that is the solution. Siguro the knee-jerk solution to any siltation in a river would be desiltation and dredging. But, as what always Secretary Singson says, 'yung widening also of the waterways a kailangan," Valte said.

"And, normally, the widening is hampered by the presence of some structures along those rivers—or, at least, in this particular river—and the DPWH is dependent also on the local government to help in clearing the structures along the waterways," she said. PND (js)

Press Briefing by Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte, 24 September 2013 (VIDEO)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SPR1GVQr5W0&feature=player_embedded
PCOO EDP

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SBMA rescue team shift action to flushing flood debris

After helping out in search, rescue and retrieval operations as floodwaters submerged a large part of the Subic Bay area, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Fire and Rescue Team have now shifted their operations to clearing and flushing mud and other debris left by the receding waters.

“Our job never stopped in rescuing and retrieving. After the flood, SBMA Chairman Roberto Garcia has asked the SBMA Rescue Team to help fast-track the removal of debris, so we are now assisting in clearing activities,” SBMA Fire chief Ranny Magno said.

Using SBMA fire trucks, the agency’s volunteer operators continue to see action and are now working in Olongapo City—helping clear the mud from the public market, schools, churches, and streets.

“Everyone has volunteered to extend operations for several hours beyond their regular schedules,” Magno said.

Prior to this, the SBMA Rescue Team had been dispatched to flooded areas since Monday after rivers overflowed in Olongapo and the neighboring town of Subic, Zambales.

The job took them to the villages of Barretto, Sta. Rita, West Bajac-Bajac, and East Bajac-Bajac in Olongapo; Wawandue and Santa Monica in Subic town; Balaybay in Castillejos, Zambales; and in Dinalupihan, Bataan— rescuing residents who were stranded or trapped in flooded areas and bringing them to safety.

“It’s the worst flooding in local history, and in some areas the floodwater was ten feet deep,” Magno noted.

In Balaybay, Castillejos, and in Wawandue, Subic, the rescuers helped retrieve the bodies of landslide victims who were buried under tons of mud.

A total of 19 persons were killed in three separate landslides in Subic, while five perished in Castillejos.

The tragedy was caused by heavy monsoon rains, locally known as “Habagat,” which was enhanced by Typhoon “Odette.” The combination dumped a record volume of rain in the Subic Bay area, resulting in the flooding of low-lying barangays and coastal areas.

Despite the long hours of work, the SBMA rescuers remained in high spirit, Magno said. “Nobody complained, and all were willing to serve beyond the call of duty,” he added.

SBMA Chairman Roberto Garcia said the agency’s rescue operators are acknowledged to be exemplars of malasakit and volunteerism, which are among the core values of the agency.

The SBMA Rescue Team was the recipient of the 2009 Gawad KALASAG Award: Special Citation and Special Recognition for Best Support Organization/Institution in the national level “for the extraordinary courage, heroism, self-sacrifice, and bravery against all odds in times of emergencies and disasters.”

The award was for the assistance provided by the SBMA team in recovering and retrieving trapped miners in Itogon, Benguet in September 2008.

In January 2011, Magno was conferred the 2010 KALASAG Award by President Aquino for being the best disaster manager in the country. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:
SBMA firemen help clear mud left by the flood at Canda Street in Barangay East Bajac-Bajac, Olongapo City on Sunday. The SBMA Fire and Rescue Team also participated in the massive rescue effort to free residents trapped in their houses in Olongapo City during heavy flooding brought about by monsoon rains last week.

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Subic landslide areas declared permanent danger zones

SUBIC, Philippines – Areas hit by landslides triggered by the southwest monsoon in this town have been declared permanent danger zones.

Subic Mayor Jefferson Khonghun said residents of barangays Wawandue and San Isidro would not be allowed to return to their homes.

“We already relocated the residents living in those areas and we would no longer allow them to go back there,” he said.

Khonghun noted that the areas where the landslides occurred are not on the geohazard maps provided by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau.

“This is the first in the history of Subic that the landslides occurred in those areas,” he said.

Khonghun also stressed the need to dredge the Santo Tomas River, which is being blamed for the flashfloods in the town.

He appealed to the national government for more relief assistance to affected residents.

At least 128 families or 592 individuals are staying at evacuation centers – 78 families at Calapacuan Elementary School and 50 families at Wawandue sports complex.

Meanwhile, a massive cleanup is underway in Olongapo City, where 16 of the 17 villages were flooded.

Some parts of the city remain flooded, but city government officials and workers along with military personnel and employees from other agencies were clearing the streets of flood debris and mud.

Residents also started cleaning their homes while business owners resumed operations.

The flooding, the worst in the city’s history, swamped markets, stores, restaurants and offices, paralyzing school, work and business operations.

Even documents from the business permit and licensing office and assessor’s office were soaked from the flood.

Classes in all public and private schools may resume today.

Death toll

The death toll from the southwest monsoon stood at 33 as of yesterday.

Twenty-nine of the fatalities were buried alive in separate landslides in Zambales, three drowned and one died of hypothermia.

The lone fatality from Calabarzon was identified as Nonilon Mercado, 29, who drowned in Taysan, Batangas.

National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said seven persons also sustained injuries due to the southwest monsoon.

A total of 150,914 individuals have been affected in Central Luzon, Calabarzon and Metro Manila, according to the NDRRMC.

A majority of the displaced residents – 29,150 – are inside 140 evacuation centers. The remaining 4,875 persons or 1,009 families stayed with their relatives and friends.

Property damage has been pegged at P23.55 million but this could rise as this amount only covered infrastructure in Castillejos and San Antonio in Zambales.

The heavy rains and floods also damaged 65 houses in Central Luzon and Calabarzon, where at least 79 areas were affected.

The NDRRMC said floods have subsided in barangays Bukihan and Batuhan in Famy, barangay Lecheria in Calamba and barangay Bigaa in Cabuyao, all in Laguna.

The government also provided P1.77 million in assistance to affected residents.

P43-M assistance

The United States is providing P43 million in assistance to victims of flooding and landslides in Zambales and Bataan.

The assistance, which includes hygiene kits and water purification supplies, is coursed through the US Agency for International Development (USAID).

“On behalf of the US government and the American people, we extend our deepest condolences and sympathies to those who have lost their loved ones, homes and livelihoods. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of those affected,” Ambassador Harry Thomas Jr. said. (Rick Sapnu, with Pia Lee-Brago, Alexis Romero, Philippine Star)

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2013/09/26/1238289/subic-landslide-areas-declared-permanent-danger-zones

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SBMA rescue team assists habagat victims

SBMA rescue personnel, along with local volunteers, carry the body of a landslide victim in Barangay Balaybay, Castillejos, Zambales after a search and retrieval operation on Tuesday. The SBMA team also participated in the massive rescue effort to free residents trapped in their houses in Olongapo City during heavy flooding brought about by monsoon rains last Monday. (MPD-SBMA)

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Olongapo in full swing to bring back situation to normal after flood

OLONGAPO CITY - The city of Olongapo is now in full swing in clearing out debris, mud and trash and handing out relief good to residents which was affected by the flood that hit the city Monday morning.

Olongapo City Administrator Mamerto Malabute has already instructed the engineering department to clear the main roads of the city and have ordered the distribution of relief good to residents and evacuees who are currently in the evacuation centers.

16 out of the 17 barangay have been affected by the flood Malabute said.

The city council on Monday morning declared a state of calamity in the city.

“I have instructed the city engineer to estimate the damage caused by the flood and clear the main road, schools and public market to bring the city into normal situation,” Malabute said.

Hilda Escobar, a resident of barangay Sta Rita drowned after being swept by heavy current Monday morning.

Gonzalo Pascua, head of the City Social Welfare and Development Office said that more than 600 families have been rescued and brought to different evacuation centers in the city.

Olongapo City Mayor Rolen Paulino said that he would cut his trip short in Virginia Beach, Virginia USA to manage the situation. (PAO Olongapo)

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Olongapo City under state of calamity

The city of Olongapo has been placed under a state of calamity Monday, September 23, as monsoon rains bring widespread floods to the city and in neighboring Subic.

The city government made the declaration as the city continued to be flooded by rain that has been pouring since Sunday evening, September 22.

An unidentified man reportedly drowned, while evacuation is underway for thousands of residents, with authorities fearing more people could be found dead.

Local officials put up ropes across flooded streets so people could hold on to them to keep from being swept away by strong currents, eyewitnesses said.

People there carried their shivering children as they waded through the floodwaters amid submerged cars, an Agence France-Presse reporter at the scene said.

Local publications Subic Bay News and Subic Times posted photos of flooded streets in the city.

Olongapo City Councilor Winnie Ortiz, in a post on Facebook, said the flooding in the city is the highest they have seen in history.

"[The] city council declared [a] state of calamity thru phone. Unanimous decision," Ortiz said in the post.

Ortiz added the city needs help from the national government, as the local rescue teams are being overwhelmed by the flooding with many people asking for help. As early as 3 am, rescue teams had been fanning out, particularly in the hard-hit village of Sta Rita.

Subic Times also said Mayor Rolen Paulino is coordinating with the US Ambassador Harry Thomas for the US Navy, currently in Subic for joint Philippine-US military exercises, to help in rescue and relief in Olongapo.

Paulino, however, is reportedly out of the country, causing anxiety to his constituents.

Classes have earlier been suspended in all levels by the city government. The city is also without electricity.

Subic landslides

Meanwhile, 6 people have been reported killed in landslides in neighboring Subic, radio dzMM reported, quoting Subic Mayor Jefferson Khonghun.

"We've been experiencing very heavy rain. We are now isolated. I can confirm there are two landslide incidents here. Six people were so far killed," Khonghun told Agence France-Presse.

"The flood water is chest-deep in many areas, and the rain is pounding and the water keeps on rising," he said.

It is not clear how many people have been left stranded in the town of 160,000, but one resident reported that "many" people were waiting on rooftops for rescuers.

Government employee Cristina Humbert, 35, said the ground floor of her two-story home had been flooded but she managed to evacuate her 63-year-old mother to higher ground.

"Many are on the rooftops, waiting for help. They are marooned, and are getting hungry and cold. We have no power, no electricity," she told Agence France-Presse.

Khonghun said four rivers that pass through Subic were heavily silted and had overflowed, causing the floods.


He called on the national government to come to the town's aid.

"We are appealing for rescuers, equipment, diggers, we need relief goods. We need help from the national government, please send in inflatable boats," he said.

Local authorities sent rubber boats and fire trucks to pick up residents but there were not enough to cope, Khonghun added. (Rappler.com)

PHOTO:
Vehicles are underwater as flood waters inundate an area in Olongapo City, September 23, 2013. (Photo courtesy Ryan Viduya)

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2,000 volunteers join Subic Bay Freeport coastal clean-up

About 2,000 volunteers consisting of students, workers from locator-companies in this free port, and employees of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) participated in a clean-up activity along the shoreline of Subic Bay on Saturday.

Other volunteers also cleaned up key areas in the different barangays of neighboring Olongapo City under the Shore It Up! International Coastal Clean-up program sponsored by the Metro Pacific Investments Foundation (MPIF).

The clean-up program was part of the International Coastal Clean-up Day, which was locally organized by The Lighthouse Marina Resort, and Ocean Conservancy, a non-profit advocacy group that promoteshealthy and diverse ecosystems.

Prior to the activity, the SBMA signed a memorandum of understanding with MPIF for the Shore It Up! program, agreeing to be partner-organizers for this year’s clean-up.

SBMA Chairman Roberto V. Garcia said that the SBMA supports the activity because it is in line with the Agency's mandate of protecting the environment.

He noted that the SBMA, through its Ecology Center, has initiated similar annual clean-up drives years before partnering with private organizations for a bigger clean-up effort.

“We have followed this up with other measures to protect the vast natural forest and coastline located within the Freeport, particularly with the ‘No Plastic Policy’ to help control pollution of both land and bodies of water here,” Garcia said.

“We hope that this clean-up activity would encourage people not just from the Subic Bay Freeport but also from other areas to commit in protecting Mother Nature,” he added.

For their part, MPIF vice president for corporate communications Melody del Rosario said they are “very happy to have the SBMA as partner” for this activity.

The International Coastal Clean-up Day is an annual event, which began in 1986 through the efforts of former Ocean Conservancy employee Linda Maraniss.

Since then, over 150 countries around the world have joined this activity, which is observed every third Saturday of September. (FMD/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:
Volunteers collect trash and other debris washed ashore at the Subic Bay Freeport during the Shore It Up! International Coastal Clean-up project on Saturday, September 21.

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Emirates’ maiden flight brings bright prospects for Clark, Subic

CLARK FREEPORT — With the arrival of the inaugural flight of Emirates Airlines from Dubai to Clark on October 1, more investors are mulling over of moving into this vibrant free port which was once a former US military facility located some 80 kilometers north of Manila.

Economic indicators show that this free port and Subic, a former US naval base which lies some 50 kilometers west of this free port, are beginning their transformation into world-class business and travel hubs with the overhaul of the Clark International Airport (CIA) in preparation for Emirates Airlines and as the Philippines’ new international gateway.

“The renewed and increased economic activity and the positive future of tourism up north of Metro Manila make investors bullish about investing,” Gigie Baroa, Emirates Philippines country manager, said. This renewed development has also prompted the First Philippine Industrial Park Inc. (FPIP) of the Lopez group of planning to develop industry parks here and in Subic, complementing the rise in investor confidence.

Business indicators also show that industrial parks, offices and residential developments are on the rise, further fueling the area’s potential for economic and tourism development.

The same is true with the upcoming investments and expansion of manufacturing and business-process outsourcing (BPO) firms, which in turn, drive higher demand in the retail market. (Ashley Manabat, Business Mirror)

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Garcia cites employee contributions to SBMA’s much improved performance

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Roberto V. Garcia congratulated employees of the agency on Monday for their contribution in drawing out a much improved performance of the Subic Bay Freeport in the past several months.

In a special flag-raising ceremony here to start the month-long celebration of the 113th anniversary of the Philippine Civil Service, Garcia said that everything is going fine for the Subic agency, thanks in part to the good performance of its employees.

“SBMA is so lucky this year, because we are performing much better than at this time last year,” Garcia said.

He added that in terms of mandated business, the SBMA is also doing well as the Board of Directors has already approved more than $600 million worth of new committed foreign investment this month.

Garcia also announced that Subic’s tourism industry is enjoying increased growth, with the possible holding of the Ad Summit Pilipinas in Subic Bay this year, as well as the planned hosting of the Safeguard 5i50 triathlon here soon.

He also said that with the upcoming meeting of Asia-Pacific Economic Conference (APEC), Subic Bay has also been chosen as among the strategic places to host one of the ministerial meetings where at least 1,000 delegates are expected to attend.

“Subic will be busy this part of the year. So please be with me in maintaining our environment to put SBMA in a status as model for all government agencies,” Garcia urged the employees.

The Civil Service Commission led other government agencies nationwide in marking the civil service day with programs hewing on the theme "Tatak Lingkod Bayani: Isabuhay, Ipagmalaki, Ipagbunyi!"

Here in Subic, Chairman Garcia led employees and officials in reciting the “Panunumpa ng Lingkod Bayan,” while 2012 SBMA employee of the year Marivic Seguiban recited the “Panunumpa ng Kawani ng SBMA.”

In the same ceremony, Garcia also read a message from President Aquino congratulating government employees for being with the administration’s thrust in providing the best public service anchored on transparency and professionalism.

A video-message from CSC Chairman Francisco Duque III also urged government employees to continue serving the public to the best of their best abilities.

As part of the civil service anniversary celebration, the SBMA has also launched several projects to acknowledge the best performance of employees.

These include free shuttle rides in the morning and afternoon, free review classes for employees planning to take the CSC eligibility examination this October, and a free “Zumba” physical fitness program every Friday just before the close of office hours.

“This is our little way of thanking our employees who work hard so that the SBMA meets what the government is expecting from it,” Garcia also said. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:
SBMA Chairman Roberto V. Garcia (extreme right) joins employees in reciting the “Panunumpa ng Kawani ng SBMA” during a simple ceremony held Monday morning as part of the nationwide simultaneous celebration of the 113th anniversary of the Civil Service Commission.

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US Navy vessels in Subic for PHIBLEX 14

Two U.S. Navy vessels carrying around 4,000 American sailors and Marines arrived at this free port on Monday, September 16, to join an upcoming military exercise between the Philippines and the United States.

The U.S. Navy Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD-4) docked at the Alava Pier here alongside the submarine tender USS Emory S. Land, which has been here two weeks ago for a routine port call.

Meanwhile, the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD-18) docked at the Rivera Pier nearby.

The USS Boxer and USS New Orleans, both of the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group (BOXARG), left their home port at San Diego, California, last August 23.

The two vessels are part of the Philippines–US Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX 14), which will officially kick off on Wednesday, September 18.

The USS Boxer and USS New Orleans will stay here until Friday, September 20, while their personnel undertake some community outreach activities in Olongapo City and Zambales.

Subic Bay, which has a sheltered deep harbor and facilities for re-supply and recreation, is a frequent host to US Navy vessels. (FMD/MPD-SBMA)
 
PHOTO:
The US Navy’s amphibious landing ship USS Boxer (left) docks alongside the submarine tender USS Emory S. Land at the Alava Pier after arriving in the Subic Bay Freeport Monday afternoon. It will take part in the Philippines–US Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX 14), scheduled on September 18 to October 11, 2013.

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Bilateral Amphibious Landing Exercise Set to Begin in Philippines

Manila -- Approximately 2,300 U.S. and Philippine service members will meet for three weeks of bilateral air-ground and amphibious training as well as a staff planning exercise during Amphibious Landing Exercise 2014 (PHIBLEX 14) in the Republic of the Philippines Sept. 18 – Oct. 11.

PHIBLEX 14 is designed to improve interoperability, increase readiness and enhance the ability to respond to natural disasters or other regional contingencies. PHIBLEX will also enhance local infrastructure and quality of life and build upon vibrant professional and personal relationships between Philippine and U.S. Marines.

The bilateral Philippine-U.S. Marine Corps training, consisting of a staff planning exercise, field training exercises and humanitarian and civic assistance projects, sustains and reinforces the foundation and framework for a bilateral force to respond rapidly and effectively to regional humanitarian crises.

The staff planning exercise will increase the capability to conduct bilateral maritime security and territorial defense operations. The field training exercises will provide the Philippine and U.S. Marine units an opportunity to maintain their unit skill sets while sharing best practices and enhancing an already high level of interoperability. Additionally, Philippine and U.S. forces will carry out a series of humanitarian and civic assistance projects that will include engineering civic assistance projects, to improve local infrastructure, and cooperative health engagements, to share medical best practices and meet the medical needs of Filipino citizens. (Public Affairs Section, US Embassy)

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Subic EnerZone donates pre-school facility in Olongapo

Subic EnerZone Corporation (SEZ), a listed corporation in this free port, donated on Wednesday a two-room pre-school facility to the Gordon Heights Elementary School (GHES) in Olongapo City.

The donation was made in line with the corporate social responsibility (CSR) program of SEZ and in corroboration with the Aklat, Gabay, Aruga tungo sa Pag-Angat at Pag-Asa (AGAPP) Foundation, said SEZ senior vice president and chief operating officer Dante Pollescas.

AGAPP has committed to build classrooms and libraries in public elementary schools located in depressed or disadvantaged communities, tapping private companies and other foundations for support as part of their corporate social responsibility.

The third project in Olongapo, the “Silid Pangarap” — as all AGAPP buildings are called — comes packaged with chairs, reading and instructional learning materials, audio-visual equipment, power and water supplies.

“This is purely an undertaking of private corporations committed to build classrooms and libraries in public elementary schools to prepare the children in kindergarten for school life and develop their positive attitude towards schooling,” Pollescas said.

Among these corporations are the National Book Store, which donated books; Uratex for chairs and tables; and EnerZone and Aboitiz for power and water supply lines and the buildings.

GHES principal Fernando de Guzman lauded Subic EnerZone and AGAPP for the initiative, saying that the newly constructed facility would address the shortage of classrooms in the school.

“We wanted to assure the donors that we will take care of the building, so that it can be used for generations. This will benefit not only the children, but the teachers and parents as well,” de Guzman said.

In year 2010, AGAPP and the Department of Education (DepEd), through the Bureau of Elementary Education (BEE), have formalized the partnership and launched the School Libraries cum Preschool Classroom project.

The partnership involves the construction of one-storey buildings furnished as school libraries that will also be utilized as kindergarten classrooms with accompanying age-appropriate instructional materials. It will also support teacher training and school staff development with focus on early childhood care and development and family literary.

Meanwhile, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Roberto Garcia commended EnerZone for its undertakings that spread happiness among school children and teachers in Olongapo City.

“The project, indeed, fits together with the thrust of SBMA to help neighboring communities attain parallel development through projects that help enhance the capacities of residents, ” Garcia said.

Earlier this month, the SBMA through its Public Relations Department, donated school chairs, desks, and whiteboards to the Agusuhin Elementary School Annex in Subic, Zambales. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)

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Subic included in 10 Philippine sites short-listed for 2015 Apec meetings

TEN tourism destinations have been short-listed as various meeting sites for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) forum that will be hosted by the Philippines in 2015.

In an interview, Ma. Victoria Jasmin, undersecretary for Tourism Regulation, Coordination and Resource Generation of the Department of Tourism (DOT), said the 10 “preselected” destinations are the National Capital Region, Tagaytay, Cebu, Clark, Subic, Legazpi, Iloilo, Davao, Bacolod and Boracay.

The DOT is a member of the Apec-National Organizing Council (NOC) set up by President Aquino to oversee the activities and programs that will be held under Apec in 2015 and ensure the successful hosting of the event.

Jasmin told the BusinessMirror “there are several meetings spread throughout the year, and I’m pretty sure that each [destination] will get at least one, barring some fortuitous events.”

The Apec summit which that gathers the heads of state of 21 member-economies, will be preceded by other activities throughout 2015, including the Senior Officials Meeting, the Ministerial and Sectoral Ministerial Meetings, as well as meetings of technical working groups that include the support staff for officials participating in the main Apec events.

Jasmin added there has been “no final decision yet” on where the summit would be held.

Separate government sources also said it was clear that the President “doesn’t want to build a separate facility” just for the Apec meetings.

The Philippines hosted the Apec summit in 1996 at the Subic Bay Freeport. Then-President Fidel V. Ramos built 18 Mediterranean-style villas in the so-called Apec Village, specifically for the use of the heads of state in the summit. The villas reportedly cost $50 million and used for only six hours by the Apec leaders.

But visitor arrivals finally crossed the 2-million mark in 1996, ending the year at 2.05 million, up 16 percent from the 1.76 million posted in 1995, indicating the increased attraction of a country as a tourism destination once a major international summit is held there, government sources noted.

The Philippines is targeting foreign arrivals to reach 10 million by 2016, by the time Mr. Aquino steps down from office.

A team from the NOC has been going around these past few months inspecting the 10 pre-selected Apec sites. Government sources said the inspection teams are checking the hotels in each destination, its MICE (meetings, incentives, conferencing and exhibitions) facilities, the local organizing committee headed by the chief executives of the local government units, etc.

“Specifically, they check the availability of [hotel] suites, the quality and number of rooms, as well as the indicative rates, and renovation or upgrade plans,” one source added.

The Apec-NOC was set up by the President through Administrative Order (AO) 36 issued on November 28, 2012. It is chaired by the executive secretary with the secretary of foreign affairs as co-chairman, and composed of the heads of the regular line agencies.

Among the main functions of the Apec-NOC is to “approve and recommend to the President a master plan for the Philippine hosting of Apec in 2015, including an estimated budget for the proper hosting of the Apec meetings,” according to AO 36. (Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo / Special to the BusinessMirror)

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BCDA opens Bailey bridge at segment of SCTEX

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga - Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) today opened a Bailey bridge along the Clark-Porac segment of the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX).

"The bridge will serve as a temporary relief to the damaged segment of the toll road that serves as an approach to the Pasig-Potrero Bridge," BCDA President and CEO Arnel Paciano Casanova said.

Last August 19, the strong current initiated by the Tropical Storm 'Maring'-enhanced Southwest monsoon caused massive erosion of up to 10 hectares of land from the banks of the Pasig-Potrero river which battered that part of the 94-kilometer SCTEX.

The 49-meter long structure, which has a maximum capacity of 25 tons, was built by BCDA and Department of Public Works and Highways in a span of nine days.

It is initially open to Class 1 or light vehicles only.

After stabilization of the support base of the Bailey bridge, it will be open to Class 2 and Class 3 vehicles in the next two weeks.

In the meantime, Class 2 and Class 3 vehicles coming from Manila or Tarlac going to Subic/Tipo, are advised to exit at the Clark South Interchange then take the Clark Friendship-Manibaug Road going to Porac Interchange (to enter SCTEX).

Likewise, Class 2 and Class 3 vehicles from Subic/Tipo going to Tarlac or Manila may exit at Porac Interchange then take the Manibaug-Friendship Road going to Clark South Interchange (to enter SCTEX).

"We recognize the vital role of the SCTEX in the socio-economic growth and development of Central Luzon being the main artery in the delivery of goods and services in the region. That is why the BCDA made sure that the closed segment of the toll road be open to traffic at the least possible time without compromising the safety of the motorists," Casanova said. (CLJD/MJLS-PIA 3)

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US servicemen in beach clean-up

US Navy servicemen from the submarine USS Hampton and submarine tender ship USS Emory Land conduct a beach clean-up project along the Waterfront Road in the Subic Bay Freeport on Monday morning as part of the Navy’s community relations program. Their ships are now docked at Subic’s Alava pier for routine port call. (amd/mpd-sbma)

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Japanese officials visit Subic Freeport

Senior officials in charge of a Japanese prefecture hosting an American military base visited this free port on September 4, meeting with top officials of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) to learn about Subic’s experience in base conversion.

Ichita Yamamoto, Japan’s Minister of State for Okinawa and Northern Territories Affairs, led the delegation that arrived here on Wednesday and called on SBMA chairman Roberto Garcia.

The Japanese official was on a three-day visit to the Philippines to take a look at Subic and Clark, both former U.S. military bases in the country that are considered to be models of bases conversion.

Yamamoto was accompanied in his Subic visit by Motomi Inoue, who is Director-General for Okinawa Affairs; Akio Isomata, a minister from the Japanese Embassy in the Philippines; and Masaru Ikeda, Director for Policy Coordination for Okinawa Affairs.

During the meeting, Yamamoto said that he was impressed with the development of the Subic Bay Freeport from being a U.S. military base into a premier tourism, logistics and investment hub.

Yamamoto said that the insights he gained during the visit would help in their efforts of converting the military bases in Okinawa Prefecture.

He also said that he was surprised to learn how truly skillful and easy to work with Filipino workers were.

Yamamoto also commented that the Freeport’s maritime facilities, particularly the container port terminal, are its strongest asset. However, he said that the Freeport should maximize the terminal’s full potential.

Yamamoto then commended Garcia for his leadership, stating that strong leadership is necessary for strong development.

Garcia, for his part, thanked Yamamoto for visiting the free port and informed the visitors that the SBMA is working on increasing Subic’s port terminal’s operations.

When asked about the Subic’s advantage over other special economic zones in the country, Garcia told the Japanese delegates that Subic is the first free port in the country and has 20 years of experience as compared to the other special economic zones.

Garcia also said that the Subic Bay Freeport hosts a thriving shipbuilding and dry-docking industry, making the Philippines the fourth largest shipbuilder in the world. (FMD/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:
Japanese minister Ichita Yamamoto (left) receives a briefing from SBMA Chairman Roberto V. Garcia following his arrival at the Subic Bay Freeport. Yamamoto, who is Japan’s Minister of State for Okinawa and Northern Territories Affairs, visited former U.S. military bases in the Philippines to learn about their conversion to economic zones.

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Fitness festival set

THE SUBIC Fitness Festival will be held on Nov. 15, 16, and 17 at Subic Free Port Zone Harbor Point, Camayan Beach and Ocean Adventure.

The festival starts its journey to Subic with free fitness sessions in Manila on all weekends of September and October.

Organized by F&F Events, alongside Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), the festival aims to promote a holistic approach to fitness amongst Filipinos.

Kicking off at the FTX gym along Tordesillas St., Makati on Sept. 6, 7 and 8, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., the series of events will feature all the fitness disciplines headed to the main gathering.

Reijo Maranan del Prado, 2008 Mr. Philippines title holder, challenges fitness buffs to break records through functional body weight and resistance training with Circuit Warz today (Sept. 6).

Learn the preparations involved to qualify in the Gladiator Circuit Battle, Extreme EnduroChallenge, Strong Man Competition and TugofWar.

The free circuit training is open to individuals and circuit teams alike, featuring speedrepetition, speedendurance and powerweight exercises.

Dance the workweek stress away on Sept. 7 with Urban Street Dance. Shed starched shirts for basic tees and move to your favorite groove for a funfilled, highenergy, cardiovascular workout.

Bring your family, round up your friends, and let the SFF crew teach you how to stay insync anywhere and everywhere.

Sunday is a treat for the spirit as International Metacoach, Imee Navarro, teach individuals how to unleash their greatest potentials. On Sept. 8, learn to express your power with neurolinguistic programming, selfcontemplation, and meditation techniques.

Move within your mind and experience results physically and mentally through the guidance of EQ Academy with Soul Fitness.

For more information, contact Ramon Domiquil at 09159425926. (BusinessWorld)

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Olongapo Medical Society, SBMA conduct feeding project

The Olongapo City Medical Society (OCMS), together with the Public Relations Department of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA-PRD, has conducted a feeding project recently for Ayta children in an upland community of Olongapo City.

The feeding project benefited Grade 1 students at the Iram Elementary School in Barangay New Cabalan.

Iram, a small community comprised mostly of indigenous Ayta families, is one of the adopted communities of SBMA under the agency’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) program.

The feeding project was part of the OCMS nutrition program, which began last July as part of the celebration of the Nutrition Month.

Members of the OCMS and SBMA team that visited Iram also conducted story-telling sessions with the pupils and taught them about proper waste segregation.

The group also donated trash bins to the school.

According to Dr. Evelyn Natividad, one of the members of OCMS who facilitated the feeding program, the project will continue until December to monitor the progress of the children’s weight gain.

Natividad also said that apart from the monthly feeding program, the OCMS will also conduct child advocacy programs such as values education and proper hygiene training.

They are also planning to conduct campaigns against drug abuse, smoking and alcohol use among high school students.

Natividad also said her group has distributed hygiene kits to the pupils after conducting hygiene training last month.

“Next month, we are planning to conduct livelihood training for the kids’ parents so that they can have other sources of income,” Natividad added. (FMD/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:
Members of the Olongapo City Medical Society (OCMS), assisted by the SBMA Public Relations Department, teach proper nutrition to Ayta children at Iram Elementary School in Olongapo City.

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SBMA leads relief operations in communities affected by typhoon “Maring”

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), in cooperation with various locators, continues to distribute relief goods to displaced and indigent families affected by Typhoon “Maring” and heavy rains from the southwest monsoon or “habagat.”

SBMA Chairman Roberto Garcia said the distribution of relief goods is part of the corporate social responsibility (CSR) of the agency to help neighboring communities of the Freeport, especially in times of emergency.

Garcia said that through the agency’s Public Relations Department, thousands of bags of relief goods were distributed among residents of Olongapo City and the municipalities of Dinalupihan and Hermosa in Bataan, which were severely affected by Typhoon Maring.

“We are very grateful for the help and support coming from the business locators in the Subic Freeport, as well as workers, and cause-oriented organizations and individuals, who sent their donations of clothing and food items so that we would have something to give our neighbors who lost so much during the recent calamity,” Garcia said.

Meanwhile, RP Energy Inc., a locator in the Subic Bay Freeport, had distributed more than 2,000 bags of relief goods and hygiene kits in Olongapo City, and the municipalities of Subic, Castillejos and Iba in Zambales.

The relief bags contained five kilos of rice, canned goods, cookies, noodles, candies, and bottled water that evacuees who fled their homes needed most.

In an Aeta tribal community at Sitio Bagong Silang, Barangay San Pablo in Castillejos, RP Energy’s relief operations got a warm reception Mayor Jose Angelo Dominguez, who assisted in the distribution of goods to some 180 families who were relocated from flood-prone areas.

“It is good to see that companies like SBMA and RP Energy reach this isolated area to send a message to our minority brothers and sisters that they are being cared for,” said Dominguez.

RPE CSR officer Vic Chan, who personally supervised the relief operations, said that the company has always been giving priority to the welfare of the communities affected by calamities. RP Energy is a consortium of companies which proposes to build a coal-fired power plant at Subic’s Redondo Peninsula.


Chan said that although the company is not yet starting its construction phase, “the commitment to help those affected by floodings and whose livelihood was disrupted by calamity must be done immediately without delay.”

RP Energy received an award for its CSR program “Katuwang Natin Sa Buhay” in the recently held 48th Anvil awards in the category of public relations program focused on community development. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:
Soldiers from the Philippine Army’s 24th Infantry Battalion gather food packs donated by RP Energy for distribution to flood victims during relief operations at Barangay Mangan-Vaca in Subic, Zambales recently. The relief drive is a joint undertaking of the Tambuli Lions Club and RP Energy, with the assistance of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority’s Public Relations Department.

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Olongapo starts dredging river

The local government of Olongapo has started dredging part of its river channel in an effort to alleviate continues flooding in the city.

Mayor Rolen Paulino said that B&B construction, a private contractor provided heavy equipment’s for free to the city, which is currently being used together with the city’s dredging machine.

The dredging along Banicain river which separate Subic Bay Freeport and the city started last week but was put on hold due to Tropical Storm Maring.

Olongapo suffered heavy flooding during “Maring’s” none stop rain. Paulino explained that it would take more than one month to finish dredging Banicain River which covers the whole perimeter channel after which it would transferred to another river channel.

“All the contractor asked for is the sand that would be dredge from the river, which they would use as part of their construction materials,” Paulino said. He explained that the dredging would not prevent flood in the future but would lessen it.

“Kung dati yung ibang part ng city ay hangang bewang ang baha baka pag natapos ang dredging ay hanggang tuhod na lang.” Paulino added.

“The city will save a lot with this move, because if we alone shoulder the dredging expense it would cost us millions and that will hurt us a lot, considering that the city is in the process of paying its billions peso debt from PSALM” he explained.

Last month a locator inside Subic Bay Freeport also proposed to dredge the river channel of Olongapo for free, but it has yet to materialize. (Pao/ 08292013)

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GEARCON showcases Subic Bay as digital entertainment haven

With the participation of some 5,000 video game enthusiasts, a convention for gamers and cosplayers was held last week at the Harbor Point, showcasing this premier Freeport's potential as a haven for digital entertainment.

Dubbed as GEARCON 2013 and organized by GEAR, a local gaming community, the convention was a full gaming, e-sport and consumer electronics expo, which targeted both gamers and non-gamers here and elsewhere.

Marlo Zerrudo, officer in charge of the SBMA Information Technology Department, said that the event demonstrated that Subic Bay Freeport could easily be a venue for international gaming competitions.

He added that the gaming community in Olongapo and other nearby areas is quite a large market for digital entertainment.

“This is the first gaming convention of its kind in the Philippines, and we hope to follow this up with another,” Zerrudo said.

The major feature of the week-long event was a hands-on demonstration of all the current generation consoles (PS3, Xbox, WiiU). Participants, both professed gamers and non-gamers, got the chance to try out for themselves the latest innovation in gaming technology, including three-dimensional and aided and unaided motion-detection gaming.

An exhibit showcasing various consoles from the first (1972-1977) to the eighth generation (2012-current) was also put in place at the event venue.

Also part of the convention were competitions on Defense of the Ancients (DOTA), Tekken Tag Tournament Two, Magic the Gathering, and the Wii and Xbox dance contests.

Over P100,000 worth of prizes were awarded to competition winners and lucky participants who participated in the raffle draw.

According to the organizers, the goal of the event was "to celebrate the advancements in technology that has had a widespread ripple effect in our daily lives.”

“With the advent of high-speed internet connectivity, gaming has evolved from a solitary activity to massive multi-player games played across continents by millions of people. Once the exclusive domain of video-gamers, virtual simulation is now a crucial component in various professions. It has also established itself as a veritable medium for health and fitness,” a statement from GEAR also indicated.

The organizers added that "this gaming convention is dedicated not only to the gamers of today's generation, but also older gamers who used to play on the various Atari, Nintendo and Sega consoles, as well as handhelds during the eighties and nineties." (HEE/MPD-SBMA)

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Subic Sea Lion Gives Birth

After the heartbreaking death of a baby dolphin, Subic marine park Ocean Adventure sea lion star Brandy gave birth to her second baby last Aug. 18.

This is the eighth pup born in the successful sea lion breeding program of the marine theme park. According to a park statement, the birth is "proof indeed of Ocean Adventure's ongoing commitment to the highest quality of care and welfare for their animals."

Weighing approximately 6 kilograms at birth, Brandy's baby pup was vocalizing with her within minutes, a sign of acknowledgement from the mother.

"In the wild, sea lion pups are born at the same time every year beaches filled with hundreds of sea lions," the statement confirmed. It added that moms and babies find one another by recognizing each others' unique vocalizations.

The pup was successfully nursing from the mother within hours from birth, and will continue to do so for the next seven to eight months of its childhood.

"In a few months she will begin to play with fish, eating small pieces in the process, until she is eating whole fish by about six months old," the statement said.

"This heartwarming pair is special because Brandy was diagnosed with bilateral mature cataracts four years ago. Although nearly blind, she is doing a remarkable job of caring for her second pup and the bond between mother and daughter is strong," a park official stated.

Because Brandy enjoys "working," she is a well known star of the environmentally-themed Sea Lion Marine Patrol show. She will be taking a long break from her starring role to enjoy motherhood and introduce her pup to the rest of the sea lion group in the near future.

Ocean Adventure's sea lions play a major role in the park's advocacy of environmental protection and species conservation.

"While we recover from the recent calamity brought about by typhoon "Maring" and the Habagat, Brandy and her pup is a reminder to us all to take an active role in caring for the environment," the official added.

Ocean Adventure is an advocate for action. All the shows and exhibits are designed to enlighten and empower the public through highly educational and quality entertainment products. (Jonas Reyes, Manila Bulletin)

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SCTEX portion damaged by heavy rains

A section of the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) south-bound lane has been closed following the damage of a section of the road in Porac, Pampanga.

According to a statement released by the Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA), the owner of the SCTEX, heavy rainfall in the past few days caused strong currents in the Pasig Portrero River which eroded part of the road's embankment.

"A section of SCTEX from Clark South going to Porac has been closed as a result to ensure the safety of motorists," the statement said.

The BCDA added that rerouting of traffic flow to and from Subic and surrounding towns is ongoing. A "technical assessment" of the damaged portion is also ongoing.

However, the SCTEX Clark-Tarlac section is still open to vehicular traffic, the BCDA said.

The total cost of the construction of the SCTEX is P34.9 billion with 78% of the cost funded by a loan from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). (ANC)

PHOTO:
A portion of SCTEX damaged by floods. This is around 30km away from Dinalupihan, Bataan.

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SBMA To Augment Harbor Patrol

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) plans to augment its harbor patrol by adding four new patrol boats to its security fleet.

This was bared by SBMA Chairman Robert Garcia in a recent interview, adding that the agency will also be repairing two patrol boats. He added that the SBMA wants to ensure the security of Subic Bay’s shorelines.

“We have already asked Malacañan to provide us with the proper funding for our new patrol boats. We are still waiting for their nod,” Garcia said.

The statement came amidst the drug bust that happened recently in the town of Subic which resulted in the seizure of P2 billion worth of methamphetamine hydrochloride or “shabu.”


Garcia said the agency is not claiming the honor of busting the drug syndicate but only said that it assisted the police. “We helped in staking out the syndicate,” he said.


Garcia reiterated that allegations made by Subic Mayor Jefferson Khonghun that the drugs passed through Subic Bay Freeport is unfounded, since the drugs might have come from foreign vessels and then possibly ferried via motorized bancas.

“The shoreline of Subic town is long (sic), motorized bancas could land anywhere in Subic town,” Garcia said.

“We have been adamant in keeping smuggling off of Subic Freeport. Items such as rice, oil and other smuggled items have been nil since we helped bust the biggest rice smuggling operation in the country,” Garcia said.

As for the SBMA officials who are connected in the drug operations, Garcia was mum on the subject. (Jonas Reyes, Manila Bulletin)

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Mali to Subic and back

HOLLYWOOD actress Pam Anderson, Paul McCartney and even Mayor Joseph Estrada cannot deny Mali a permanent home in the capital, said Manila C­ouncilor Don Juan Bagatsing.

While moving the pachyderm to a second country is discounted, he said no final deal has been made either to have the mammal transferred to Subic Freeport.

But Bagatsing, tourism committee chairman, said his sponsored resolution has been unanimously passed on “an ironclad public assurance” that the 39-year old elephant, should be returned safely to Manila Zoo immediately after its rehabilitation and modernization.

“Manila should take all necessary actions to ensure the elephant’s proper transport to the Subic facility, her suitable integration and assimilation unto new surroundings, and, more significantly, her definitive homecoming, back to her newly enhanced home in a much better Manila Zoo,” he said.

“We support, wholeheartedly, our President-Mayor’s recent pronouncements on Mali, especially in rejecting calls demanding for her lifelong relocation to a foreign habitat abroad,” he said.

“Nothing yet is set-in-stone as there remains much to be threshed and

fine-tuned on the supposed arrangement with the Subic-based park.”

Bagatsing said the city council has been left in the dark.

“No one from the Zoomanity-Zoobic Group has briefed the City Council, as well as the local Public Recreations Bureau,” Bagatsing wondered.

Zoobic Safari president Albert Yupangco asked city hall to allow his company to have Mali in its 50-hectare theme park in Subic Bay freeport.

Yupangco said the park was suitable to the elephant brought into the county at age three in 1977 from Sri Lanka as a gift to then First Lady and now Rep. Imelda Romualdez Marcos.

At the time, Bagatsing’s father, the late Mayor Ramon Bagatsing, sheltered the country’s only elephant, Vishwa Maali, her full name, at the city zoo.

“Amidst ruthless badgering of hard-line animal groups with super-celebrities, the Mayor of the City of Manila, His Excellency Joseph Ejercito Estrada, repeatedly has stood firm to keep the elephant permanently in the Manila Zoo,” Bagatsing said. (Macon Ramos-Araneta, Manila Standard Today)

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Business first for Subic – SBMA (US Military Presence Must Have Parameters)

Despite the impending utilization of this premier Freeport by US and Japanese military forces, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Robert Garcia said that it should first function what it was mandated for, a special economic zone.

This was bared recently during an interview with Garcia, adding that the deal should first comply with three parameters before taking into full effect, that is if it in line with the Constitution, with the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), and with Subic Bay Freeport as an economic zone.

Garcia said that they need to balance the military presence while upholding Republic Act 7227, the Bases Conversion and Development Act of 1992. But Garcia also acknowledged the issue of national security and that the SBMA answers to the national government.

“How can you say no to the President? The agency answers to the national government, and if the national government says the military presence here is for our security concerns, who are we to question them?” Garcia explained.

One of the areas, the Alava Pier, will only be used by military vessels. Commercial wharves of the Subic Bay Freeport will not be affected by the military operations conducted by the country and its foreign allies.

He pointed out that it will still be business as usual for the other ports. Garcia also said that Alava Pier will only be used for supply replenishment, ship repair and docking but will not be used for deployment.

“We are in a difficult financial position, with that, we will ask for the lease and rental be paid. President Aquino also said that we should ask the US government for funding to repair the ageing Alava Pier since they will be the one who will use it more often,” Garcia said.

Aside from the usual places like the airport and wharves, the SBMA chief still doesn’t know which facilities the military will be using. “It will be up to them, but rest assured that Subic Freeport will stay true to its mandate,” Garcia said.

The SBMA is the operating and implementing arm of the Government of the Philippines for the development of the 262 square mile (670 square kilometer) area of Subic Bay Freeport into a self-sustaining tourism, industrial, commercial, financial, and investment center to generate employment opportunities. This area was the former US Naval facility in Subic Bay.

On March 13, 1992, the Philippine Congress passed Republic Act 7227, known as the Bases Conversion and Development Act of 1992, in anticipation of the pullout of the US military bases in the country.

Section 13 of RA 7227 created the SBMA to develop and manage the Freeport which provides tax and duty-free privileges and incentives to business locators in the special economic zone.

To date, Subic Bay Freeport has around 90,000 employees with close to 1,200 companies who are investing and banking on Filipino skills. Touted as the economic flagship of the country, Subic Freeport was once the biggest earning economic zone in the country.(Jonas Reyes, Manila Bulletin)

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Asian Challenge triathlon set

The Philippines will host the third Asian Challenge Triathlon on Feb. 22 next year in Subic Bay and Bataan featuring crack triathletes from 20 countries.

Taking place in the pristine protected waters of Subic Bay’s IIanin Bay and its rolling hills and costal jungle forests of Subic Bay and Bataan, the half distance has become a must-do for triathletes who want to experience one of the most beautiful and iconic tri courses in Asia with the theme: “Challenge Yourself, Race for a Cause”.

The competition will be the climax of a week-long celebration of lifestyle, cultural and community engagements and sports for the entire family celebrating the Pinoy Spirit and the beautiful traditions of the Philippines.

Subic Bay and Bataan are recognized throughout the country as the active lifestyle destination of Philippines known for enchanting and challenging terrain and magnificence costal vistas and low laying deep terrocarp triple canopy rainforest has long been a place where the country’s best athletes come to train, race and relax.

The event reflects the efforts by Challenge Philippines Endurance Entertainment Asia (EEA) to deliver the best all around event experiences to the athletes and the Subic Bay, and Bataan and Zambales stakeholders.

“We deliberately looked on how to bring an iconic Challenge Philippines event to the area with the best economic impacts, but without the negative effects of closed city central roads or extra traffic,” said organizer Dave Voth.

“We are very pleased to have the very distinguished global event Challenge Philippines come to Subic Bayand feature our Freeport and former historic Naval Magazine area,” said Voth an American living in Angeles City with Filipina wife and two sons.

The event is in partnership with Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, Subic Bay Freeport Zone and sanctioned by Triathlon Association of the Philippines. (Clyde Mariano, Tempo)

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Japan minister to visit former US bases in Subic, Clark

MANILA, Philippines - A Japanese minister under Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's second Cabinet is set to visit former American military facilities in Clark Air Base and Subic Bay Naval base in September.

Ichita Yamamoto, Japan's Minister of State for Okinawa and Northern Territories Affairs, will inspect how the bases in Pampanga and Zambales have been successfully converted into civilian areas and commercial zones, Kyodo News reported Wednesday,

Yamamoto will reportedly use the Philippines' experience from Subic and Clark's development for Japan's own conversion of military bases within Okinawa Prefecture.

Okinawa, the poorest prefecture in Japan, has hosted US presence since 1972 but locals recently withdrew support for the American troops in the area. Residents have also blamed Tokyo for what is perceived as its lack of commitment in removing the bases.

Yamamoto's pending visit, meanwhile, is said to be be a key move in easing the tension between the local community and the government, which has vowed to demilitarize Okinawa.

US forces in the Philippines' bases, meanwhile, left in 1991 after the Senate rejected a renewal of a treaty to extend the US military's lease of the bases.

President Benigno Aquino III revived talks to allow the renewed presence of American troops in the Philippines amid China's incursions in Philippine-claimed territories in the West Philippine Sea.(Camille Diola, Philstar.com)

PHOTO:
Japanese Minister of State Ichita Yamamoto (left) wants to learn from the Philippines' experience in converting Naval Station Subic Base, a former US military base. (OIST JAPAN PHOTO/WIKICOMMONS)

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SBMA clears misinformation about Subic Freeport and P2-B drug bust

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Roberto Garcia yesterday shed light on erroneous reports about the seizure of some 400 kilograms of shabu in this free port.

Newspaper reports dated August 12 indicated that anti-narcotics operatives of the Philippine National Police (PNP) after a five-month surveillance arrested six suspects and seized of 400 kilos of shabu worth P2-B at the Sta. Monica Subdivision in Subic, Zambales.

Some accounts, however, placed the location of the drug bust as either the Subic Bay Freeport or the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, instead of the municipality of Subic in Zambales.

“I just want to make it clear, once and for all, because it has become a common mistake that Subic Bay Freeport and Subic, Zambales are one and the same. Well, they are not,” stressed Garcia in a statement..

‘Subic Bay Freeport is a 670-square kilometer area, which is formerly the .US. Naval Base, Subic Bay. By virtue of the Republic Act 7227, it is now being managed and developed by the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority into a self-sustaining growth center,” he added.

“Subic, Zambales, on the other hand, is one of the 13 municipalities of the province of Zambales, and one of the eight communities adjacent to the Subic Bay Freeport,” he continued.

In the case of the seizure of P2-billion shabu on August 11,Garcia emphasized that this happened at Sta. Monica Subdivision, which is located in the municipality of Subic, Zambales, and not in the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, nor in the Subic Bay Freeport.

A report also mentioned the Subic Bay Freeport as a haven for drug smugglers, referring to the drug smuggling attempt here at the Subic Bay Freeport sometime in 2011.

Garcia likewise clarified that that smuggling attempt made news “precisely because it was foiled by the SBMA Law Enforcement Department, in cooperation with other agencies.”

According to Garcia, the SBMA and the Bureau of Customs (BOC) have long been in close coordination to curb smuggling in the Port of Subic, which is in the Subic Bay Freeport.

Moreover, he gave the assurance that under his term, the SBMA will not allow smugglers to do any “monkey business” in the Subic Bay Freeport. (RFD/MPD-SBMA)

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