New PRC facility validates Subic’s importance as logistics hub

The establishment by the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) of its logistics and training center in the Subic Bay Freeport has once again validated the importance of this free port as a domestic and international logistics hub.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Roberto Garcia pointed this out after the PRC formally inaugurated on Monday its logistics and training center at a 1.6-hectare property along the Corregidor Highway in the former Naval Magazine area here.

“Accessibility is the main factor here, and of course there is also the security aspect to it. It is just a few hours away from Manila; it is accessible by land, sea and air, and the place is as secure as it can get. That’s why the Red Cross is here,” Garcia said.

Garcia said the SBMA has allowed the PRC rent-free use of the property for 50 years.

“It’s our humble contribution to the noble mission that the Philippine Red Cross has been doing remarkably well,” he added.

PRC Chairman Richard J. Gordon, who led the inauguration ceremony on Monday, said the PRC’s Subic facility will serve as a hub for logistics support in local and international disaster response, as well as a training facility and operations center.

“We will preposition relief supplies here, both food and non-food items; also our equipment and our vehicles to facilitate prompt and efficient deployment in case of disasters, emergencies or mass casualty incidents,” Gordon said.

“We also conduct different trainings here (because) in a country with a buffet of disasters like the Philippines, we should always be prepared,” he added.

“(The facility) is also part of our tenet: Volunteers + Logistics + Information Technology = a Red Cross that is Always First, Always Ready, Always There,” Gordon also said.

The PRC facility has two warehouses, a function room that also serves as convention center, two dormitory buildings, two classrooms, and a mess hall. It will soon have a hotel and trade school.

The facility, which had its soft opening last March, has already produced its first batch of graduates for the Emergency Medical Technician and Emergency Filed Hospital courses.

During the inaugural rites, Gordon also presented Garcia a citation for the support that SBMA has extended to the PRC.

He also presented a similar award to the seven-man contingent of fire and rescue volunteers led by SBMA Fire Chief Ranny Magno, which participated in a recent rescue and relief mission in earthquake-devastated Nepal. (HEE/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTOS:

[1] SBMA Chairman Roberto V. Garcia (center) joins PRC Chairman Richard J. Gordon and members of the PRC Board of Governors inaugurating the Philippine Red Cross Logistics and Training Center in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone. The facility, which sits on a 1.6-hectare property at Subic’s Ilanin Forest, will serve as a hub of logistics support in local and international disaster response. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

[2] SBMA Chairman Roberto V. Garcia receives a citation from PRC Chairman Richard J. Gordon and members of the PRC Board of Governors, in recognition of SBMA support of the establishment of the Philippine Red Cross Logistics and Training Center in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone. The facility, which will serve as a hub of logistics support in local and international disaster response, is located at a 1.6-hectare property that the SBMA has given for a fifty-year rent-free lease. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

[3] SBMA Chairman Roberto V. Garcia (center) joins awardees after receiving a citation from the PRC Board of Governors for SBMA support in the establishment of the Philippine Red Cross Logistics and Training Center in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone. Among the other awardees are members of the SBMA Fire and Rescue Team, which participated in a recent rescue and relief mission in earthquake-devastated Nepal. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

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Subic Bay Asian ParaTriathlon set

IN line with its mandate to develop high-caliber and more competitive national triathlon teams, the Triathlon Association of the Philippines (TRAP) will be organizing the ASTC Asian ParaTriathlon Championships (APC) 2015 on August 16 at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone as well as the Philippine National Triathlon Trials (NTT) in Iloilo City on August 22.

For the APC, a record field of around thirty participants from Japan, Malaysia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Korea and the Philippines will engage in the competition for the much needed qualifying points for the 2016 Rio Paralympics. At the same time there will be a regular triathlon sprint distance races for elite (mixed relay) and age-groupers at Dungaree Beach in Subic Bay.

More notably the August 16 event sponsored by Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Tourism Department, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) ASTC, Asian Centre for Insulation Philippines, Gatorade, SPEEDO, Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), Standard Insurance, DZSR Sports Radio 918, Channel 4’s TeleDyaryo Program, RaceDay, SBR.ph, Kikay Runner and PinoyFitness.com was officially recognized by the Asian Paralympic Committee.

Meanwhile, the Philippine National Triathlon Trials hosted by Iloilo City headed by Mayor Jed Patrick E. Mabilog will give triathletes from the Visayas region a chance to test their skills and try to qualify for the developmental pool as TRAP continues its search for new talents to represent the country. The event supports the local campaign on strengthening awareness and encouraging the public to support the ongoing Iloilo River Clean-Up Project.

The approved race courses for both Standard (1.5Km swim-40Km bike-10Km run) and Sprint (750M swim-20Km bike-6Km run) distances will start at the beach at Joe II Garden for the swim followed by cycling along the city’s thoroughfares and running using Benigno Aquino Avenue going to Esplanade.

At stake for Standard Distance Top 3 men and Top 3 women finishers are cash prizes of P10,000, P6,000 and P4,000. Medals and product prizes will be given to all Top 3 winners in other categories including the Relay category. Inquiries are accepted by the TRAP at 710-8259, 399-6598, 0915-6394233, 0916-5046513 and at email rreyes_upm@yahoo.com. (People's Tonight)

http://www.journal.com.ph/sports/other-sports/subic-bay-asian-paratriathlon-set

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RP Energy turns over ‘Unang Hakbang’ Learning Center

Redondo Peninsula Energy, Incorporated (RP Energy) has turned over a unit of its pre-school Unang Hakbang Learning Center project in Castillejos, Zambales as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) program in neighboring communities.

RP Energy CSR head Victor Persius Chan formally turned over the facility to the Balaybay Day Care Center V last Friday in the presence of Mayor Jose Angelo Dominguez, social welfare officer Josefina Fabulayan, Barangay Balaybay chairman Arturo Manzano, and Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) public relations manager Armie Llamas.

RP Energy, a consortium composed of Manila Electric Co., Aboitiz Power, and Taiwan Cogeneration Corp., is set to build a 600-megawatt coal-fired power plant at the Redondo Peninsula in Barangay Cawag, Subic, Zambales, which is a part of the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

The new center is equipped with children’s books, toys and other playing materials, ventilators, television set and sound system, new tables and chairs, and an outdoor play pen. RP Energy promised a supply of toys and other learning materials for one year.

Chan explained that the former day care center in Balaybay was already dilapidated, and many of its teaching materials and electric fans missing.

“Early years in school are critical in establishing a good foundation for higher learning,” said Chan. “That is why we have to make sure that the five-year old kids and younger would have an enjoyable time studying in day care centers,” he added.

Mayor Dominguez lauded RP Energy for the project. “Tama ang ating motto na ‘Kayang-Kaya, Basta Sama-Sama.’ Sa tulong ng RP Energy at mga magulang na nagboluntaryong magkarpintero ay naitayo ang center na ito,” he said.

Dominguez added that the “play while you learn” concept of Unang Hakbang Learning Center can be more effective because children will be encouraged more to come to school.

“There are lots of toys and learning activities that will make their stay in the school enjoyable,” he said.

Chan said the Unang Hakbang Learning Centers are part of RP Energy’s CSR project, which aims to provide a more conducive learning environment to pre-elementary students.

RPE CSR team officer Jason Gavina also said that more Unang Hakbang Learning Centers might be established in the town if the center in Balaybay proves to be successful.

Six more Unang Hakbang Learning Centers are also scheduled for turnover in Olongapo City and in Subic, Zambales. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTOS:
[1] Day care students listen intently to an RP Energy volunteer, as she tells a story during the ceremonial turnover of the Unang Hakbang Learning Center in Barangay Balaybay, Castillejos, Zambales. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

[2] RP Energy officials led by CSR Manager Victor Persius Chan (center) join Casillejos Mayor Jose Angelo Dominguez and village officials and students during the ceremonial turnover of an Unang Hakbang Learning Center in Barangay Balaybay, Castillejos, Zambales. Also in photo is SBMA PR Manager Armina Llamas (2nd from right). (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

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USS Lassen drops anchor in Subic Bay

The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Lassen (DDG 82) arrived Wednesday (July 1) in Subic Bay for a port visit.

Prior to its arrival here, Lassen's crew of 320 Sailors, including members of the 'Warlords' of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 51, conducted presence patrols in the South China Sea and in waters around the Philippine Islands.

During the port visit, Lassen's crew will have the opportunity to interact with local citizens, experience Philippine culture, give back to the local community through several community relation projects and enjoy the natural splendor of the surrounding land and seascapes.

With all the natural beauty the Philippines has to offer, I am honored and excited to bring Lassen back to Subic Bay,” said Cmdr. Robert Francis, Lassen's commanding officer. “For many of our Sailors, this is a real treat to be coming back to such a beautiful country. I could not ask for a more exciting and culture-rich port to visit.”

U.S. Navy port visits not only improve the quality of life for Sailors, but also play an important role in promoting peace and stability by strengthening relationships between the U.S. and the Philippines.

Lassen, one of seven destroyers assigned to Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, is currently on patrol in the 7th Fleet area of responsibility in support of security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. (USS Lassen Public Affairs)

PHOTO:
The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Lassen. 

http://right.is/military/2015/07/uss-lassen-to-experience-philippine-culture-2526.html

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PCCI urges PNoy to prioritize the expansion of Subic, Batangas ports

The business community hopes President Aquino will finally put to rest the port congestion issue by making a priority the expansion of Subic and Batangas international ports before his term ends next year.

Alfredo M. Yao, President of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, (PCCI) said the resolution of the port congestion at the Manila ports tops its wish list of priority issues that they want President Aquino to make a policy statement during his last State of the Nation Address this month.

“The port operation has improved a lot but sooner or later we will be hounded again by port congestion,” said Yao. Trade volume is expected to pick at the start of the second semester and with the robust economic growth, Yao expects congestion to be back again this year.

The port congestion that hit the Manila port last year has caused considerable damage to businesses in the country and potential economic potentials.

Yao stressed that the port congestion is a vicious cycle that come again and again if it is not addressed.

Yao would like the government to have the will to push for the expansion of the Batangas International Port, which is being operated by the Asian Terminals Inc.

If the capacity of the port is expanded all import and export cargo volume from and into the south should use the Batangas port rather than going to the Manila port and subject themselves to the burgeoning traffic of the city.

Expansion of the Subic ports, where the International Container Terminal Services Inc. has existing operations, need to be further enhanced.

It should be easier though to expand Subic because the Subic Bay Metroplitan Authority, which runs Subic freeport, is a government agency.

Subic port should be the main port for businesses operating in the northern part of Luzon, Yao stressed.

“At present, we are all relying on Manila ports and that is so inefficient,” he added.

“Government should come in and exercise its political will,” said Yao.

Aside from the port congestion issue, the PCCI also hopes the President to push for the enactment into law the long overdue Customs and Tariff Modernization Act among other priority bills pending in Congress. (Bernie Magkilat, Manila Bulletin)

http://www.mb.com.ph/pcci-urges-pnoy-to-prioritize-the-expansion-of-subic-batangas-ports/

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Subic Bay tops CL destinations for 2 consecutive years

For two successive years, Subic Bay Freeport maintained its lead as the No. 1 tourist destination in the entire Central Luzon region, as visitor arrivals here breached the one-million mark in 2013 and 2014.

In a plaque from the Department of Tourism (DOT)-Region III, the Freeport was cited for having “consistently topped the list of most visited places in the region for two consecutive years.”

According to DOT regional director Ronaldo Tiotuico, Subic “obtained the highest number of regional travellers – both local and foreign – in the entire Central Luzon region from CY 2013-2014 based on reports submitted by accommodation establishments in all the seven (7) provinces and two (2) special economic zones in the region.”

“We are very much elated by this development. It speaks well not only of the efforts of our Tourism team and the rest of our agency, but also of the support and cooperation of our tourism stakeholders and the entire Freeport community,” Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority chairman and administrator Roberto Garcia said.

Garcia added that aside from being the No. 1 destination in the region, Subic has continued to live up to its title as “Premier Convention Capital of Central Luzon”, which was bestowed by the DOT in 2012.

“The number of conventions here has grown by 150 per cent from 2013 to 2014, with a corresponding increase of 94 per cent in the number of participants for the same period,” he pointed out.

Subic also enjoyed the highest hotel occupancy rate in Central Luzon at 69 per cent last year, compared to the regional average of 62 per cent. Equally notable is the Freeport’s sustained growth as the country’s triathlon, sailing and theme park capital. (KMF/CorComm-SBMA)

PHOTO CAPTION
Subic Freeport - The No. 1 Destination in CL.
Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority chairman and administrator Roberto Garcia, with SBMA tourism manager Jem Camba, displays the citation recently received from DOT Region 3, recognizing Subic as the top destination in the entire Central Luzon region for two consecutive years. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

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WATCH: 'Ligers' and 'Tiglons' at Zoobic Safari

This most visited tourist destination in Central Luzon will likely capture more curious visitors and animal lovers with the arrival here of four specimens of two "new” breeds of big cats, the so-called “ligers” and “tiglons.”

View @ SBMA's official Youtube channel : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9gaM5R55FnY

Read More: http://subicnewslink.blogspot.com/2015/06/exotic-breeds-of-big-cats-are-subic.html

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Subic Bay stakeholders plant trees to celebrate Arbor Day

Volunteer groups and workers in this free port joined the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) in a tree-planting activity here in celebration of Arbor Day on Thursday.

More than a thousand SBMA employees, workers from Freeport companies, and volunteers from various civic organizations in Olongapo City planted around 1,500 saplings of different tree species at the reforestation site in Mount Santa Rita.

Forester Patrick Escusa, head of the SBMA Ecology Center’s Social Development Division, which coordinated the event, said the participants included delegates from the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office of Olongapo City, the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary 111th Squadron in Hermosa, Bataan, the Department of Public Works and Highways, and the Philippine National Police offices in Olongapo and Hermosa.

SBMA Chairman Roberto Garcia said the project is part of the agency’s environmental preservation and conservation advocacy program under Republic Act 10716, which revived the observance of Arbor Day in 2012 and authorized government units to observe the annual event with tree-planting activities.

The same law requires all able-bodied citizens, who are at least 12 years of age, to plant at least one tree every year.

“What we’re doing here is taking care of the environment; yet we are also ensuring the sustainability of our future with this activity,” Garcia said. “With the help of stakeholders in the Freeport, the SBMA is committed more than ever to continue with this project and pave a brighter, greener tomorrow for Subic.”

The Arbor Day celebration, which was the first to be held here in the Subic Freeport, kicked off with a simple program in front of the SBMA administration building, and then proceeded with an 80-vehicle convoy to the reforestation site in Mount Santa Rita.

SBMA Deputy Administrator for Legal Affairs Randy Escolango, who is also commander of the PCGA 111th Squadron, said that the celebration was successful, considering the high turnout.

“The celebration was a big success. It only manifests that most us still care for the environment and are willing to give time and effort to preserve it,” Escolango said.

Meanwhile, dozens of employees and senior officials of Hitachi Terminals Mechatronics Philippines (HTMP), a Japanese company, which manufactures ATM parts and components, planted 150 mangrove wildlings at the mangrove sanctuary in the Freeport zone.

Catherine Dizon, HTMP assistant manager for administration, said that the activity is part of the firm’s corporate social responsibility program that also aims to promote awareness on environment preservation among the company’s workers.

“While it is harder to plant mangrove than tree saplings, this is a new experience for all of us and our Japanese bosses enjoyed doing this,” Dizon added.

The mangrove-planting activity was led by Hitoshi Ito, HTMP general manager for production; Hiroto Konoke, general manager for administration; Kenji Hattori, department manager for purchasing; and Tokunobu Asami, deputy department manager for engineering. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)


PHOTOS:
[1] SBMA employees and workers from locator-companies plant trees at Mount Santa Rita in celebration of Arbor Day in the Subic Bay Freeport on Thursday, June 25. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

[2] Employees of Hitachi Terminals Mechatronics Philippines conduct a mangrove reforestation project at the Malawaan mangrove sanctuary as part of the company's corporate social responsibility program. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

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RP Energy cuts Subic power plant capacity target to 300 MW

THE Redondo Peninsula (RP) Energy Inc. is lowering by half the target capacity of its newest coal-fired power plant at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone in Zambales.

The consortium is set to change the project parameters to reduce the capacity from 600 megawatts (MW) to 300 MW, Meralco Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan said.

RP Energy is a joint venture of Meralco PowerGen Corp., Aboitiz Power Corp., and Taiwan Cogeneration International Corp.
Pangilinan attributed the changes to the issues surrounding the transmission line connection.

“There were issues on the distance of the connection of the transmission line to the grid,” Pangilinan told reporters.

He explained that the transmission line from the power plant to the grid will have to go through areas that are apparently occupied by indigenous people.

“There are pockets where there are reserved areas. So you know we cannot build on top of that. That’s prohibited by law,” he said.

The project was originally conceived as 600 MW power facility, composed of two 300 MW coal­fired plant.

Its construction was delayed because of the Writ of Kalikasan filed before the Supreme Court (SC) by groups opposing the power plant.

The High Court upheld the project’s environmental compliance certificate, as well as the lease and development agreement with the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority.

The project is now in the construction phase after the consortium has hired the engineering, procurement and construction contractor.
The consortium has tapped a group of local banks to help finance the project. The power plant is expected to contribute additional generating capacity to the Luzon grid. (Ritchie A. Horario, The Manila Times)

http://www.manilatimes.net/rp-energy-cuts-subic-power-plant-capacity-target-to-300-mw/195801/

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Zambales fishers file HR case vs China before UN

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT — Thirty-eight fishermen from Zambales, who are among those displaced by China’s intrusion into the Scarborough Shoal or Bajo de Masinloc, on Wednesday made history by filing a case against the government of China, accusing the aggressor at the West Philippine Sea of violating their basic human right to adequate food.

Assisted by activist-lawyers from the University of the Philippines Law Center, the “Zambales 38” filed an urgent appeal before the United Nations (UN) Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights to seek a declaration from the body that China is violating their human rights by preventing them from accessing their only means of livelihood.

The fishermen, who come from the fishing towns of Masinloc and Subic, e-mailed the petition to the UN committee after a forum was held at the Pista sa Baryo restaurant here to explore various international remedies available to local fishermen who lost their livelihood because of the maritime dispute.

Lawyer Gilbert Andres, who sent the petition on behalf of the group, said the committee has confirmed receipt of the e-mail just minutes after it was sent.

Prof. Harry Roque Jr., director of the Institute of International Legal Studies at the UP Law Center, said the filing of the case is an historic undertaking because it was the first time that people of one country filed a complaint against the government of another.

Typically, he said, complaints of human-rights violations were filed by citizens of a country against their own government.

But Roque said the case filed by the Zambales fishermen was meant to send the message that territorial disputes are not just between nations, but also impact on the lives of people who seek sustenance from the resources inside those territories.

“The disputed islands and shoals are only important because there are people, like these fishermen here, who benefit from them,” Roque pointed out.

He added that, unfortunately, the case filed by the Philippine government with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Unclos) concerns only the territories claimed by the country and not the basic rights of local fishermen to livelihood and life.

“We have the duty to defend the human rights of these people, even if the violators are governments,” Roque added.

According to Miguel Detana, the former captain of the fishing boat F/B Marvin I based in Masinloc, Zambales, the virtual takeover by China of the Scarbrough Shoal, or Bajo de Masinloc, has robbed local fishermen of income of about P7,000 per week.

“I have been fishing at the Scarborough since 1991 and we always had a bountiful harvest because there was so much fish in the shoal. Now we get so little from the sea,” Detana said.

Detana and the crew of F/B Marvin I had not ventured into Scarborough since April 26, 2014, when their boat was hit with water cannon by a Chinese coast guard vessel. Now the owner of the boat is selling it to cut his losses.

Inocentes Forones Jr., who also owned boats that once fished at Bajo de Masinloc, said the locals can now only safely fish in municipal waters where they manage to catch about 1 kilo or 3 kilos of fish a day.

The displacement of their income, lawyers said, clearly illustrates how the fishermen’s right to adequate food has been violated by Chinese incursion into that part of the country’s exclusive economic zone.

Lawyer Celeste Cembrano-Mallari, a UP Law Center expert on Unclos, said because the Scarborough Shoal is just 124 nautical miles from the mainland of Luzon, the Philippines as a coastal state has every right to explore, exploit, conserve and manage the resources in its waters, as well as the seabed and subsoil.

Andres also explained that various international conventions guarantee the fishermen of Zambales the right to standard of living adequate for their health and well-being, as well as the right to adequate food.

Roque also said because it can be proven that the fishermen-victims suffered economic losses because of the violation, there should also be compensation for the income they have lost because of China’s incursion.

Roque added they have high hopes that the case against China would prosper, because it can be proven that Scarborough has long been a traditional fishing ground for local fishermen, and that the Philippines exercised control over it before it was forcibly taken over by China in 2012.

He said that at least two precedent cases are on record, wherein the UN committee had decided to respect traditional fishing rights of one country over the claims of another who encroached upon it. (Henry Empeño, BusinessMirror)

PHOTO:
Zambales fishermen and lawyer-supporters raise clenched fists on Wednesday as they sent an urgent petition against China to the United Nations Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.

http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/zambales-fishers-file-hr-case-vs-china-before-un/

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Exotic breeds of big cats are Subic theme park’s new residents

This most visited tourist destination in Central Luzon will likely capture more curious visitors and animal lovers with the arrival here of four specimens of two "new” breeds of big cats, the so-called “ligers” and “tigons.”

The Zoobic Safari theme park, which already houses various exotic animals from all over the world, welcomed on Friday the new residents who were flown in from the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Roberto Garcia said the new attractions at Zoobic Safari will tremendously boost tourism in the Freeport, as they are reputed to be among the few specimens in the country today.

“There are really lots of new things to see and experience in Subic,” he said. “Now, we have rare animals that you can only see in just a few places in the world, and Subic is one of them.”

According to Dr. Norilyn Molleno, the resident veterinarian at Zoobic Safari, ten crates of animals arrived on Thursday by plane from the UAE. The crates contained three lions, three lionesses, and the new breeds—two “ligers” and two “tigons”, all about two years old on the average.

Molleno explained that “ligers” are offsprings of a male lion and a female tiger, while tigons are crossbreeds of a male tiger and a female lion.

“They also have names. The tigons are ‘Togo’ and ‘Baby,’ while the ligers are ‘Neema’ and ‘Princess’,” she said.

Ligers may weigh up from 800 to 1,000 kilograms in adulthood at about three years old. They are bigger than the tigons, which weigh only from 500 to 800 kilograms. But both are bigger, however, than purebred tigers and lions.

Molleno added that the big cats are donations from a sheikh in the UAE who wishes to remain anonymous.

The sheikh donated the animals to Zoobic Safari in Subic for educational purposes, but only after confirming that the facility has the capability to handle and take good care of the animals.

“Accidental crossbreeding happens in the wild, and it is a good idea that the public should know that it is possible to happen,” she said, adding that these animals need facilities to house them.

The lady veterinarian added that Subic is lucky to have the animals since they could easily adapt to the local environment, which has almost the same temperature as that of the Middle East.

Two years ago, Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum also donated lions and lionesses for the theme park, which are now among the major attractions here.

Zoobic Safari is located in the 25-hectare Forest Adventure Park at the former Naval Magazine area of the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

The theme park houses the Zoobic Park, a two-hectare forest full of exotic, wild and semi-domesticated animals in their simulated natural habitat; Savannah, a wildlife sanctuary that contains ostriches, potbellies, wild boars, and guinea fowls; and Tiger Safari, a closed area of full-grown tigers on the loose. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTOS:
[1] A “liger,” which is a cross between a male lion and a female tiger, lets out a roar before emerging from the crate during its arrival at the Zoobic Safari theme park in Subic Bay Freeport on Friday. Two “ligers” and two “tigons”, along with six lions, were donated by a sheikh from the United Arab Emirates, and will be part of the theme park’s “Kings of the Jungle” exhibit. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

[2] “Neema,” one of two ligers that arrived at the Zoobic Safari theme park in Subic Bay Freeport on Friday, is coached into its pen at the park. Two “ligers” and two “tigons”, along with six lions, were donated by a sheikh from the United Arab Emirates, and will be part of the theme park’s “Kings of the Jungle” exhibit. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

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Bigger Ad Summit in Subic Freeport next year

A bigger Ad Summit Pilipinas is expected next year, as the country’s largest gathering of men and women in the advertising and marketing industry returns to Subic Bay Freeport again in 2016.

Bannering the theme “Come Out and Play,” Ad Summit Pilipinas 2016 will be held from March 9 to 12 at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC) to help advertising and marketing practitioners stay inspired, brimming with ideas, and extremely hopeful about the industry.

“We promise you more,” said Association of Accredited Advertising Agencies of the Philippines (4A’s) president Jenny Wieneke during the event launching at The Peninsula Manila recently.

She added that the coming event promises to take the challenge of innovative and creative development, which also promotes closer bonding among people behind the industry: the marketers, advertisers and the media.

Ad Summit 2016 chair Alex Syfu, meanwhile, explained that the theme encapsulates the constant need to shake the advertising community out of its comfort zone, to keep it from falling into the trap of focusing on the trials that seem to plague the industry these days.

“Play allows one to view possibilities where there was none before. It sees no obligations — just a wealth of opportunities,” explained Syfu.

“Ad Summit Pilipinas 2016 is an invitation for marketing practitioners to see the brighter side of things—to spot opportunities amidst industry challenges in order to propel brands into the future,” he added. “If you are not willing to take the challenge, then you might as well settle yourself for the ordinary set-up.”

For his part, Subic Bay Metropolitan (SBMA) chair Roberto Garcia assured the Ad Summit Pilipinas organizers that there will be “a lot to play in Subic.”

Garcia announced that SBMA will be spending from P20 to P30 million for the renovation of SBECC to make it more suitable and comfortable for the participants of Ad Summit next year.

The amount is part of the P800-million capital-expenditure fund being utilized this year by SBMA for the repair of service roads, and purchase of new vehicles, among others.

Syfu also noted that industry leaders are happy with the 2014 Ad Summit event in Subic Bay. “And because of that, because more people are clamoring for it, the most prestigious advertising gathering in the country is going to Subic again,” Syfu announced.

Ad Summit organizers also said that they intend to transcend the successes of the previous summit by bringing in new global icons and locally-renowned experts as speakers, putting up a more provocative line-up of topics, and planning a more engaging set of activities that will encourage participants to frolic during the four-day meet.

Another high point of Ad Summit is the staging of the “Kidlat Awards” of the Creative Guild of the Philippines, which is the country’s most prestigious creative advertising competition. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)

Check out Ad Summit Pilipinas on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AdSummitPH?fref=ts

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SBMA targets 11% hike in investments

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) is aiming to achieve an 11-percent growth in new investments at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone this year.

“We have an overall investment target. Last year, we did around P18 billion. We’re targeting around P20 billion this year,” SBMA chairman Roberto Garcia said in a chance interview.

He said the agency wants to attract investments in the tourism, maritime and high-value manufacturing sectors.

SBMA is promoting investments in tourism with meetings, conventions and other special events being held in the area.

Garcia said a total of seven new and expansion hotel projects are currently being undertaken at the freeport.

At present, hotels within the freeport have 3,500 rooms, enough to accommodate attendees of special events like the Ad Summit Pilipinas 2014.

The Association of Accredited Advertising Agencies of the Philippines has chosen the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center again for the venue of the Ad Summit Pilipinas slated to be held from March 9 to 12.

Aside from tourism, the agency is encouraging investments in the maritime and high-value manufacturing sectors which could generate jobs.

Garcia said the Subic Bay Freeport Zone offers advantages to locators in terms of convenience for shipment of products through the port in the area.

“It’s more convenient to ship from Subic because you don’t have to go through Manila. You can ship from Subic to anywhere. That’s the advantage. Plus, it’s cheaper,” he said, noting six international shipping lines currently use the port.

To encourage locators, he said SBMA has allotted P800 million for capital expenditures this year for improvement works at the freeport.

The amount will be spent for the rehabilitation of major roads as well as renovation of the facilities at the freeport.

“This is unprecedented. In the past years, our capex is just at P20 million,” Garcia said. (Louella D. Desideerio, The Philippine Star)

http://www.philstar.com/business/2015/06/15/1465899/sbma-targets-11-hike-investments

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House think tank outlines ways to end port logjam

TO address the problem of port congestion in Metro Manila, the House of Representatives’ Congressional Policy and Budget Research Department (CPBRD) has urged the government to consider Batangas and Subic ports as alternative main sea gateways and upgrade the country’s infrastructure.

CPBRD, the research body of the lower chamber, said in a discussion paper that it is imperative that the government seriously consider gradually shifting international container traffic to Batangas and Subic ports to solve the growing congestion problem in Metro Manila and to catalyze growth in adjacent regions.

It also encouraged the government to study carefully the proposal to cap volume in the Port of Manila (POM), and consider the impact of this policy in terms of the potential additional cost to shippers.

The CPBRD, citing a study by supply-chain stakeholders, said around 70 percent of the imported raw materials, equipment, supplies and consumer goods go to Metro Manila and Northern Cavite. About 18 percent go to Laguna, 6 percent to Batangas and Quezon; and 6 percent to Pampanga and other areas north of Metro Manila.

A big part of the exports come from Metro Manila and Northern Cavite, at 73 percent.

“The Joint Foreign Chambers [JFC] of the Philippines has suggested that the local government units of Metro Manila impose higher taxes on factories and warehouses as incentives to move to hubs like Batangas and Subic,” the research body said.

It added that “various groups have [also] advocated for the Batangas and Subic ports as alternatives of the POM to deliberately address the issue concerning the underutilization of these ports, albeit, improving in recent years.”

According to the CPBRD, around P17.5 billion was borrowed during President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s administration to finance the development of Batangas and Subic ports, excluding the additional investments of around P111.1 billion that funded the expressways leading to these ports.

The CPBRD also proposed separating the regulatory and operational functions of the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA).

“While the Batangas Port is under the PPA, the Subic Port is owned by the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority [SBMA]. Thus, it may seem challenging for the PPA to strongly promote the Subic Port as a competitor to the PPA-owned ports, including the POM, because of its potential to erode the PPA’s revenues substantially,” the paper said.

According to the CPBRD, the port-congestion problem in 2014 was unprecedented.

“The PPA had dealt with port-congestion problems in the past but only during Christmas season, when there is substantial increase in import volume. But the port congestion last year was far more complex and urgent, triggered by the Manila truck-ban ordinance,” it said.

The port-congestion problem last year has prompted the government to establish a Cabinet cluster, whose task was solely to address the port logjam, a result of the Manila truck ban, limited road capacity in Metro Manila and the growing trade volume.

Infrastructure projects

The research body also backed the proposals to construct a “mega port” within or outside Manila to support a growing trade volume in the next five to six years.

“Undoubtedly, the root of the congestion problem in the country is the lack of well-planned and efficient infrastructure,” it said.

The CPBRD added that the country’s infrastructure is among those identified by multilateral companies as one of the major weaknesses in its growing economy.

“Indeed, solving the country’s congestion problem requires more investment in infrastructure development,” the body said.

Also, it added that port stakeholders have suggested the need to build a dedicated elevated expressway connecting the POM directly to the North and South Luzon expressways.

“Some have even proposed to revive the railways from POM to Divisoria and Tutuban to Caloocan, and connecting them with North and South Luzon. The fast and cost-effective service by rail transport makes it a preferred mode of transporting passengers and cargoes,” the CPBRD said.

It said the country’s remarkable economic growth in recent years, as well as the expected gains from the upcoming Asean Economic Integration, is seen to facilitate robust international trade to support a consumption-driven economy and a booming manufacturing industry, adding: “The increasing capacity of ships calling at world ports requires port infrastructure that could accommodate post-Panamax vessels containing more than 14,000 to 18,000 20-foot equivalent units [TEUs], from the current 8,000 to 10,000 TEUs.”

National transport policy

One of the major shortcomings of the country’s infrastructure sector is the lack of an integrated national transport plan, the CPBRD said.

“The port-congestion problem would have been prevented had there been a national transport policy in place that guides and harmonize the development goals of the national and local governments. It is, therefore, imperative to put in place a comprehensive long-term National Transport Policy toward achieving a well-coordinated and integrated multimodal transport system in the country,” the research body added.

A national transport policy will also institutionalize and insulate the country’s national transport- development plan from political interventions as the case of the Manila truck ban, it said.

“[Also] it is vital for the transport-infrastructure network, such as port, airport, roads, rail transport, to be planned as a system to ensure the stability and sustainability of the key industries’ supply chain,” it said.

The CPBRD also adopted the proposal of the JFC for the formulation of a “master plan,” which should aim, for instance, to transform Manila into a financial and service center—tourism, finance, education, medical and business-process outsourcing.

“This would require moving factories and manufacturing activities to the outskirts of Metro Manila, particularly Cavite, Laguna, Bulacan, Pampanga, Batangas and Subic. Moreover, it is important to equip Batangas and Subic ports with world-class logistics facilities, including warehouses and distribution centers,” the lower chamber’s research body said. (Jovee Marie de la Cruz, BusinessMirror)

PHOTO:
The New Container Terminal 1 (NCT1) at the Subic Bay Freeport, recently declared as berth no. 8 of the Port of Manila.

http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/house-think-tank-outlines-ways-to-end-port-logjam/

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Floating bookstore ‘Logos Hope’ in Subic for 4 weeks

The world’s largest floating bookstore is now docked at the Riviera Wharf in this free port, offering more than 5,000 books from different countries and cultures all over the world for a fraction of their original cover price.

MV Logos Hope opened its doors for public viewing here on Tuesday with Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Roberto Garcia, Zambales Vice Governor Ramon Lacbain II, Central Luzon Tourism Director Ramon Tiotuico, and Captain Tom Dyer cutting the ceremonial ribbon.

“After more than two years, we welcome again Logos Hope back to our port with full support f​or their ongoing mission of enlightenment, unity and world peace,” Garcia said during the opening program.

He also asked Dyer and the members of the ship’s crew to take time to visit various attractions in the Subic Bay Freeport and the nearby communities “as a way of enlightening yourself about our corner of the world here.”

Logos HR director Andy Juliff, meanwhile, explained how the ship’s program works. “A ship full of people with different nationalities and cultural differences is a recipe for disaster, but here at Logos Hope faith in God is what bring us on board to work together in perfect harmony. It powers our engines safely to help the world,” he added.

Logos volunteers have also lined up events for local residents. On June 12​,​ they will have an International Crew Night at the Harbor Point Mall here to highlight the variety of cultures from all over the globe that they represent.

This will be followed by a Fun Night Café on June 21 and June 28, which will present interesting board games from cultures across the seas.

Meanwhile, local artists will be encouraged to join a painting contest on the themes, “What is Hope?” or “Logos Hope and the Philippines.” Deadline for the submission of entries will be on June 30.

The winner will be presented at the International Night and the painting will be displayed at the Logos Hope International Café.

​As the main attraction of Logos Hope, t​he books being sold at affordable prices cover various topics ranging from science to cooking and cultures, to hobbies and sports, among others.

Visitors can also enjoy a wide range of desserts and pastries, and other gastronomic pleasures at the ship’s International Café.

Logos Hope will stay at the Subic Bay Freeport for four weeks. (ADP/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTOS:

[1] SBMA Chairman Roberto V. Garcia (center), flanked by wife Mari​bi​ and Zambales Vice Gov. Ramon Lacbain II, Central Luzon Tourism Director Ramon Tiotuico (right) and Logos Hope HR director Andy Juliff, cut the ceremonial ribbon as ship captain Tom Dyer looks on during a ceremony to formally open the floating bookstore to the public on Tuesday. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

[2] Logos Hope ship captain Tom Dyer shows SBMA Chairman Roberto V. Garcia (third from right) and other visitors around the floating bookstore during the ceremonial opening on Tuesday at the Riviera Wharf of Subic Bay Freeport. With them are (from left): Mrs. Maribi Garcia, Central Luzon Tourism Director Ramon Tiotuico, Logos Hope HR director Andy Juliff, and Zambales Vice Gov. Ramon Lacbain II. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

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Betten leads Aussie sweep in Regent 5i50

SUBIC, Philippines – Australian Sam Betten struck gold on his second race in the Philippines, besting tough compatriots Mitch Kibby and Casey Munro for the coveted men’s pro crown of the inaugural Regent 5i50 Triahlon on an cloudy Sunday morning here.

The 6-foot-4 Betten stayed close to the pacesetters in the swim and bike phase then shifted to high gear in the concluding run to reach the finish line at Remy Field in 1:59:23.4.

Youthful Kibby placed No. 2 with 2:01:24 while Munro, who was out to nail his second 5i50 title in Subic, settled for third with 2:01:31.2. Clayton Fettell was fourth with 2:04:36.8 followed by Subic resident Michael Murphy (2:09:03.3).

“I finished second when I raced for the first time in the Philippines in Cebu Ironman 70.3 last year so I really wanted to go one better and try to go for a win today,” said Betten.

He came into the 1.5K swim, 40K bike,10K run race organized by Sunrise Events and backed by Regent Foods with a concrete plan and stuck with it.

“I swam conservatively and I rode with the boys who were riding really hard. Then on the run I just went for it, ran as hard as I could,” said Betten.

Kibby overtook two others to cop silver on his Phl debut.“I was alone in fourth (in the bike) and the strong three up front are gaining time on me. But I knew if I could maintain my own race, I could run well,” said the former football and cricket player.

Despite the overnight rains and the morning overcast, Munro found the heat too much. “It was really hot like last year. I got a pretty good group with Clayton (Fettel) and Sam. It was a hard race, an honest race, and the best person won.”

As motivated to emerge victorious was grizzled veteran Belinda Granger, who got her usual spot on the winners’ podium after posting 2:21:46.8 against younger rivals Dimity-Lee Duke of Australia (2:23:24.8) and local bet Monica Torres (2:25:07.2). Thai Carole Fuchs wound up fourth at 2:34.00.

Granger felt Subic was her turf, having won two previous 5i50 races here in 2012-13 before settling for bridesmaid to Caroline Steffen last year.

“It’s no secret that this has been my race. I won two years in a row and when Caroline came and I got second last time, I was a little bit peeved off. So it’s really nice to have a comeback this year and take the win (again),” said Granger.

She outran younger legs Duke and Torres.

“For the first time all year, I actually felt like I was racing in the run. That made the difference. I’ve been swimming and biking well all year but I don’t get the run down every single time. But today, I was happy to have a great run and I was able to hold off Dimity and Monica who also had a spectacular race,” said Granger.

Duke said she suffered bum stomach the past two days. “I really had to fight my way to the finish so I’m pretty happy I’ve come in second against one of my idols and one of the best women in the sport,” she said.

Torres, meanwhile, banked on her familiarity with her “home course” to land a podium finish.

“I live in Subic so I’m very familiar with the course and I’m happy to come in third for the pro women’s,” she said.

Alaska Tri Aspire’s Banjo Norte (2:07:56) and LC Langit (2:34:58) emerged as the top male and female Filipino elite competitors.

The winners received their trophies from Ironman Asia Pacific COO Jane Patterson, Sunrise president Wilfred Uytengsu, and Regent brand manager Jennifer See. (Olmin Leyba, The Philippine Star)

PHOTO:
Sam Betten of Australia won the men’s professional division of the Regent 5i50 Triathlon held at Subic Bay, Zambales. (Jun Mendoza)

http://www.philstar.com/sports/2015/06/08/1463516/betten-leads-aussie-sweep-regent-5i50

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Borlains dominate Alaska IronKids

SUBIC – Sisters Samantha and Tara Borlain turned the Wow Pool and Remy Field into their own playground, topping their respective divisions in the Alaska IronKids Aquathlon II in dominating fashion Saturday.

Samantha ruled the field in the girls’ 13-14 category while kid sis Tara romped off with the 11-12 tiara, making their twin feat even more dramatic by breasting the tape side by side. They logged an identical 14:39 winning time in the swim-run competition sponsored by Alaska and organized by Sunrise Events, Inc.

“It was a great race, it was fun. All I wanted to do was go with my sister, finish the race with her and have fun,” said the 13-year-old Samantha.

“It had a good start and it was a very exciting race,” said Tara, 12.

Samantha came out of the swim phase ahead of everybody else at 4:21 then sustained her charge in the run with a 5:58 clocking to log a triumphant 14:39.0. Christine Levi Gaspar (15:37) and Una Janus Sibayan (15:41) took runner-up honors.

Tara emerged from the pool not long after her sister and they went on to run together at the tracks of Remy Field. Tara (4:48 in swim and 5:05 in run) beat Julianne Christine Javier (15:24) and Everly Janarie Macalalad (15:35) for the top plum.

Their youngest sister Franchezka, however, fell short of a podium finish in the girls’ 6-8 category, which was dominated by Ma. Chelsea Faith Miñoza in 8:28.7. The seven-year-old Franchezka posted 11:03.9 for fourth. Gabrielle Agpalza (10:06.6) and Jisla Martina Batungbacal (10:51.0) placed No. 2 and 3, respectively.

National developmental team member Sabino Czar Manglicmot flashed top form in dominating the boys’ 13-14 play, clocking 13:47 to defeat Neil Nazarro (15:00) and Joshua Alexander Ramos (15:17).

Also striking gold were Matthew Thomas Alumbres (7:09.1) and Gabrielle Ong (8:49) in the 9-10 boys and girls bracket, respectively, Juan Francisco Baniqued (14:29) in boys’ 11-12; and Michael Gabriel Lozada (8:40.8) in the boys’ 6-8.

TriKids won the mixed team relay with 6:25 over Limitless Multisport (7:11.9) and Zamba Tri Team (7:19.1). (Olmin Leyba, Philippine Star)

PHOTO:
Sisters Sam and Tara Borlain rule their respective age bracket in the Alaska IronKids Aquathlon in Subic Bay, Zambales. Sam topped the 13-14 year-old girls division while Tara reigned in the 11-12 years old division.(Jun Mendoza)

http://www.philstar.com/sports/2015/06/07/1463167/borlains-dominate-alaska-ironkids

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Inaugural Regent 5i50 triathlon race lures top-notch field to Subic Bay

THE inaugural Regent 5i50 Triathlon blasts off on Sunday in Subic Bay featuring top-notch pros, Filipino elite, age groupers and relay competitors.

Aussies Casey Munro, Justin Granger, Clayton Fettell, Belinda Granger, and Dimity Lee-Duke and Thai Carole Fuchs lead a crack field of foreign pros vying for top honors in the 1.5K swim, 40K-bike and 10K-run race.

Banjo Norte, Jenny Guerrero, and LC Langit topbill the Filipino elite competitors while Kim Atienza, Matteo Guidicelli, Victor Basa and Onemig Bondoc are among the celebrities who signed up for event sponsored by Regent Foods, the leading snack manufacturing company in the Philippines.

“We commend Regent Foods for joining the ever-growing list of backers of this popular three-sport athletic competition. With a talent-laden international field, we expect a world-class competition since the event also serves as a fitting tune-up for those competing in the Ironman,” said Wilfred Uytengsu, president of the organizing Sunrise Events, Inc.

Regent 5i50 feature a challenging 1.5K one-loop, rectangular, clockwise swim at the waters of the Subic Bay Boardwalk, a 40km point-to-point bike ride to the Subic International Airport, heading to IDESS up to Tarlac Road and head back to Transition 2 in Remy Field.

The 10km run will start from Transition 2 in Remy Field and then head on to the first turn around Dewey Ave. then head back to Remy Field and then go to Rizal Highway entering Argonaut Highway for the second turn around and then back to Remy Field.

Athlete registration, race pack claiming and race briefing activities will be held on Friday and Saturday for the two-day pre-event backed by 2Go Express, official courier and logistics partner, Sante Barley, Newton Running, PLDT Subictel, TYR, Coca Cola Femsa, Garmin, David’s Salon, Shotz, Smart, Pioneer Insurance, The Philippine Star, Multisport Magazine, Intercare, Department of Tourism, Tourism Promotions Board and venue host Subic Bay.

For details, log on to www.regent.5i50philippines.com. (spin.ph)

http://www.spin.ph/triathlon/active-lifestyle/regent-5150-triathlon-subic-b-brege-banjo-norte-jenny-guerrero-lc-langit-kim-atienza-matteo-guidicelli-victor-basa-onemig-bondoc-casey-munro-justin-granger-clayton-fettell-belinda-granger-dimity-lee-duke-thai-carole-fuchs

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A beach pageant for Mrs. Philippines-Globe 2015

THE 4th Mrs. Philippines Globe Pageant crowned its new set of empowered beauty queens at an al fresco setting on Moonbay Beach in Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales last Sunday (May 31st).

Chosen as Mrs. Philippines-Globe 2015 was Sherry Lou Villaseñor, a professional make-up artist. She succeeded last year’s winner and Mrs. Globe finalist and Philanthropy Award recipient Janice Alop-Trillo, who also sat in the panel of judges.

Villaseñor won P200,000 worth of prizes from pageant sponsors and the right to represent the Philippines at the next Mrs. Globe Pageant in Shenzhen, China in November.

Named as Woman of Substance 2015 was Maria Engracia de Villar-Maniago, a teacher at Casa Kalayaan International School. Runners-up were Mary Ann Ternora, first; Jhunie Grace Lagman, second; and Jonalyn Agustin, third.

Eighteen contestants from all over the Philippines vied for the coveted titles in the pageant that was hosted by Mrs. Philippines-Globe 2014 2nd runner-up Aileen Cavas and Al Gatmaitan, and staged by renowned fashion director Raymund Villanueva.

Former Bb. Pilipinas-Universe Joyce Ann Burton-Titular and Australian pageant organizer Karen Sabarre were among the judges.

According to Mrs. Philippines-Globe national pageant director Morena Carla Cabrera-Quimpo, “This year’s Mrs. Philippines-Globe candidates embody the real strength of a Filipina mother – a woman who’s not confined by stereotypes and is strong, generous and bold enough to fulfill her responsibilities as a mother and a wife without compromising her own dreams.”

Now on its 4th year, the prestigious pageant continues to recognize married women of substance; mothers and single moms as movers of society, and a symbol of inspiration and beauty through their achievements, life stories and charitable causes.

With a vision that is focused on empowerment, Mrs. Philippines-Globe also launched its newest online store for a cause. It offers elegant charms and accessories made from indigenous materials, where part of the proceeds will be donated to the W.I.N. Foundation, an outreach that specializes in self-esteem recovery for women and children faced with all kinds of abuse – physical, emotional, financial or spiritual.

Mrs. Philippines-Globe 2015 was presented by L’Oreal, Solane, Camayan Beach Resort, Ocean Adventure, Calchews, Working Mom Magazine and Bio Oil, in partnership with Island Rose, Coffee Scrub Delight, Easyrock 96.3, Bragais Shoes and Chef’s Avenue.

The pageant, organized by EVI Marketing Communications, was also supported by Moonbay Marina Leisure Resort, The Lighthouse Marina Resort, Buma Subic Hotel, Subic Park Hotel and Restaurant Inc., The Villas, Mansion Garden Hotel, Leciel Hotel, Segara Hotel and Subic Coastal Development Corporation. (Malaya)

http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/entertainment/beach-pageant-mrs-philippines-globe-2015

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DENR commissions two survey ships in Subic Bay

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) formally commissioned two newly-acquired hydrography ships in a simple ceremony held on Monday (June 1) at the Bravo Wharf in this free port.

The ships, BRP Hydrographer Hizon and BRP Hydrographer Palma, are new modern catamaran-type hydrographic survey vessels for the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA), an attached agency of the DENR.

Leading the ceremony were DENR Secretary Ramon J.P. Paje, NAMRIA Administrator Peter Tiangco, Hydrography Branch director Comm. Jacinto Cablayan, and Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Roberto Garcia.

Paje said that the commissioning of the two survey ships will boost the capability of NAMRIA to perform the almost impossible task of gathering the latest and most accurate hydrographic and oceanographic data within Philippine waters from 10 to 3,000 meters deep, especially in ports, harbors and domestic sea lanes.

The data collected, according to Paje, will be used in producing and updating nautical charts, electronic navigational charts and other nautical publications to ensure safety of navigation and aid in natural hazard mitigation and marine scientific research.

“We believe that despite limitation of equipment and resources,
NAMRIA is performing its tasks so well,” he said, adding that the vessels will be significantly helpful in defining the economic sea boundaries of the Philippines.

Named after former directors of the Bureau of Coast and Geodetic Survey, Capt. Andres Hizon and Commodore Cayetano Palma, BRP Hydrographer Hizon and BRP Hydrographer Palma are 23-meter aluminum catamarans​ built by Colorado Shipyard in Cebu in 2013. These were brought to Subic in July 2014.

The ships, classed by the International Registry of Shipping, are complete with updated navigational system, security and safety system, survey systems and instrument and hardware, and hydrographic survey workstations, and have fully-furnished cabins.

“With the two additional mapping vessels, we must start now to map and protect our coastline and waters,” Paje said, noting that some European countries have already claimed parts of the mineral fields in the Pacific Ocean east of the Philippines.

Meanwhile, Garcia expressed full support to the leadership of DENR, saying that Subic “will always be ready to support the programs of NAMRIA in every possible way it can.”

Garcia noted that the Port of Subic is now home to the Philippine Navy’s two newly-acquired warships, the BRP Ramon Alcaraz and BRP Gregorio del Pilar, both Hamilton-class cutters that were acquired from the United States. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)​

PHOTOS:
[1] NAMRIA Hydrography Branch director Comm. Jacinto Cablayan (center) shows DENR Secretary Ramon J.P. Paje (right) and SBMA Chairman Roberto Garcia around the control room of BRP Hydrographer Palma during the commissioning ceremony.

[2] The BRP Hydrographer Palma while docked at the Bravo Wharf in the Subic Bay Freeport.

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Rescued dolphin alive, well at Ocean Adventure

SUBIC FREEPORT - A stranded dolphin that was rescued by members of the Philippine Marine Mammal Stranding Network (PMMSN) last April and brought to the Dolphin Rescue and Rehabilitation Center at Ocean Adventure, a marine theme park here, is on his way to a full recovery.

Gail Laule, chief operating officer of Ocean Adventure, said that the dolphin was named "Kagitingan" because he was rescued in the town of Subic, Zambales on April 9, or the Day of Valor.

Laule said that “through the timely efforts of PMMSN members and the Ocean Adventure Dolphin Rescue team, Kagitingan is alive and well today. He has been in rehabilitation just over a month and has completely recovered his buoyancy and can swim, dive, and do low breaches."

She added that his vigor and appetite "are now fully restored, and there are no signs of complications that might give rise to a concern. Having said that, there is still the possibility that he is suffering from some degree of hearing loss. "

She added that if Kagitingan's hearing loss is significant “he would not be able to find fish, communicate with other dolphins, and survive in the wild."

In the meantime, Laule said that Kagitingan has developed a close tie with April, a dolphin who was also rescued and transported to the Dolphin Rescue Center, some time ago. "They rest, eat, and swim together," she added.

Dr. Leo Suarez, staff veterinarian at Ocean Adventure, said that after Kagitingan was brought to Ocean Adventure, the animal was provided with 24/7 care by staff and trained volunteers to keep him safely afloat and to closely monitor his condition.

But now, Kagitingan has “a great appetite and eats four times a day. He has just been recently taken off antibiotics but still receives three different supplements everyday," he added.

Suarez said that Kagitingan might be suffering from “acoustic trauma,” which is highly likely caused by dynamite fishing.

Laule said that Dr. Aude Pacini, an expert on acoustic trauma, will be brought into the country to look at Kagitingan's condition.

"We will spare no expense in guaranteeing that Kagitingan gets the best care possible. His rescue and treatment is symbolic of our commitment to the welfare of marine mammals, and to the success of PMMSN," she said.

Laule noted that six dolphins have been brought to Ocean Adventure in the last year due to injuries caused by dynamite fishing. Two died, including a Frasers Dolphin named Julius from Pangasinan.

The other three survived but suffered permanent hearing loss.

Fondly referred to as the Dynamite Girls," they are living in the open water lagoons at the Park.

Laule said that the PMMSN network “is unrivalled in its effectiveness and excellence. We are doing great work, and saving lives of marine mammals all throughout the country. There is nothing quite like it in the world.”

Laule added that anyone interested in becoming a trained volunteer and member of the PMMSN “should contact Ocean Adventure through our FB page or our website PMMSN.ORG, or call 047-252-9000. (PR, SunStar Pampanga)

PHOTO:
Kagitingan – The Rough Toothed Dolphin. Named by the first responders from Subic Town.

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/local-news/2015/06/03/rescued-dolphin-alive-well-ocean-adventure-411216

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SBMA names environment officers

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has established environment officers in its various departments and operational units to bring together employees and workers in the Subic Bay Freeport in a collaborative effort to make this economic zone more environment-friendly.

The environment advocates banded together to form the SBMA Environmental Officers’ Organization (SEOO), which is envisioned to be the leading advocate for a sustainable environment in Subic Bay Freeport.

The officers of SEOO recently took their oath of office before SBMA Chairman Roberto Garcia, who expressed his appreciation to the members of the organization for “going out of their official functions for the sake of environmental protection.”

“We need to be more aware of our environment, and our task goes down from the simplest of things as keeping the environment clean to preserving it and improving it, too,” Garcia reminded the group.

“For this very important task, you would be in the forefront as prime movers,” he added.

Those who were inducted as SEOO officers are: Loreto Abella of the Public Health & Safety Department, who was elected president; Jun Sarmiento, of the Office of the Deputy Administrator for Finance, vice president; Arlene Pangilinan, of Public Relations Department, secretary; Angie Nafarrete, of Airport Department, treasurer; Jay Sanggalang, of the Financial Control Department, auditor; and Ruben Veloria, of the Media Production Department, public relations officer. Forester Patrick Escusa of the Ecology Center was chosen as head of the Secretariat.

Among the stated goals of the SEOO is the promotion of positive environmental awareness in the conservation and preservation of nature within the Freeport and its environs.

The group also endeavors to encourage the wise use of resources through reducing, reusing, and recycling (3R’s); launch environment-related activities and projects that will increase awareness of​ the importance of a healthy environment in the work place, home​,​ and community; and engage in environmental projects such as reforestation, as well as environmental and safety compliance audits​.

Aside from aiming to be the leading advocate for sustainable environment in Subic Bay Freeport, the SEOO also seeks to serve as role model for similar organizations around the country.

For its initial projects, the SEOO is planning to lead the first Arbor Day celebration in the free port this year, launch an environmental songwriting competition, and organize a counterpart group in the private sector. (ADP/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:
Officers of the SBMA Environmental Officers’ Organization take their oath of office before SBMA Chairman Roberto V. Garcia on May 27. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

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Floating bookstore, library docks in Subic Bay

Logos Hope, the largest floating bookstore and library in the world, docked on Monday at the Riviera Pier in Subic Bay for a month-long stay.

MV Logos Hope, which is operated by a Good Books for All, a German Christian charitable organization, brings with her an expanded selection of over 5,000 books covering subjects ranging from science, sports, hobbies and family life, dictionaries, atlases and more.

The volunteer crew and staff numbering 400 people, representing more than 45 different countries, joined the organization and live on board for two years as volunteers.

The ship’s crew will be doing onshore and on-board activities featuring a“big” variety of cultures found across the world.

Special events such the Fun Night Cafe is scheduled on June 21 on-board the ship while the Board Game is on June 28, that will make the visitors enjoy the fellowship of crew members who will demonstrate games popular in the country where the crews came from.

Meanwhile, to celebrate Logos Hope return to Subic Bay, local artists were earlier invited to participate in the drawing contest featuring “what hope is” or Logos Hope and the Philippines. The winners will be announced at the International Night on June 12.

In addition, the Visitor Experience Deck will be available to the public, especially to the newcomers, giving them an opportunity to explore.

From the Welcome Area, the ship will be introduced to the visitors through a short movie and interactive displays which is said to have something for everyone.

The book ship will be opened to public starting June 9 until July 5 from Tuesdays to Saturdays (10 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.) and from 1:30 to 9:30 p.m. during Sundays.

There is an entrance fee of P20 per person, but children under 13 years old and senior citizens 60 years old and above are free. (Philippine News Agency)

PHOTO:
Logos Hope/Photo by Arne List from Kiel, Germany (Logos Hope DSC_6743 Uploaded by Trycatch) [CC BY-SA 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

http://www.mb.com.ph/floating-bookstore-library-docks-in-subic-bay/

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GrainPro launches innovative solar dryer to help small farmers

A Subic-based company, recognized as world leader in post-harvest storage and drying solutions, launched another innovation of solar-powered grain dryers that aim to improve the productivity of small farmers.

GrainPro Inc., with a manufacturing and marketing facility in Subic Bay, announced the commercial launching of its Solar Bubble Dryer 25 (SBD25), which promises significantly improved grain drying capability all-year round.

The company also produces the SBD25-Electric, which has the same specifications but uses electricity to operate.

SBD25 is a collapsible modular dryer measuring 15 meters long and with a drying area of 25 square meters that can accommodate up to 500 kilograms of grains. Because of its compact feature, the SBD25 can be easily transported, assembled, and stored.

Branded as a perfect innovation for small farmers who produce 300-500 kilos per harvest, the SBD25 dries the grains while protecting them against rain and rewetting at day time and moisture-filled air at night.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Roberto Garcia lauded GrainPro for creating the SBD25, which is expected to significantly help small farmers, especially those who live in communities without proper drying facilities or space.

“Our farmers will be happy to own this portable but very useful equipment,” said Garcia.

He noted that the SBD25-Solar uses solar power and can be used even in the remotest part of the country that lack the necessary dry space and facility for harvested grains, such as corn, coffee beans, cacao, spices, peanuts, and other grain seeds.

“Smallholder farmers now have the perfect drying partner with the SBD25,” says Philippe Villers, president of GrainPro, Inc., which has its main office in Concord, Massachussetts, USA.

“Almost all of the grain commodities can benefit from the superior drying ability of SBD25, which will help improve farm production and the income potential of farmers in developing nations,” Villers said.

Last year, GrainPro rolled out at its production facility in Subic Bay the SBD25’s predecessor, the Solar Bubble Dryer 50 (SBD50) and Collapsible Dryer Case II (CDC II) which are designed to dry up to one metric ton using the same principles employed by the SBD25.

A wholly-owned subsidiary of US-based GrainPro, GrainPro Philippines has sales offices in India, Kenya, Ethiopia, Ivory Coast, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Brazil and Mexico. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO: 
The Solar Bubble Dryer 25 (SBD25) is touted to be a perfect drying partner for smallholder farmers. 

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Japanese dominate Subic tablenet

Yuya Oshima and Kasumi Ishikawa dominated the tables to lead the all-Japan winner’s circle in the singles tournaments at the conclusion of of the GAC Group International Table Tennis Federation World Tour Philippine Open on Sunday at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center.

Oshima – ranked 57th in the world and second in the bracket – blanked tournament top-rank and world no. 24 Jung Youngsik of South Korea in straight sets, 11-5, 11-7, 12-10, 11-9, to cop his first senior men’s singles title in the World Tour circuit.

In the semifinals of Sunday’s late morning session, Oshima made quick work of Chinese Taipei’s Wu Chih-Chi, 11-4, 11-8, 11-6, 11-7, also in straight sets to complete his dominant outing on the tournament’s final day.

The two met each other in the qualifying rounds of the German Open last March, with the world ranked no. 24 South Korean booting out Oshima in a hotly contested match. With this weighing heavily in his head, the Japanese bet did not take this chance lightly and dominated the match from the get-go to claim the top prize.

“I played against him in Germany last March, so I made up my plan against Jung carefully in advance. So it’s a measure of revenge for me,” said Oshima. “I haven’t had good results for the past few months, so it is a great thing for me to achieve and win the title here. It will give me much more confidence.”

“I played very cool in my mind, and it helped me so much in winning the title,” he added.

In the women’s singles, Ishikawa – the tournament’s top seed – nabbed her third World Tour singles title at the expense of Ai Fukuhara in six sets, 7-11, 11-8, 11-8, 9-11, 11-5, 11-8, in a battle pitting two of Japan’s most-skilled offensive players.

Ishikawa – coming off a tough seven-set semi-final encounter against Yuka Ishigaki earlier in the day – mustered enough firepower to control her matchup against compatriot Fukuhara, who is currently regaining her form following a foot injury that washed away her 2014 campaign. (MST Sports, Manila Standard)

PHOTO:
Women's champion Kasumi Ishikawa (JPN) and men's champion Yuya Oshima (JPN)

http://manilastandardtoday.com/2015/06/01/japanese-dominate-subic-tablenet/

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US lifts shore leave ban for sailors in PH

The United States Pacific Command (USPACOM) has eased liberty restrictions on American troops in the Philippines.

With the lifting of the liberty ban effective May 29, sailors of USS Shiloh now in Subic Bay are allowed to go on pass or shore leave to briefly experience Filipino culture.

USS Shiloh, a Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser with approximately 360-person crew of which 31 are Filipino-American, dropped anchor in Subic Bay Friday for a port visit as part of an ongoing patrol in the region.

“The routinely scheduled port visit will permit the ship to replenish supplies, strengthen people-to-people ties through community outreach,” said a statement from the US embassy.

It added that the port visit will afford Shiloh’s crew “the opportunity to briefly experience Filipino culture, which is reflective of strong historic, community, and military connections.”

A USPACOM message dated May 27 announced the plan to reopen liberty in the Philippines commencing May 29.

It added that US service members will adhere to the USPACOM liberty/pass policy which states that a curfew of 2400-500 (12mn-5:00 a.m.) be strictly enforced in all areas of the Philippines.

All U.S. military personnel are required to observe the buddy system, wherein one has to be accompanied by another service member, DoD civilian, contractor, spouse or adult family member when on liberty pass.

“All service members who are on temporary duty or on a port call to the Philippines shall strictly comply with liberty zones posted on the Foreign Clearance Guide”

Liberty policy has been tight in the Philippines since the killing of Filipino transgender, Jeffrey Laude alias “Jennifer” allegedly at the hands of a US serviceman in October last year.

In April when more than 6,000 U.S. forces arrived in the country for the annual Balikatan exercise, PACOM spokesman Maj. David Eastburn said in an email to the Manila Bulletin that “liberty is not authorized in the Philippines.”

Olongapo Mayor Rolen C. Paulino said the “no liberty policy” resulted to lost income opportunities, not only for the city, but the country as a whole. (Elena L. Aben, Manila Bulletin)


http://www.mb.com.ph/us-lifts-shore-leave-ban-for-sailors-in-ph/

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DFA holds multi-sectoral forum in SBFZ on the West Philippine Sea

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) held a nationwide information, education and communication (IEC) campaign on the West Philippine Sea.

In partnership with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), a Multi-Sectoral Forum in Subic, Olongapo in Region 3 was held Friday (May 29).

DFA Spokesperson and Assistant Secretary Charles C. Jose spoke about the West Philippine Sea issue to an audience of 180, who came from different sectors of society across the region.

In attendance were representatives of the regional offices of various national government agencies including the DFA, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Science and Technology (DoST), and from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), among others. Officials from the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), representatives of the local government units of Olongapo City and Subic, Zambales, uniformed personnel from the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM), as well as various other local organizations were also present.

The event also drew a broad and varied participation from private sector groups, including representatives of several business locators in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone (SBFZ), members of the local press, academe, and university students.

Most importantly, leaders of the fisherfolk community in the Zambales area, whose traditional fishing grounds include Bajo de Masinloc and surrounding waters within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), attended the event.

They had the opportunity to engage Assistant Secretary Jose and BFAR Region 3 Director Wilfredo Cruz in a dialogue to share their personal experiences in fishing in the area of Bajo de Masinloc and also to express their concerns about their livelihood and general welfare.

The Multi-Sectoral Forum was held in the ballroom of Mansion Garden Hotel, located within the SBFZ.

The Multi-Sectoral Forum is an expanded version of the Special Kapihan ng Mamamayan on the West Philippine Sea. The first two rounds were held in Cebu City and Cagayan de Oro City earlier this year. The next round will be held in Laoag City in Region 1 this June. (Cristina Lee-Pisco, Journal)

http://www.journal.com.ph/news/top-stories/china-slams-us-ph-over-status-quo-call

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