The bamboo bats, which may weigh from 3.5 to 5.8 grams, are endemic to Subic Bay with its large rainforest reserve, one of the biggest in the island of Luzon.
26 August 2015
One of the smallest mammals thrive in Subic Bay
The bamboo bats, which may weigh from 3.5 to 5.8 grams, are endemic to Subic Bay with its large rainforest reserve, one of the biggest in the island of Luzon.
20 August 2015
Subic Freeport workforce to breach 100,000-mark this year
The number of workers in this premier free port is expected to reach the 100,000 mark this year, as the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) continues to attract investors in the tourism and manufacturing industries here.
According to Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Roberto Garcia, the Subic Bay Freeport is now home to a total of 99,463 employees working in various companies here, with shipbuilding giant Hanjin Heavy Industries and Construction-Philippines (HHIC-Phil) having almost 30,000 workers.
Garcia said that with the current investment and employment generation outlook, as well as the need to allocate some area for the planned Philippine military bases inside Subic, the SBMA is looking around for more suitable spaces for new investors since most of the available land in the Freeport have already been taken.
As of now, Garcia said that the service industry in Subic Freeport hires the most number of workers at a total of 45,661, which is equivalent to 45.91% of the total number of employees here. The workers in this sector include waiters, busboys, bellhops, kitchen staff, and others employed by tourism-related companies.
The manufacturing industry comes in next with 14.79% of the total Subic workforce. Workers in this field are mostly employed at the two industrial parks here, the Japanese-owned Subic Techno Park (STEP) and the Taiwanese-controlled Subic Bay Gateway Park.
He added that with new economic developments in the Asia-Pacific region, more Japanese companies are now looking into the possibility of investing in Subic Bay Freeport.
Meanwhile, the recent construction boom in the Freeport zone has brought more workers to Subic. Garcia said that as more hotels and restaurants are put up inside the Freeport, construction workers has swelled to 2.81% of the workforce here.
Another growing area in the employment scene here is the category for domestic helpers and caretakers. Garcia pointed out that aside from tourists, retirees are also moving into the Subic Freeport for its tranquil atmosphere and access to health and wellness facilities.
Among the companies registered in the Subic Bay Freeport, Hanjin is the single biggest employer with workers at its Redondo shipbuilding facility making up 36% of the total Subic workforce.
Garcia said that Hanjin expects its workers to breach the 30,000 mark this year, as the company had signed more shipbuilding contracts for this year.
According to Hanjin President Jeong Sup Shim, the company would require more skilled workers to complete new orders such as the three ultra-large container ships (ULCS) for the French shipping conglomerate CMA CGM.
Shim added that aside from CMA CGM, the company has also bagged contracts for six 11,000-TEU vessels with leading shipping companies across Europe and Asia.
Shim also said that because of the growing business at Hanjin’s Subic shipyard, the Philippines is currently ranked by the authoritative and Europe-based Clarksons Research as the 4th largest shipbuilding nation in the world in terms of order book by builder country.
He added that at the same time, Clarksons has reported that Hanjin Subic shipyard is the 10th largest shipyard in the world in terms of order book and now contributes 1.7-million compensated gross tonnage (CGT), which is equivalent to 74% of the Philippines’ CGT for new vessels. (JRR/MPD-SBMA)
Japan joins US-PH Humanitarian drills amid South China Sea dispute
A Japanese navy replenishment ship was in Subic Bay, a former US naval base, to refuel a US Navy floating hospital en route to Vietnam for the seven-nation humanitarian mission.
It was the first time a Japanese navy ship has taken part in the humanitarian assistance and disaster relief drills from Subic Bay. Japan has participated in past Pacific Partnership missions in other areas.
A flotilla of Japanese training vessels, including a submarine, makes annual port calls in Manila.
Rear Admiral Charles Williams, commander of US Seventh Fleet’s Task Force 73, said humanitarian assistance and disaster relief exercises were becoming a regular component of military exercises in the Philippines.
“You are seeing in exercises ... a shift from strictly bilateral engagement to multilateral, which is why you see the Japanese here today,” Williams told journalists aboard USNS Mercy, one of two US hospital ships.
China claims most of the South China Sea, through which $5 trillion in ship-borne trade passes every year. The Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan and Brunei also have overlapping claims. Japan and China also have conflicting claims in the East China Sea.
Williams said the presence of Admiral Katsutoshi Kawano, head of Japan’s Self-Defence Forces, “speaks volumes about their commitment to the region and their commitment to being part of a multilateral engagement.”
Kawano met last week with his Philippine counterpart, General Hernando Iriberri, and Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin in Manila, where he expressed interest in holding joint amphibious landing exercises and operations with Philippine marines.
In a meeting with Gazmin, Kawano also expressed interest in sharing information in the South China Sea and capacity building, particularly in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
Williams said humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations were “a great avenue towards increasing maritime stability and security in this region,” part of Washington’s rebalance to Asia policy.
China hit back on Monday at US criticism that it restricts navigation and overflights in the South China Sea. US Secretary of State John Kerry also said China’s construction of facilities on man-made islands for “military purposes” was raising tension and risked “militarization” by other claimant states. (Reuters)
PHOTO:
The USNS Mercy is sandwiched by the USS Pecos (right) and the Japanese Navy ship JDS Mashu (far left) all docked at the Alava Pier early August as participants of Pacific Partnership 2015. (RBB/MPD-SBMA)
http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/japan-joins-us-ph-humanitarian-drills-amid-south-china-sea-dispute
19 August 2015
Subic Freeport gets ready for big “Ber” months tourist arrivals
SBMA Chairman Roberto Garcia revealed that the agency is currently implementing various infrastructure projects that include repair of roads and bridges, improvement of drainage systems, park development, as well as installation of road signs to give the Subic Bay Freeport a fresh and snappy look.
“The projects are very necessary not only to impress tourists, but to communicate the underlying message of the SBMA’s good fiscal performance,” Garcia said.
In March this year, the Central Luzon Regional Development Council commended SBMA for successfully turning around its income generation performance from negative P.2 billion in 2006-2011 to positive P1.3 billion in 2014.
Garcia noted that since SBMA is continuously performing well for the past three years, “It is only well and good that some of the income will be used to upgrade our infrastructure to provide safer roads and parks for our residents and visitors.”
Garcia also mentioned that the bridge leading to the Freeport’s main gate, which connects the Freeport to Olongapo City’s Magsaysay Drive, will also undergo repair and will soon again be opened to motorists after almost a decade of closure due to weakened foundations.
The bridge was constructed during the early years of the American tenure of the former US Naval Base here.
Garcia also said that the Boardwalk Park, the Freeport’s popular family and cultural venue, will be redeveloped and made ready for the 25th anniversary celebration of the SBMA in November this year. The rehabilitation will include the construction of a bigger stage and the installation of a permanent projection screen there.
The Boardwalk Park in the Freeport is not only a landmark and favorite place for picnics and watching the scenic Subic sunset, but is also the preferred venue for outdoor events and cultural shows, musical concerts, and sports activities.
The annual New Year countdown that attracts thousands of residents from the Subic community, as well as visitors from as far as Metro Manila, also takes place at the Boardwalk Park. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)
PHOTOS:
SUBIC ROAD REPAIR PROJECTS Workers undertake road improvement along the Rizal Highway in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, as the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) announced an infusion of P40 million for road repair and other infrastructure maintenance projects. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)
17 August 2015
EPI to build multibillion wind, solar projects in Subic
EMERGING Power, Inc. (EPI), a renewable energy company, will be putting up multibillion-peso wind and solar power projects at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone in line with its expansion from geothermal to solar and wind power.
The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has approved the entry of EPI into local company Jobin-SQM Inc. (JSI) via the acquisition of a 90 percent stake in the latter, SBMA acting deputy administrator Ronnie R. Yambao said.
The SBMA is the operating and implementing arm of the government for the development of a 670 square kilometer area of Subic Bay Freeport (SBF) into a self-sustaining tourism, industrial, commercial, financial, and investment center to generate employment opportunities.
In 2014, JSI president Nancy Tan signed a 50-year lease agreement with SBMA chairman Roberto Garcia for the development of a wind and solar project on an 800-hectare property on Mt. Sta. Rita, about 8 kilometers away from Olongapo City.
JSI has energy service contracts for 100 megawatts (MW) of solar power and 50 MW of wind power granted by the Department of Energy (DOE).
The Mt. Sta. Rita solar project, worth $200 million, is expected to be operational by June 2016 and is seen to reduce coal consumption by 44,300 tons per year.
A feasibility report by JSI released in March 2015 showed that the site is a suitable location for a solar energy facility that can produce up to 100 MW of power.
The report cited “convenient traffic, superior geographic position and rich solar energy resources” as factors proving the viability of the project.
It said the project meets the increasing demand for energy of the emerging Freeport Zone, while also speeding up the area’s economic and social development.
EPI chairman Antonio Martin Zamora said the project will pave the way for bringing clean and renewable power to SBMA.
“What better way to spark progress and growth to the people of Subic and investors in the country’s first freeport than by making clean and stable power available to them?” said Zamora.
Nickel Asia Corporation (NAC), one of the country’s biggest mining firms, holds a majority share in EPI.
NAC has said in a recent disclosure that it will guarantee the loan facility of EPI for up to P3 billion over a three-year period to finance EPI’s renewable energy projects.
NAC said it has earmarked $60 million for the purchase of JSI and Phase 1 of the project, which will initially be able to generate up to 25 MW of solar power.
EPI is also putting up a 40-MW geothermal power company in Oriental Mindoro, a 10-MW solar project in Camarines Sur, a 2.5-MW biogas project in Quezon; and a 10-MW solar and bunker hybrid project in Northern Palawan. (Ritchie A. Horario, Manila Times)
http://www.manilatimes.net/epi-to-build-multibillion-wind-solar-projects-in-subic/209576/
Ducay shines in 2015 Asian Paratriathlon
Competing with a left arm impairment, the 47-year-old Ducay never lost his focus despite placing fifth out of six participants in the swim leg to spearhead the Philippines’ two silver and a bronze medal performance in this race organized by Triathlon Association of the Philippines and sanctioned by the Asian Triathlon Confederation (ASTC), Asian Paralympic Committee and Philspada.
Andy Avellano took the second silver medal over compatriot Arnal Aba in the PT2 in this event sponsored by Subic Bay Metropolitan AuthorityTourism Department, Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee, ASTC, Asian Centre for Insulation Phil., Gatorade, Speedo, SM Cares, Canon and Standard Insurance.
A total of seven countries saw action with Hong Kong bagging a silver, Korea and Malaysia taking home a bronze each while Kyrgyzstan and Singapore did not win a medal.
Leading the Japanese invasion was Yokohama World Paratriathlon Championships fourth placer Keiichi Sato who emerged as the fastest paratriathletes with one hour, seven minutes, 20 seconds in PT4.
Other winners were Junpei Kimuna in PT1 (1:11:25), Kenshiro Nakayama in PT2 (1:24:26), Hikeki Uda in PT3 (1:12:15) and Ryu Nakazawa in PT5 (1:14:24) in the male and Atsuko Yamada in female PT5 (1:23:37).
DZSR Sports Radio 918, TeleDyaryo, RaceDay, SBR.ph, Kikay Runner and PinoyFitness.com are the event’s media partners. (The Philippine Star)
PHOTOS:
[1] Facebook post from the ASTC Paratriathlon congratulating first placer Junpei Kimura of Japan
[2] Sixto Ducay finishes 2nd in PT4 category (photo from TRAP Facebook page)
http://www.philstar.com/sports/2015/08/17/1489043/ducay-shines-2015-asian-paratriathlon
AFP to reopen Subic as Navy, PAF base DND: Irreversible crisis has reached tipping point
Gazmin unveiled plans two years ago to open air force and navy camps at the Freeport so fighter jets and frigates can respond faster to any contingency in the disputed waters where the Philippines has been facing an assertive China, which claims most of the area.
The Philippines signed an expanded defense cooperation agreement with the US last year to allow allied American forces to temporarily station at camps including Subic, but the pact became uncertain after left-wing groups questioned its constitutionality at the Supreme Court.
While a US military presence in the camps would help, Gazmin said the government would proceed to construct the bases soon even if the court eventually decides against access for US troops.
The Philippines has scrambled to modernize its military, one of Asia’s weakest. It has bought 12 new South Korean fighter jets with the first two to be delivered later this year and stationed at Subic, Gazmin said.
Subic Bay, about 80 kilometers northwest of Manila, used to host Washington’s largest naval base outside the American mainland until it was closed down in 1992, ending nearly a century of US military presence.
Three years after, China seized a strategic reef also claimed by Manila, prompting Philippine senators to ratify the pact that allowed American forces to return for annual combat drills.
Roberto Garcia, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority chairman, said an airport and seaport will have a dual military-civilian use.
Businesses, including hotels and restaurants, would likely back the return of military personnel, he said.
American personnel from the USNS Mercy, a huge hospital ship docked in Subic for an annual humanitarian mission, swarmed shopping malls and restaurants. “There was a guy who brought two Christmas lanterns to his ship,” Garcia said.
Japan joins drill
Also in Subic Bay, Japan has joined US-led maritime humanitarian exercises the first time, as concerns over China’s growing assertiveness grow.
A Japanese navy replenishment ship was in Subic Bay, a former US naval base, to refuel a US Navy floating hospital en route to Vietnam for the seven-nation humanitarian mission.
It was the first time a Japanese navy ship has taken part in the humanitarian assistance and disaster relief drills although a flotilla of Japanese training vessels, including a submarine, makes annual port calls in Manila.
Rear Admiral Charles Williams, commander of US Seventh Fleet’s Task Force 73, said humanitarian assistance and disaster relief exercises were becoming a regular component of military exercises in the Philippines.
“You are seeing in exercises ... a shift from strictly bilateral engagement to multilateral, which is why you see the Japanese here today,” Williams told journalists aboard USNS Mercy, one of two US hospital ships.
China claims most of the South China Sea, through which $5 trillion in ship-borne trade passes every year. The Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan and Brunei also have overlapping claims. Japan and China also have conflicting claims in the East China Sea.
Williams said the presence of Admiral Katsutoshi Kawano, head of Japan’s Self-Defence Forces, “speaks volumes about their commitment to the region and their commitment to being part of a multilateral engagement.”
Kawano met Wednesday with Armed Forces chief General Hernando Iriberri, and Gazmin at Camp Aguinaldo, where he expressed interest in holding joint amphibious landing exercises and operations with Philippine marines.
In a meeting with Gazmin, Kawano also expressed interest in sharing information in the South China Sea and capacity building, particularly in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
Williams said humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations were “a great avenue towards increasing maritime stability and security in this region,” part of Washington’s rebalance to Asia policy.
While welcoming Japan’s military plans, Gazmin stressed a Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) is needed before any joint military undertaking can be allowed on Philippine soil.
“The defense secretary has welcomed Admiral Kawano’s interests in more activities with the Philippines, emphasizing that with regard to conducting such activities, a VFA with Japan would be needed,” DND spokesman Peter Paul Galvez said.
In the absence of the VFA, Japan and the Philippines would make do with a Memorandum on Defense Cooperation and Exchanges.
“Aside from defense equipment cooperation, Admiral Kawano also stressed the importance of capacity building cooperation with the Philippines, particularly on matters concerning Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response,” Galvez said.
Tipping point
China is taking the region to the “tipping point” of an “irreversible crisis” with its plan to build what it calls search and rescue facilities on its newly built artificial islands in the West Philippine Sea, Galvez also said yesterday.
“Maybe we should ask: ‘For whom are those search and rescue facilities for?’ Is it for our ships and installations that they are threatening to destroy?” Galvez said in a text message.
“It must be stopped otherwise it will be the tipping point that will plunge the entire region including the peace-loving Chinese communities into a deeper and irreversible crisis,” he said.
Galvez said such facilities are actually elements of China’s “island building militarization that needs to stop and be dismantled.”
“Regardless of what supposedly ‘good’ details the Chinese leadership informs the peace-focused and rules-based international community, they illegally and blatantly continue with their aggression,” he added.
“They are simply trying to cover their tracks. This is the worst stage of all, this is the militarization stage,” the defense official said.
To strengthen its claim in the South China Sea, China built artificial islands on seven reefs also being claimed by the Philippines.
The construction projects are on Panganiban (Mischief), Zamora (Subi), Kagitingan (Fiery Cross), Kennan (Chigua), Mabini (Johnson South), Burgos (Gaven) and Calderon (Cuarteron) Reefs.
The international community – including the United States and the European Union – has expressed alarm over China’s reclamation activities. Beijing is unperturbed.
Philippine officials said China’s reclamation is a violation of the 2002 Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, which bars claimant states from engaging in activities than can complicate the situation.
On Tuesday, Chinese Ambassador Zhao Jianhua announced that China is planning to build facilities on reclaimed reefs to support freedom of navigation, search and rescue efforts and scientific research. (Alexis Romero, Jaime Laude, AP, The Philippine Star)
PHOTO:
Cmdre. Primitivo Gopo is the new chief of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao. (Phil Star file photo)
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2015/08/15/1488227/afp-reopen-subic-navy-paf-base-dnd-irreversible-crisis-has-reached
14 August 2015
SBMA releases bigger revenue shares to neighboring LGUs
The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) releases a total of P124 million in revenue shares for the first semester to the seven municipalities and one city located near this premier free port.
The P124-million shares released for the first semester of 2015 topped last year’s P93.7 million by 32.5 percent.
According to SBMA Chairman Roberto Garcia, the increase in revenue shares of the local government units (LGUs) was brought about by the higher profits enjoyed by both the Agency and the Freeport locators during the period.
“The first semester saw a much improved business environment in the Freeport, which paved the way for better bottom lines and the start-up operations of many new locators,” the SBMA chairman added.
Garcia who also announced that the funds for the LGUs, available since last Friday, August 7, said the LGU shares are derived from 2 percent of the 5 percent corporate taxes paid by Subic Bay Freeport-registered enterprises from January to June 2015.
For this period, Olongapo City has been allotted a total of P30 million, the biggest share to be released.
In Zambales, the town of Subic will receive P18.5 million, while Castillejos will get P10.6 million, San Antonio P10.9 million, and San Marcelino P8.7 million.
In the province of Bataan, meanwhile, Dinalupihan will have P15.6 million, Hermosa P12.7 million, and Morong will get P10.7 million.
According to Garcia, the LGU revenue shares, which are given to communities that are contiguous to and affected by the operations of Subic Bay Freeport, “are intended to augment local resources and enable stakeholder communities to undertake development projects in health, education, peace and order, and livelihood generation.”
The SBMA funds benefit more than 600,000 residents in the contiguous municipalities, Garcia added.
According to the SBMA Treasury Department, the allocation of the LGU revenue shares is determined according to population, which is accorded a 50 percent weight, land area for 25 percent, and equal sharing for another 25 percent.
A retention share of 10 percent is deducted from the actual allocations, but is refunded to the LGUs after a certain period.
Chairman Garcia also said that the 10 percent retained amount from January to June 2013, amounting to P7.5 million, was included in the fund released this period. (RFD/MPD-SBMA)
12 August 2015
Subic cargo volume seen to increase by 40%
“The Subic port continues to do very well this year as we celebrate the anniversary of the New Container Terminal 1 (NCT1), Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority Chairman and Administrator Roberto J. Garcia said in a press conference.
As of July this year, the port of Subic has already hit its target of 73,000 TEUs, way before the peak months from September to December as far as imports are concerned, according to Garcia.
“Again we are going into the heavy months starting September and if the port congestion in Manila persists, we can expect more containers to come to Subic,” Garcia told reporters.
Garcia also welcomed the passage last month of the Cabotage Law (Republic Act No. 10668) that allows foreign vessels to transport and co-load foreign cargo for domestic transshipment and for other purposes, which he said will increase cargo traffic in Subic.
“Under the current arrangement, international sips are allowed to go to only one port of destination. Under the Cabotage Law, they can go to any port – from Subic to Puerto Princesa, to Iligan, wherever,” Garcia explained.
He said he believes the beneficial effect of the new law is that the local shipping lines will be more competitive, and consequently, shipping cost will decrease
“As you know, the Philippines has one of the highest interisland shipping rates, and reports have it that it is more expensive to ship a container from Manila to Davao than from Manila to Singapore,” Garcia said. “It doesn’t make sense, and that is not good for business,” he added.
The SBMA chair also said he followed up with the newly appointed Customs Collector Emelito Aquino his earlier request to send back to the ports of Manila the 15 containers of trash which came from Canada, and that the latter immediately endorsed this request to the Customs Commissioner.
“We made our position very clear – we don’t want that trash here,” he stressed. (Ansbert Joaquin, InterAksyon.com)
PHOTO:
Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority Chairman and Administrator Roberto J. Garcia. (Photo by Ansbert Joaquin)
http://www.interaksyon.com/business/115767/subic-cargo-volume-seen-to-increase-by-40
11 August 2015
Winning smiles aboard ‘USNS Mercy’
All of them had one wish, though – for them to qualify for a free cleft lip and palate surgery courtesy of “Operation Smile.”
For years now, volunteer doctors and medical professionals join Operation Smile to offer themselves for the betterment of the lives of children born with the odd condition. They come together from different corners of the Earth with one mission – to allow a child the full freedom and happiness to smile.
These volunteer professionals have one goal in mind, to give children a reason to smile.
This year’s mission is particularly special for Operation Smile as it is being conducted until August 12 aboard the “USNS Mercy,” the 894-foot long US Navy hospital ship.
The multinational team of Operation Smile volunteer cleft care professionals from 13 countries arrived in Subic Bay Freeport last Wednesday and, since then, buckled down to a five-day free cleft lip and cleft palate surgeries for Filipinos aboard the USNS Mercy.
“Subic is our seventh international mission site this year and this shows just how serious we are at harnessing Operation Smile’s global resources to help eradicate the backlog of cleft cases in the Philippines,” said Operation Smile COO Wayne Zinn, a former US Marine who did a tour at the then Subic Naval Base from 1979 to 1980s.
The Philippines has a high prevalence of cleft births. Every year, an estimated one in every 500 live births or 5,000 babies are born with the deformity. (Jonas Reyes, Manila Bulletin)
PHOTO:
SMILING IN PAIN — A cleft-lipped child manages to smile in the comfort of his mother’s arms as he receives a shot in the arm during the recent screening of children hoping to get a free cleft-lip palate surgery courtesy of volunteer doctors of ‘Operation Smile’ inside the visiting ‘USNS Mercy,’ currently docked at Subic Bay Freeport. (Jonas Reyes)
http://www.mb.com.ph/winning-smiles-aboard-usns-mercy/
10 August 2015
Subic Asian paratriathlon slated August 16
In the race sanctioned by Asian Paralympic Committee and Philspada, the Filipinos will challenge crack paratriathletes from Japan, Malaysia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Hongkong and Korea in designated categories of competitions that will cover 750 meter swim – 18 km bike – 5 km run. Paratriathlon has categories of Tri1, Tri2, Tri3, Tri4, Tri5 and Tri6 for newcomers.
The event supported by the SBMA Tourism Department, Philippine Sports Commission, ASTC, Asian Centre for Insulation Philippines, Gatorade, Speedo, Philippine Olympic Committee, Standard Insurance, DZSR Sports Radio 918, Channel 4’s TeleDyaryo Program, RaceDay, SBR.ph, Kikay Runner and PinoyFitness.com, got a boost as Asian Paralympic Committee CEO and acting secretary general Tarek Souei certified the APC as a Rio 2016 Paralympics qualifier where participants can earn points.
Serving as side event are sprint and mini sprint distances (750M swim-20K bike-5K run and 300m-9km-2.5km) which will be joined by members of the national triathlon and duathlon teams. Each competition will start at the Sands of Triboa and end at San Bernardino Street. Sands of Triboa is also the venue for the awarding ceremony which will take place at 9:30 a.m. Team relays will also be held for most beginners.
Race briefings will be held a day before the race for paratriathlon and sprint and mixed relay participants at the Subic Holiday Villas at 4 p.m. Race packets will be distributed all day at the lobby. A paratriathlon technical course for all officiating staff will be conducted by technical delegate Daniel Sng of Singapore. (The Philippine Star)
http://www.philstar.com/sports/2015/08/10/1486414/subic-asian-paratriathlon-slated-august-16
04 August 2015
US fast attack submarine USS Chicago also in Subic Bay
The USS Chicago, returning to Subic Bay since it last came here in May last year, arrived Monday (August 3) and is seen docked at the Alava Pier along with the USNS Mercy.
With a crew of approximately 170 Sailors, Chicago has been conducting a multitude of missions to showcase the latest capabilities of the submarine fleet.
“It’s an outstanding feeling to see all the hard work the crew invested in maintaining this forward deployed warship rewarded with an outstanding port of call,” said Cmdr. Lance Thompson, Chicago’s commanding officer. “The crew looks forward to experiencing many of the diverse activities the Philippines has to offer.”
Chicago is the first fast-attack submarine to be built with a vertical launch system. This allows the Navy to maintain a constant forward presence capable of strategic action.
“The months leading up to our departure from Guam the crew worked hard to prepare for this underway and have performed well,” said Master Chief Machinist’s Mate Jamie Manzoeillo, the chief of the boat aboard Chicago. “We now look forward to the opportunity to be ambassadors of our great nation and enjoy some well-deserved liberty in one of the finest ports in the Pacific.
For many crew members, this was their first time visiting the Philippines.
“I can’t wait to breathe some fresh air and enjoy some awesome local food,” said Fire Control Technician 3rd Class Ethan Suttles.
Logistics Specialist 1st Class Allendale Basa, a native of the Philippines, was excited to visit family members.
“I’m looking forward to spending some quality time with my family in Olongapo City,” said Basa.
Measuring more than 360 feet long and weighing more than 7,000 tons when submerged, Chicago is one of the most advanced submarines in the world. This submarine is capable of supporting a multitude of missions including intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, and strike.
Chicago is home ported in Guam, where it remains in a forward deployed state of readiness. The ship has finished extensive and continuous maintenance availability, tactical readiness review and recently completed its second mission vital to national security in 2015. (SNL)
PHOTO:
Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Chicago (SSN 721). (Photo file from the US Embassy)
USNS Mercy docks today (August 4) in Subic Port [VIDEO]
The long wait for the floating hospital ship is over. The USNS Mercy (T-AH 19) has docked here at the Alava Pier to undertake a series of missions.
According to the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), a cleft-lip and palate surgical mission will be done aboard the USNS Mercy, sponsored by Operation Smile and the Kapampangan Development Foundation (KDF) in cooperation with Rotary International District 3790.
In line with this, the SBMA Office of the Deputy Administrator for Public Health will be facilitating the screening of potential patients who require cleft-lip and palate surgery at the Subic Gym on August 5, from 7:00 a.m. onwards.
Potential patients should weigh at least 10 kilograms, not undernourished, and free from colds, cough, or fever at the time of the screening, the SBMA ODA for Public Health said.
Interested parties may call or text Mr. Raul Peralta at 0914-888-4545, or the Office of the Deputy Administrator for Public Health and Safety at (047)252-4924/4307.
The surgical mission is as part of Pacific Partnership 2015 (PP15), the largest annual multi-lateral humanitarian assistance and disaster-relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.
The ship’s crew will also conduct Fundamentals of Disaster Management Course on August 5 at the James L. Gordon Memorial Hospital and Basic Life Support Training with personnel from the Philippine Heart Center on August 6 at the Harbor Terminal, Subic Bay.
The USNS Mercy crew will be in Subic Bay until August 12 for the continuing Pacific Partnership expert-exchange events and community relations projects while the ship undergoes routine maintenance at the Subic port.
USNS Mercy last docked here in July 2012. (RFD/MPD-SBMA)
VIDEO:
The USNS Mercy docks at the Alava Pier in Subic Bay Freeport (DMS/MPD-SBMA)
03 August 2015
Ocean Adventure gains custodial rights over stranded dolphins
The open marine water park in Subic Bay, along with the Philippine Marine Mammal Stranding Network (PMMSN), signed a Memorandum of Agreement on July 18 with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Regional Offices 1 & 3 granting such custodial rights to Ocean Adventure.
Covered in the agreement are three dolphins given the nickname "dynamite girls" as they were victims of dynamite fishing that left them with significant hearing impairment. Because of this, they are deemed 'un-releasable' as they may be unable to survive in the wild. The dolphins will now be staying in a safe permanent home at Ocean Adventure.
The PMMSN now has over 3,000 trained BFAR personnel and stakeholders around the country, over 60 veterinarians trained in their medical treatment, and recorded over 620 stranding events to their credit.
Ocean Adventure has responded to 58 of those strandings, and operates the only rehabilitation facility in the country - the Dolphin Rescue Center. (RBB/MPD-SBMA)
PHOTOS:
'Kagitingan' is the latest victim of dynamite fishing and rescued by the PMMSN. She now stays at the Ocean Adventure Dolphin Rescue Center. http://subicnewslink.blogspot.com/2015/06/rescued-dolphin-alive-well-at-ocean.html
Signing of the Memorandum of Agreement. (Standing from left): Nelson Bien, FRMD OIC Reg 3; Dr. Leo Suarez, Treasurer of PMMSN; Carlo Magno, SBMEI VP for Zoo Operations. (Seated from left): Lemnuel Aragones, PMMSN; Mr. Nestor D. Domenden, BFAR Director Region 1; Ms. Gail Laule E. Laule, PMMSN; Mr. Wilfredo M. Cruz BRAF Director Region 3.
Subic Bay Freeport ready for the "big one"
As Metro Manila and other provinces ramp up preparedness in case a high-magnitude earthquake hits the locality, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) undertakes similar preparations through its disaster-response arms, the Subic Bay Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (SBDRRMC) and the SBMA Fire and Rescue Team
In observance of the National Disaster-Consciousness Month, the response teams conducted mock evacuation at the College of Montessori of Subic Bay on July 24. This was followed by a disaster-preparedness orientation and exercise among business locators at the Freeport’s New Container Terminal on July 31.
In the meantime, hundreds of volunteers from different schools, companies, and agencies in the Subic Bay Freeport and neighboring communities joined a coastal clean-up drive along the waterfront on July 25 as part of the campaign to keep the Subic Bay Freeport safe and clean. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)
'Unang Hakbang' towards a brighter future (feature)
Responding to the question, “How can we build a better community?” Redondo Peninsula Energy (RP Energy) believes it is always important to start with the community’s youth.
“We live in a country where parents would starve themselves just to get their kids to school. The Filipino dream always involves children getting a college degree and landing a stable job in the city,” said RP Energy Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Head Victor Persius Chan. “But to a family with income below the poverty line, sending two or three children to school is extremely difficult. When parents are unsure that they can provide their children with an education, their hopes for a better future dwindle.”
Believing that the foundation of a good education starts during the first years of school, RP Energy launched its “Unang Hakbang” (First Steps) CSR initiative with the aim of building and rehabilitating learning hubs for daycare and kindergarten students in Zambales.
So far, the company has provided for the rehabilitation and repair of seven learning hubs. This includes five daycare centers, a kindergarten classroom, and a library in Olongapo City, Subic and Castillejos, all in Zambales. The pilot schools were selected based on merit and need, and through consultations with Local Government Units (LGUs), the Municipal Social Welfare Division (MSWD), and local Department of Education officials.
Clean, Safe, and Conducive Learning Environment
Now, the kids can be safe and stay dry even during the rainy season, thanks to the newly refurbished daycare centers.
“The children can now also use both the toilet and the handwashing station after the installation of a water system. Before, we couldn’t even teach basic hygiene because water was not available,” said Pader.
RP Energy’s CSR team worked hand-in-hand with the teachers, parents, and MSWD officers in maximizing the allotted project budget, choosing storybooks, and designing the classroom layout.
RP Energy made sure that the design of the hubs is inspiring and conducive to learning. Apart from improving the lighting conditions using new LED bulbs, classrooms were also made more colorful and vibrant.
Unang Hakbang hubs were also provided a voluminous set of story books and references. These include books written by award-winning Filipino authors highlighting values education and Philippine culture.
The program also introduced special corners focusing on different subjects, such as Reading, Math, Science, Art, Music, Community, and Personality Corners. Educational materials and even toys were placed in each corner.
Before the initiative, the Asinan Proper-Mapanao daycare center looked more like a rundown and abandoned building than a place of learning. The teacher held classes in a room with unfinished flooring and torn ceilings.
At the end of two weeks of rehabilitation works, Glenda Pascua, the daycare worker, said, “The kids now have a proper play area, and the new slide is a hit. Masayang-masaya sila.”
Responsive
With a growing enrollment of over 300 kindergarten pupils, the Subic Central School has set up a new classroom just to accommodate all enrollees.
“The additional chairs provided by Unang Hakbang really helped us. Our teachers have three shifts per classroom. I am sure that all the materials given to us will be well utilized. We are very grateful to RP Energy,” said Subic Central School Principal Pamela Gatdula.
Subic MSWD Officer Nelly Pagar is optimistic that they will have more five-star daycare centers next year. Daycare centers need to pass a Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) accreditation, and are rated 1 to 5 stars as a means to monitor their effectiveness in child development.
Empowering Teachers
Balaybay Resettlement daycare worker Virgie dela Cruz was already resigned to the bleak situation.
“Napakarami pong kailangang ayusin. Di namin alam kung saan sisimulan. Wala pa kaming budget,” she said.
However, Unang Hakbang’s participatory approach has fomented a change in the attitude of stakeholders.
“They no longer see themselves as mere recipients but also initiators of change. The teachers no longer just complain; they now take charge of the situation whenever and wherever they can,” said Gavina.
Women empowerment
Beyond strengthening the foundations of quality education, Unang Hakbang also aims to promote women empowerment.
By establishing quality daycares where children can be left for a few hours each day, mothers are given time to seek economic opportunities, such as doing part-time work or other productive activities.
Fruitful Partnership
Catillejos Mayor Jose Angelo Dominguez hopes the program will benefit more children especially those from impoverished families.
“Tama ang ating motto: ‘Kayang-kaya, basta’t sama-sama sa tulong ng RP Energy at mga magulang na nagboluntaryong tumulong,” he said.
“This is only the start. We know that with the support of the LGUs, our CSR partners, and the parent-volunteers, we can do so much more,” said Chan. “At RP Energy, we believe that there is a need to invest in relevant CSR programs that focus on the Filipino child – our future education champion, a future CEO, the country’s future leader.”
PHOTOS:
[1] Before and after: Brgy Balaybay Day-care Center, Castillejos Municipality
[2] Before and after: Brgy Asinan Proper Day-care Center, Subic Municipality
[3] Before and after: Brgy. Cawag Day-care Center, Subic Municipality
It is the developer of an environment-friendly and state-of-the-art 600-megawatt coal-fired power plant at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone. The plant is expected to augment the power supply in the Luzon grid when it starts commercial operations.
Katuwang Natin sa Buhay is RP Energy’s umbrella Corporate Social Responsibility program that seeks to establish good stakeholder relations and further community development through initiatives that focus on livelihood and skills development, education, health and sports development, environment and disaster risk management and infrastructure support.
31 July 2015
Hospital ship to bring more smiles to residents of Subic community (UPDATED)
According to the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), the surgical mission will be done aboard the USNS Mercy and will be sponsored by Operation Smile and the Kapampangan Development Foundation (KDF) in cooperation with Rotary International District 3790.
The Pacific Partnership 2015 also provides real-world medical care to thousands of patients, veterinary services, and critical infrastructure development to host nations through multiple engineering projects.
In line with this, the SBMA Office of the Deputy Administrator for Public Health will be facilitating the screening of potential patients who require cleft-lip and palate surgery.
The screening will be held at the Subic Gym on August 5, from 7:00 a.m. onwards.
Potential patients should weigh at least 10 kilograms, not undernourished, and free from colds, cough, or fever at the time of the screening, the SBMA ODA for Public Health said.
Interested parties may call or text Mr. Raul Peralta at 0917-888-4545, or the Office of the Deputy Administrator for Public Health and Safety at (047)252-4924/4307.
The USNS Mercy will arrive in Subic Bay from Roxas City on August 5 to continue is humanitarian mission in the Philippines. It will dock at the Alava Wharf here.
The ship’s crew will also conduct Fundamentals of Disaster Management Course on August 5 at the James L. Gordon Memorial Hospital and Basic Life Support Training with personnel from the Philippine Heart Center on August 6 at the Harbor Terminal, Subic Bay.
The USNS Mercy crew will be in Subic Bay until August 12 for the continuing Pacific Partnership expert-exchange events and community relations projects while the ship undergoes routine maintenance at the Subic port.
Now in its tenth year, the Pacific Partnership missions have provided medical care to approximately 270,000 patients and veterinary services to more than 38,000 animals.
Additionally, the mission has provided critical infrastructure developments to host nations through the completion of more than 180 engineering projects. (RFD/MPD-SBMA)
30 July 2015
Bureau of Immigration caravan in Subic Bay Freeport
25 July 2015
Subic Bay observes disaster consciousness month
22 July 2015
P10B expansion for Subic Port
The ambitious expansion plan will double the present capacity of 600,000 TEUs to 1.2 million TEUs.
At present the Subic port cargo volume averages at 75,000 TEUs or 15 percent of port capacity.
SBMA is now finalizing the terms of reference for the bidding of consultants which will undertake a detailed engineering to expand the container termina.
SBMA said it plans to award the consultancy before the end of the year.
The National Economic and Development Authority is now consolidating comments from various government agencies on the plan.
The new container terminals 1 and 2 in Subic, each with capacity of 300,000 TEUs, are currently operated by International Container Terminal Services Inc. through unit Subic Bay International Terminal Corp. (SBITC), which operates four quay cranes.
SBMA anticipates increased volume of trade in Subic where some of the goods are now being handled to help ease the port congestion felt in Manila.
In two to three years, trade volume in Manila is expected to double to 6 million TEUs from 3 million TEUs at present, the SBMA said.
Of the 3 million TEUs, 15 percent comes from the northern and central Luzon areas, which could otherwise be handled by Subic port.
The ports of Subic and Batangas have been designated by the government as alternative Manila ports due to the port congestion experienced in Manila last year.
SBMA has so far identified another 15-hectare lot for the new port.
In keeping with its strategy of future-proofing its ports, SBITC has recognized the need to expand the port in coordination with SBMA. (Irma Isip, Malaya Business Insight)
PHOTO:
The ports in Subic are currently operating at 15 percent of capacity but SBMA aims to double capacity of the terminals to 1.2 million TEUs.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/business/p10b-expansion-subic-port
USNS Mercy in Subic Bay on Aug. 5 for Pacific Partnership 2015
The Mercy crew is now in Roxas City for the first half of its visit to the country, performing surgical procedures and hosting community health engagements.
Mercy will depart Roxas City on Aug. 4, and transit to Subic Bay to continue its mission in exchanging events and community relations projects. While in Subic Bay, the ship will also undergo routine maintenance.
Capt. Melanie Merrick, commanding officer of the medical treatment facility on board Mercy said, PP15 is such a wonderful opportunity for their medical teams because they get the chance to work side-by-side with the Philippine medical community. "We learn so much from each other and this collaboration strengthens our international partnership and better prepares us to respond to natural disasters throughout the region,” Merrick said.
In addition, the Mercy crew will host partnership events such as a multilateral leadership forum on gender and development, partnered training with Barangay health workers, biomedical repair exchanges, and a disaster risk reduction forum intended to enhance international response to natural disasters.
PP15 participants on the ship and on the ground include personnel from the United States, Australia, South Korea, Malaysia, Japan, and New Zealand. The hospital ship arrived with more than 900 personnel, including volunteers from non-governmental organizations. In addition, several PP15 events will be led by the United States Coast Guard. All PP15 personnel will work together with the Philippine government and local community on various medical, dental, veterinary and civic action projects.
Now in its tenth iteration, Pacific Partnership is the largest annual multilateral humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Asia-Pacific Region. While training for crisis conditions, Pacific Partnership missions have provided medical care to approximately 270,000 patients and veterinary services to more than 38,000 animals. Additionally, the mission has provided critical infrastructure developments to host nations through the completion of more than 180 engineering projects.
“We value the knowledge and best practices we will exchange in the coming weeks and also the friendships we will undoubtedly make,” said Capt. Christopher Engdahl, Pacific Partnership 2015 mission commander. “Preparing for natural disasters before they happen is vital to the stability of the Pacific region. PP15 allows our nations to better prepare now so that we are able to respond and seamlessly integrate during future relief efforts.”
Additional information on the Pacific Partnership mission is available on the U.S. Pacific Fleet Pacific Partnership website at www.cpf.navy.mil/pacific-partnership/2015/.
PHOTO:
USNS Mercy (T-AH-19) is the lead ship of her class of hospital ships in the United States Navy. (wikipedia.org)
https://www.dvidshub.net/news/170326/usns-mercy-arrives-roxas-city-philippines-pacific-partnership#.Va8N5KSqqko
21 July 2015
Filipino, not US, bases to be established in Subic, says SBMA
This was clarified by Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Roberto Garcia in a briefing here amidst concerns raised by militant groups that Subic Bay will again be utilized by United States military forces.
“There is no truth that Subic Bay will again be occupied by US as its military base,” said Garcia.
He said that a 13-hectare space located at the end of the Subic Bay International Airport is all that has been allocated for the Philippine Air Force for the 12 fighter-trainer FA-50 jets to be acquired from South Korea.
In addition, the Alava Pier and Riviera Wharf here will be used by the Philippine Navy, which is transferring its major operation from Sangley Point in Cavite due to depth issues.
Garcia also added that because the proposed base will be established under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), US planes and ships are expected to call on Subic on a rotational basis.
Under EDCA, the Philippine government will allow US to build structures, store and position weapons, defense supplies and materiel, station troops, civilian personnel and defense contractors, transit and station vehicles, vessels, and aircraft for a period of 10 years.
The SBMA chairman believes that Subic Bay is the most strategic port in the country facing the West Philippine Sea that could be used to deploy navy and air forces in case of emergencies.
He said that two more countries — Australia and Japan — have expressed interest in entering into an agreement with the Philippine government for a similar Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) for the conduct of military training and exercises with the Philippine counterparts.
Garcia said that while the constitutionality of EDCA has been questioned before the Supreme Court, “It is coming to a point when you take a stand.”
He added that in the situation when a local fishing ground like the Panatag Shoal, which gives food and earnings to many Filipinos, is being intruded upon by foreign fishermen, “We have to take a stand.”
He stressed that SBMA will always cooperate with the national government in the interest of national security.
When asked if the locators might be hampered by the proposed military installations here, Garcia responded that nothing had been changed except that the locators are happy to hear of the proposal.
“Makikinabang din po kasi sila, especially those in the aircraft-related service providers, such as aircraft maintenance, fuel, catering, and others,” he said.
He also announced that among the preconditions of the agreement was that military installations should not prejudice the interest of the locators and that the priority that will be given to the military for the use of the facilities inside the Freeport would only be in time of national emergencies. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)
PHOTO:
-An FA-50 light combat aircraft from South Korea (left). The Philippines has purchased 12 of these estimated to be worth US$422 million and will be stationed in Subic Bay. (photo by globalaviationreport.com)
-Philippine frigates BRP Gregorio Del Pilar (middle) and BRP Ramon Alcaraz (right)
(c/o navaltoday.com & wikipedia,org)
11 Filipino fishermen rescued by US Navy safe - SBMA
Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Roberto V. Garcia said the fishermen were rescued early Monday morning (July 20) by the crew of the USNS Impeccable while in transit to Subic Bay.
Capt. Robert Wiechert of the USNS Impeccable said in a report that while en route to the port of Subic, they spotted lights and people waving from a floundering small vessel at around 6:00 pm on Sunday.
Despite the prevailing rough waters, the American ship was able to maneuver closer to the capsized vessel four hours after and launched a rescue boat that took in the distressed fishermen. All 11 were brought to the Impeccable and given medical attention, food and clean clothing.
Garcia said that once in the Subic Freeport, the rescued fishermen were attended to by SBMA medical officers who determined that they only sustained minor injuries from the incident.
The rescued fishers were identified as Fernando R. Rebata; Jay-R A. Encarguez; Daniel B. Canaway; Wilson E. Etak; Jerry T. Oliviero; Armando D. Polo; Rueben M. Lebios; Vergel A. Ecarges; Charlie R. Dumaz; Eddie V. Benveniga; all from Barangay Cato, Infanta, Pangasinan, and Ariel P. Balaquit of Barangay Naulo, Santa Cruz, Zambales.
The USNS Impeccable, an ocean surveillance ship of the U.S. Navy assigned to Military Sealift Command's Special Missions Program, is now docked at the Boton Wharf of the Subic Bay Freeport. (RBB/MPD-SBMA)
PHOTOS:
[1] Local fishermen disembark from the USNS Impeccable at the Boton Wharf after they were rescued by the crew of the USNS Impeccable 90 miles from the coast of Subic, Zambales. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)
[2] The SBMA medical and rescue team, along with SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator Randy Escolango (4th from left), attend to the rescued fishermen upon arrival at the Subic Bay Freeport. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)
17 July 2015
PHL to station warplanes, frigates at Subic, facing disputed South China Sea
Using Subic Bay would allow the Philippine air force and navy to respond more effectively to Chinese moves in the disputed South China Sea, security experts said. Subic Bay's deep-water harbor lies on the western side of the main Philippine island of Luzon, opposite the South China Sea.
"The value of Subic as a military base was proven by the Americans. Chinese defense planners know that," said Rommel Banlaoi, a Philippine security expert.
Once one of the biggest U.S. naval facilities in the world, Subic Bay was shut in 1992 after the Philippine Senate terminated a bases agreement with Washington at the end of the Cold War.
Manila converted the facility, which was never home to the Philippine military, into an economic zone.
Defense Undersecretary Pio Lorenzo Batino told Reuters the Philippine military signed an agreement in May with the zone's operator, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, to use parts of the installation under a renewable 15-year lease.
U.S. warships have called regularly at Subic Bay since 2000, but only to dock during exercises with the Philippine military or to use its commercial facilities for repairs and resupply.
Officials said once Subic Bay was a military base again, the U.S. Navy could have much greater access to it under a year-old agreement that gives U.S. troops broad use of local military facilities, although that deal is on ice after it was challenged in the Philippine Supreme Court.
Using Subic would be the latest Philippine military move to combat China's maritime ambitions.
Besides beefing up security cooperation with the United States, Japan and Vietnam, the military plans to spend $20 billion over the next 13 years to modernize its armed forces, among the weakest in Southeast Asia.
China, which claims nearly all of the South China Sea, said it was aware of reports of the arms buildup.
"We hope that the Philippines does more to benefit regional peace and stability," the defence ministry said in a statement faxed to Reuters.
AIR WING RELOCATING
Two FA-50 light attack fighters made by Korea Aerospace Industries, the first among a dozen ordered last year, would be based at the former Cubi Naval Station in Subic Bay from early 2016, two Philippine generals told Reuters. The two planes arrive in December.
The full squadron of FA-50s would be based at Subic, as well as the 5th Fighter Wing, which would relocate from a rundown base in northern Luzon, said the generals, who declined to be identified.
Two naval frigates would be stationed at Subic Bay's Alava Port.
The generals cited proximity to the South China Sea and the ease in making the base operational as reasons for the move.
"There are existing facilities in Subic Bay. We need only to refurbish them," one officer said.
Since Subic Bay hasn't functioned as a military base for more than two decades, it was not among eight locations the Philippine armed forces has said the U.S. military could use under the stalled 2014 defence deal.
The Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement would allow the U.S. military to deploy at Philippine bases for longer periods than under existing accords as well as build barracks and facilities for logistics purposes.
The agreement has been frozen since left-wing politicians challenged its constitutionality last year. The Supreme Court is expected to issue a ruling in the coming months.
"(Subic) could be one of the locations ... under the Enhanced Defence Cooperation Agreement," Batino said.
The Pentagon has said there were informal talks about Philippine base locations but that no plans would be implemented until the Supreme Court issues a ruling.
STRATEGIC SHOAL
Security experts noted that Subic Bay is only 145 nautical miles (270 km) from Scarborough Shoal, which China seized from Manila in 2012 after a three-month standoff with the Philippine navy.
The disputed Spratly islands, where China is building seven man-made islands, some with military facilities, lie further to the southwest of the shoal.
China might one day also turn Scarborough Shoal into an artificial island, which could make it harder for the Philippines to protect its 200-nautical mile (370 km) exclusive economic zone off Luzon, said Patrick Cronin, a regional expert at the Center for a New American Security in Washington.
"New Korean-built light fighter aircraft could reach Scarborough Shoal in just minutes, and maritime patrol aircraft or drones could eventually provide persistent coverage of Chinese movements in the area," Cronin said.
"A return to Subic Bay, this time led by the Philippine air force, would seem to be a prudent defensive response." (Manuel Mogato, Reuters)
PHOTO:
The guided missile cruiser ship USS Shiloh (CG-67) recently docked at the Alava pier of Subic Bay Freeport zone. The US ship is equipped with guided missiles and rapid-fire cannons and also carries two multi-purpose helicopters for anti-submarine warfare. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/522950/news/nation/phl-to-station-warplanes-frigates-at-subic-facing-disputed-south-china-sea
16 July 2015
San Diego Fil-Am Chamber of Commerce visits Subic Bay
SBMA starts bi-annual one-stop shop Business Registration
A joint effort among the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, Subic Bay Freeport Chamber of Commerce, and different line agencies, the bi-annual project aims to provide locators the convenience of having multiple needs met at a single location. Also in photo are Stefani Saño, SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator for Business and Investment, and Kenneth Rementilla, manager of Business and Investment Department for Leisure. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)
15 July 2015
SBMA partners with private firms for mangrove reforestation
According to SBMA Chairman Roberto Garcia, five business locators here and two schools from as far as Manila and La Union, have already participated in the agency’s mangrove restoration program since it was launched by the SBMA Ecology Center early this year.
The program has resulted in the planting of about 300 mangrove propagules, as well as a total of 130 nipa seedlings, with survival rates averaging at 70 percent in most planting areas in the Subic Bay Freeport.
Garcia said the program has gained much support from local stakeholders and visitors because the reforestation project is complemented by an Information, Education and Communication (IEC) campaign to help increase public appreciation of mangroves and their role in biodiversity.
“Once people learn that mangroves are not just putrid swampy areas, but in fact serve as home and breeding places for a large variety of fish, crab, shrimp and shells, they volunteer their help in planting and cleaning the mangrove areas here,” Garcia said.
“And because of the importance of mangroves not only in food production, but also in coastal protection and tourism, we hope to engage more and more companies and private groups in keeping the mangroves in Subic healthy and well,” the SBMA official added.
“Since February this year, the SBMA Ecology Center has undertaken several mangrove planting, cleanups, IEC tours, and species identification projects in partnership with companies and schools,” said Rhea Jane Mallari, a senior forest management specialist of the SBMA Ecology Center.
These include the International School of Manila, which planted “busain” and “piapi” species of mangrove; Subic Golf, which planted nipa seedlings for erosion control; Aikon Subic and Orica, which both undertook planting and IEC activities; Petron Corporation and Hitachi Mechatronics, both for planting and cleanup; and Don Mariano Marcos State University in La Union, which planted mangrove and helped in species identification and phenology.
Mallari said that most of the trees planted by the program participants had survived, although the Ecology Center and its partners “are still in the process of learning the best practices in mangrove restoration.”
“There is so much to be done, and in this regard we are seeking more partners and supporters to help us establish and operate a mangrove nursery,” Mallari said.
Lilia Alcazar, chief of the SBMA Ecology Center’s Protected Area Division, said the nursery project is important because nursery-raised mangrove seedlings have better-established root systems, and hence,higher survival rates.
The Center is also hoping for assistance in patrolling the mangrove areas here to discourage encroachment and indiscriminate harvesting of mangrove forest products.
Alcazar added that aside from raising public awareness on the importance of mangrove ecosystems, the Center’s Mangrove IEC and Restoration Program seeks to encourage stakeholders in joining the conduct of mangrove management strategies, the protection and maintenance of the integrity of mangrove forests, and the conduct of research and ecologically-sound activities in mangrove areas at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone. (HEE/MPD-SBMA)
PHOTOS:
[1] Members of the SBMA Ecology Center’s mangrove restoration team harvest mangrove wildlings for transplanting at the Binictican-Malawaan mangrove forest in the Subic Bay Freeport.(AMD/MPD-SBMA)
[2] SBMA senior forest management specialist Rhea Jane Mallari (left) leads the Ecology Center mangrove restoration team in harvesting wildlings for transplanting at the Binictican-Malawaan mangrove forest in the Subic Bay Freeport. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)
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