First visit to PH after 15 years: Japanese submarine to make port call in Subic Bay

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Japan's Maritime Self-Defense Force plans to send one of its submarines to the Philippines for a port call next month to Subic Bay, a Defense Ministry source said Sunday.

While the envisaged voyage is aimed at training MSDF officers and fostering goodwill with the Philippines, Japan is keen to help Southeast Asian countries improve their surveillance capabilities in the South China Sea where China is pursuing militarization.

The plan is for a submarine to leave Japan together with two destroyers in the latter half of this month, the source said.

The vessels are scheduled to cross Bashi Channel between Taiwan and the Philippines, and dock at Subic Bay, north of Manila, in April, according to the source.

The destroyers will then proceed to make a port call to Cam Ranh Bay in Vietnam.

The Japanese government is also considering leasing a number of MSDF TC-90 training aircraft to the Philippines, according to government sources.

China claims almost the entire South China Sea and has competing territorial claims with Vietnam, the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia and Taiwan. (The Manaichi)

http://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20160306/p2g/00m/0in/046000c

Japanese submarine to visit Philippines

A Japanese submarine will visit the Philippines for the first time in 15 years, along with two warships that will then sail on to Vietnam, in a show of support for nations opposed to China’s ambitions in the West Philippine Sea, a person familiar with the matter said.

The Japanese submarine, which is used for training, and the destroyers will arrive in the Philippines in April. The escort vessels will later sail to Vietnam’s strategic Cam Ranh Bay base on the West Philippine Sea, the source said.

“It sends a message. It is important for Japan to show its presence,” the person with knowledge of the plan said on Monday, March 7, 2016. He asked not to be identified because he was not authorized to talk to the media.

A Japanese Ministry of Defense spokesman declined to comment on any submarine visit but said the navy normally conducted training voyages in March and April.

“But we are still in the planning stage so are unable to provide details,” he said.

The visits were first reported by Japanese media, including the Sankei newspaper, on March 6.

Asked about the visits, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said Japan occupied the Spratly Islands during World War Two so China was on “high alert” for Japan’s military moves there.

“The cooperation of relevant countries should benefit regional stability and should not be directed at third parties or harm another country’s sovereignty or security interests,” he told a daily news briefing in Beijing.

Of the countries bordering the West Philippine Sea or South China Sea, the Philippines and Vietnam are most opposed to China expanding its influence in the region by building bases on reclaimed islands.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) had not received any official notification of a visit by a Japanese submarine, a military spokesman said, though a visit to the Subic Bay naval base was expected.

“Informally, we know a Japanese submarine is visiting Subic in April,” said the AFP spokesman, Brigadier-General Restituto Padilla.

Rather than confronting China in such a direct way, Japan instead wants to build the capacity of nations in the region to improve their surveillance of Chinese forces. Japan’s Minister of Defense Gen Nakatani is due to travel to the Philippines in April to discuss cooperation.

Japan has already offered to supply the Philippines with aircraft that will help bolster patrols over the disputed sea. Japan wants to give the Philippines a handful of Beechcraft TC-90 King Air training planes that could be fitted with basic surface and air surveillance radar.

The Philippines has also asked the United States to hold joint naval patrols.

Japan and Vietnam agreed in November to hold their first joint naval exercise.

The United States has no claim on the West Philippine Sea and said it takes no sides, though it has been highly critical of China’s assertiveness and said it will protect freedom of navigation. (Reuters)

PHOTO:

The Uzushio submarine of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) bursts to the surface during a fleet review at Sagami Bay, off Yokosuka, south of Tokyo, October 18, 2015. (Reuters/Toru Hanai)

http://www.reuters.com/article/us-southchinasea-japan-philippines-idUSKCN0W90RH

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Pinoy Aquaman and triathlon legend conquer Subic Bay

INGEMAR Macarine, also known as the Pinoy Aquaman, completed his 20th successful open-water swim when he and his partner, legendary Filipino triathlete Frank Lacson, conquered the 10.38-kilometer stretch of Subic Bay Sunday morning.

The calm seas helped Macarine and Lacson as they made their way though the waters of Subic Bay with ease when they started their swim around 6 a.m.

According to Macarine, the sea was perfect unlike his previous swims, where the sea was rough. But he said he and Lacson still had difficulties because they were swimming against the current. Still, they managed to finish their task in a faster time.

They completed their swim from Grande Island in Bataan to Barrio Barreto in Olongapo City in Zambales in three hours and 47 minutes.

It was actually a double celebration for Macarine as it was also his son’s birthday.

This open-water swim of Macarine and Lacson was for a charitable cause. It was done for the benefit of the Bicycle Friendly Philippines, a group that helps families that lost loved ones due to cycling accidents.

The swim also served as part of Macarine’s preparations for his attempt to conquer the English Channel from London to France, spanning a distance of 35 km, this August. (Glendale G. Rosal, Cebu Daily News)

PHOTO:

Pinoy Aquaman Ingemar Macarine and Frank "the legend" Lacson traversing Subic Bay from Grande Island to Bo. Barretto in Olongapo City. (photos from Macarine's FB page)

http://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/88463/88463

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Alexander conquers Ironman 70.3, Borlain sisters rule in Ironkids

The Craig Alexander Show finally unfurled in the Century Tuna Ironman 70.3 Subic Bay Pilipinas race.

Determined to complete an unfinished business in the race that he agonizingly missed last year due to injury, five-time world titlist Alexander put his legendary skills on display and claimed the coveted men’s pro crown at the expense of younger rivals.

The 42 year-old Alexander unleashed a blistering windup that left pacesetter Patrick Lange in his wake, surging past the German at the 13-kilometer mark of the run and maintaining at least a 400-meter lead en route to topping the $15,000 world championships-qualifying race in 3:48:56.

Lange, who led most of the way, checked in nearly two seconds later at the finish line in front of the Subic Convention Center. Last year’s winner Tim Reed of Australia also fell under Alexander spell and settled for the bronze in 3:52:28.

It was a triumph that was one-year-in-the-making at the former US base for Alexander. The veteran Australian triathlete fondly called “Crowie” was supposed to make his debut in Subic in 2015 but a bad back forced him to pull out at the last minute.

“I was determined to put up a good performance to repay Fred (Uytengsu of organizer Sunrise Events, Inc.). He’s always inviting me to be in their events and when I finally came last year, I wasn’t able to make it on the starting line,” said Alexander. “Hopefully I made up for that today.”

Alexander trailed after the 1.9K swim and 90K bike phases but shifted to high gear in the culminating 21K run. (Olmin Leyba, Philippine Star)

Borlain sisters pull off rare triathlon hat-trick in 2016 Alaska Ironkids

The Borlain Sisters accomplished a rare triathlon hat-trick as they swept their respective age categories in the 2016 Alaska Ironkids held at Subic Bay Freeport on Saturday.

Samantha Borlain, the eldest of the three, topped the 13-14 year-old girl’s category while her sister Tara finished first in the 11-12 age group, and youngest sister Franchezka, 8, was the fastest in the 6-8 age group.

Samantha and Tara even reportedly encountered problems with their bikes during the first transition of the 400-meter swim, 12 km bike and 3 km run course, but managed to make up for lost time in the bike and run stages.

The sisters, along with all first place finishers at Remy Field, were awarded with all-expense trips to Cebu to compete in Ironman Cebu this August.

Their father Ringo, a former competitive bodybuilder and current national team coach, was naturally pleased with the feat of his daughters who he personally trained. But he was quick to point out that he would have been happy regardless of their finish as long as his girls enjoyed the experience.

“Number one you have fun. Always you have to have fun. If it’s not fun let’s not do this,” he told SPIN.ph after the race.

That aspect was evident with the way they supported and cheered for each other during the entire race, until the last sister crossed the finish line.

“They help each other by pushing each other,” explained their mom Caroline.

“They have this inner desire. I don’t know where they got it… bata pa lang sila ganoon na,” added Ringo. (Rhoel V Fernandez, Spin.ph)

PHOTOS:

[1] Triathletes start the 1.9km swim phase of the Century Tuna 70.3 Subic Bay Pilipinas. (Jun Mendoza, PhilStar)

[2] Samantha, Tara and Franchezka celebrate at the podium. (Jaime Campos, Spin.ph)

http://www.philstar.com/sports/2016/03/07/1560297/great-alexander-conquers-ironman-70.3

http://www.spin.ph/triathlon/active-lifestyle/borlain-sisters-are-big-winners-in-2016-alaska-ironkids-in-subic-

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PHL waits for UN response on impounded North Korean ship

THE Philippine coast guard said it was closely watching a North Korean vessel and its 21 crew members on Sunday, as officials waited for a response from the United Nations days after the ship was seized in compliance with new sanctions.

The 6,830-ton cargo ship, the Jin Teng, is being held at Subic port, northeast of Manila, where the Philippine coast guard is guarding the freighter and monitoring its crew, said coast guard spokesman Commander Armand Balilo.

“We will probably keep it in Subic pending our request for guidance on its disposition,” he said.

The ship’s 21 North Korean crew members remain onboard but are otherwise not restricted, he told AFP.

“They are just on the ship. They are remaining there. They have provisions of their own. They won’t try to escape,” Mr. Balilo said, adding there was no need to provide them with any supplies yet.

Earlier this week, a government spokesman said the North Koreans would eventually be deported, but there has been no confirmation when that would take place.

The Philippines said on Saturday, authorities had impounded the vessel in accordance with fresh UN sanctions introduced in the wake of Pyongyang’s recent nuclear and ballistic missile tests.

It was the first reported enforcement of the sanctions, the toughest to date, which were adopted late Wednesday by the UN Security Council.

Mr. Balilo said the coast guard has inspected the ship twice, once using electronic sensors to search for weapons. However, no contraband has been found.

A team from the UN is expected to inspect the ship in Subic, a former United States naval base, foreign affairs spokesman Charles Jose said earlier.

The Jin Teng arrived in the Philippines from Palembang, Indonesia, on Thursday afternoon, just hours after the latest sanctions were unanimously passed.

In response to the UN’s move, Pyongyang fired six short-range missiles into the sea on Thursday, while North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un ordered its nuclear arsenal put on standby for pre-emptive use at any time. (AFP)

PHOTO:
This general view shows the North Korean cargo ship Jin Teng, anchored at the former US naval base at Subic port, north of Manila, on March 4. (AFP)

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Philippines impounds North Korean ship under UN sanctions

The Philippines said on Saturday it had impounded a North Korean vessel in response to tough new United Nations sanctions introduced in response to Pyongyang's recent nuclear and ballistic missile tests.

The 6,830-tonne cargo ship Jin Teng will not be allowed to leave Subic port, northeast of the capital Manila, where it had been docked for three days and its crew will be deported, presidential spokesman Manolo Quezon said on state-run radio station Radyo ng Bayan.

It was the first reported case of the sanctions -- the toughest to date, which were adopted late Wednesday by the UN Security Council -- being enforced.

"The world is concerned over North Korea's nuclear weapons programme and as a member of the UN, the Philippines has to do its part to enforce the sanctions," Quezon said.

A team from the UN is expected to inspect the ship in the port, located near a former United States naval base, foreign affairs spokesman Charles Jose said.

Jose told AFP the ship was impounded "in compliance with the UN resolution" and did not depend on the results of the inspections.

The Jin Teng, carrying palm kernels, was searched for the second time on Saturday, this time using electronic weapons sensors, coastguard spokesman Commander Armand Balilo told AFP, adding the 21 crewmen were "very cooperative".

Balilo said no explosives, drugs or banned substances have been found so far.

North Korea has no embassy in the Philippines. Its embassies in Thailand and Indonesia were unavailable for comment when contacted by AFP.

There are no other North Korean ships docked in Subic, according to the coastguard.

The Jin Teng arrived in Subic from Palembang, Indonesia Thursday afternoon, just hours after the latest sanctions were unanimously passed.

In response to the UN's move, Pyongyang fired six short-range missiles into the sea on Thursday, while North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un ordered its nuclear arsenal put on standby for pre-emptive use at any time.

On Friday, the European Union also tightened sanctions against North Korea by adding 16 people and 12 entities to a list of some 60 individuals and groups who were hit with travel bans and asset freezes. (AFP News)

PHOTO:
The cargo ship Jin Teng will not be allowed to leave Subic port, where it had been docked for three days and its crew will be deported.

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SBMA Ok’s GigaMare training center in Subic Freeport

Further boosting the thriving maritime business here, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) recently signed a lease contract with GigaMare, Inc. for the establishment of a training center for maritime and other offshore safety short-term courses.

SBMA Chairman Roberto Garcia, who signed the agreement with GigaMare president and CEO Jari M. Ullakonoja, said that the new training center project also manifests Subic’s efforts to become a major maritime logistics hub in the region by.

Walden Tantuico, GigaMare’s chairman of the board, said the firm will establish, operate, and manage a training center designed for short courses in maritime, power plant, and offshore oil, gas, and mining industries.

He added that the center will utilize audio-visual simulator facilities, information technology, computers, and other equipment to provide the necessary actual training for maritime cadets.
Under the contract signed by Garcia and Ullakonoja, GigaMare has committed to infuse over P60 million for its seven-year development program, which includes the provision of 12 scholarship grants (including two slots for SBMA) per year starting academic year 2016-2017.

GigaMare Inc., which was established in March 2013, took over the operations of Wärtsilä Corporation, which conducted similar training operations in the Philippines. GigaMare also took over Wärtsilä’s training infrastructure located in a four-building complex at the Ilanin forest in Subic Bay Freeport.

In signing the contract, Garcia noted that the Port of Subic is becoming a model for many ports in the country in terms of innovations and marketing strategies, which has resulted in greater revenue growth for the SBMA sea port.

Garcia also said the Subic agency plans to develop a well-managed sea logistics hub for joint civilian and military use, utilizing the full capacity of sea port facilities here like the former Naval Supply Depot (NSD) and the New Container Terminal (NCT).

By putting the plan in place, the Port of Subic will become the preferred logistics gateway in Northern and Central Luzon, including the Greater Manila Area, by year 2020, Garcia also said.(RAV/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTOS:

[1] SBMA Chairman Roberto V.Garcia signs an agreement with GigaMare Inc. President and CEO Jari M.Ullakonoja for the establishment and operation of a maritime training center in Subic Bay Freeport. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

[2] SBMA Chairman Roberto V.Garcia shakes hand with Gigamare Inc. President and CEO Jari M. Ullakonoja after signing an agreement for the establishment and operation of a maritime training center in Subic Bay Freeport. GigaMare Chairman Walden Tantuico (left) and SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator for Business Stefani Saño witnessed the signing. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

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Triathletes help release pawikan hatchlings in Subic Bay

Participants in the upcoming Century Tuna 70.3 Triathlon take time off from training to help release into the sea Olive Ridley sea turtle hatchlings in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, ​last ​Wednesday morning, along with Environment Specialist Rhea Jane Mallari (center in blue shirt) of the SBMA Ecology Center.

Around 150 newly-hatched Olive Ridleys, which are among the endangered species of sea turtles or “pawikan”, ​have been​ released at Dungeree Beach, which will be the kick-off site for the Century Tuna 70.3 Triathlon on Sunday, March 6.

(AMD/MPD-SBMA)

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North Korean cargo ship inspected in Subic Bay

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine coast guard inspected a North Korean cargo vessel that docked at a port northwest of Manila in one of the first such checks since the U.N. Security Council imposed further sanctions on Pyongyang over its nuclear program.

The MV Jin Teng was inspected in Subic Bay, a former U.S.-run naval base, after it arrived Thursday from Balembang, Indonesia, loaded with palm kernel expeller, Coast Guard Commander Raul Belesario said Friday.

Belesario, who heads the port control division that includes Subic, said five coast guard personnel accompanied by two bomb sniffer dogs boarded the vessel Thursday. The inspectors did not find any suspicious materials but spotted minor deficiencies including missing fire hoses, a corroded air vent, and electrical switches without insulation.

Another inspection will be done before the ship sails for southwestern China’s Zhanjiang port, and the ship will only be allowed to depart if the deficiencies have been rectified, he added. The vessel’s departure date is unclear.

As of Friday, cargo was still being unloaded from the ship. Palm kernel expeller is a byproduct of palm oil production and has several uses, including as feed for farm animals.

The ship’s documents showed the cargo was for consignees in the Philippines and no new cargo would be loaded at Subic Bay, Belesario said.

The Security Council on Wednesday unanimously approved the toughest sanctions on North Korea in two decades, reflecting growing anger at Pyongyang’s latest nuclear test and rocket launch in defiance of a ban on all nuclear-related activity.

The United States and North Korea’s traditional ally China spent seven weeks negotiating the new sanctions. They include mandatory inspections of cargo leaving and entering North Korea by sea or air, a ban on all sales or transfers of small arms and light weapons to Pyongyang, and expulsion of diplomats from the North who engage in “illicit activities.” (Associated Press)

PHOTO:
Crewmen of the North Korean cargo vessel Jin Teng stand on the middle of the deck as it unloads its cargo while docked at Subic Bay, in Zambales province, northwest of Manila, Philippines, Friday, March 4, 2016. The Philippine coast guard inspected a North Korean cargo vessel that docked at a port northwest of Manila in one of the first such checks since the U.N. Security Council imposed further sanctions on Pyongyang over its nuclear program. (AP Photo/Jun Dumaguing)

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SBMA earnings increased by 12% to P1.7B in 2015

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has posted a total of P1.7 billion in earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) in the previous year, thereby allowing the Subic agency not only to sustain its operations but also to fund more development projects in the Subic Bay Freeport.

SBMA Chairman Roberto Garcia, comparing the agency’s EBITDA in the last two years, said that the P1.7 billion earnings last year represented an increase of 11.89 per cent over the P1.5 billion record in 2014.

“This positive inflow permitted us to undertake several infrastructure projects that were designed to improve the attractiveness of the Freeport to investors,” Garcia said.

“The more we improve the Freeport, the more we earn; and the more we earn, the more we can afford further developments,” he added.

Garcia said that the 2015 earnings of P1.7 billion was derived from a total of P2.75 billion in operating revenue, less the P1.05 billion total in operating expenses.

He attributed the increase to the 12.8 per cent increase in operating revenues despite the 14.4 per cent increase in total expenditures in the same period.

According to a year-end report from the SBMA Finance Group, the SBMA posted operating revenues of P1.34 billion derived from leases; P933 million from port services; P12.6 million from tourism services; and P466.2 million from other operating incomes.

Meanwhile, the agency incurred operating expenses of P266.4 million in manpower; and P784.3 million in maintenance and other operating expenses.

As of December 31, 2015, the agency’s net income after depreciation and FOREX stood at P1.6 billion. However, a 109 per cent loss on foreign exchange pulled the income before tax down to P1.1 billion, Garcia explained.

In 2013, the SBMA under Garcia shattered its all-time record by posting P1.2 billion in net profit, along with the highest gross revenue of P2.1 billion and the highest EBITDA of P992 million in the 21-year history of the Subic institution.

The present SBMA administration headed by Garcia has been largely credited for turning around the agency’s financial standing from several years of non-profitability to attaining record earnings starting 2012.

Garcia said the SBMA continues to equal, if not surpass, its previous financial condition by attracting more investments into the Freeport. (RFD/MPD-SBMA)

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Redondo Peninsula to stagger construction of Subic power plant

MANILA, Philippines – Redondo Peninsula Energy Inc. (RP Energy) will phase the construction of its 600-megawatt (MW) coal-fired power plant in Subic pending the resolution of its transmission problems.

RP Energy is a consortium composed of Meralco Power Gen (MGen), Aboitiz Power Corp. and Taiwan Cogeneration International Corp.

The consortium has been evaluating whether to push through with the whole 600 MW in one go or to phase it due to issues in the capacity transmission facilities.

When asked for updates on the project, Meralco chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan said “the latest word is that we might phase it.”

“(We will start with) 300-MW first and then (another 300 MW) to 600-MW, depending on our capability to interconnect with NGCP (National Grid Corp. of the Philippines). If that takes a few months, then it’s just a few months before we can start the Phase 2,” Pangilinan said.

Construction of the 600-MW coal-fired power plant is targeted in the first quarter of this year and completion in the second half of 2019. (Danessa Rivera, The Philippine Star)

http://www.philstar.com/business/2016/03/03/1558805/redondo-peninsula-stagger-construction-subic-power-plant

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Subic to Boracay Race 2016: Jelik steals thunder from Centennial III

Top contender Jelik, skippered by Hongkong’s Frank Pong, drew first blood as the foreign entries dominated the 7th Standard Insurance Subic Bay to Boracay Race, defeating last year’s champion TP 52 Davidson Centennial III of Judes Echauz.

Reichel/Pugh 75 Jelik, last year’s runner-up, ruled the IRC Racing Class with a corrected time of 28 hours, 19 minutes and 46 seconds in the 210-nautical mile of the event presented by PLDT SME Nation, Tanduay Rum, Cebu Pacific, The Lighthouse Marina Resort, Watercraft Ventures Inc. and Seawind Hotel Boracay.

Defending champion Centennial III came in second in 30:29:37 while Smith 72-Custom Antipodes steered by Geoff Hill, took third place in 30:40:30.

The big start thus gave Jelik a solid jump-off in the combined series of the four-day Boracay Cup Regatta that started Tuesday morning from this pristine beach resort to Carabao Island off Romblon and back.

Pong, the 2013 Asian Yatching Grand Prix Skipper of the Year and 1997 President’s Cup Champion, outclassed 15 other elite sailors from Asian countries, Australia, Germany and China, including record holder Syd Fisher’s Dubios 90 Ragamuffin 90 manned by David Witt. (Tribune Wires)

PHOTO:
The 75-foot boat Jelik.

http://www.tribune.net.ph/sports/jelik-steals-thunder-from-centennial-iii

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SBMA to spend P21 million for SBECC renovation

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) is spending around P21 million to complete the renovation of the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC) here in time for the conduct of the 2016 Ad Summit Pilipinas next week.

SBMA Chairman Roberto Garcia, who personally guided the media in a tour of the facility on Friday, said the SBECC repair is the most important project that SBMA is completing to date as it gears up for the influx of visitors during the summer season.

“There were some feedback last year that SBECC facilities like comfort rooms and meeting rooms fell short of expectations of a world-class convention and exhibition center, so we’re making sure that SBECC is now up to standards,” Garcia said.

Garcia pointed out during the tour that the finishing touches being in the SBECC building, as well as the landscaping outside, make it feel like a top-notch hotel, a distinction that could bring in more customers. “As you can see, we’re still doing some renovation, but already there is a convention going on. A lot of companies have been inquiring on when they can use the facility,” he added.

The SBECC, which will host the Ad Summit for the second consecutive staging, is regarded as the crown jewel that earned for Subic the honor of being the “Premier Convention Capital of Central Luzon” in 2012.

Along with the popular nature-theme parks here, as well as the seaside hotels and shopping centers, SBECC was also instrumental in Subic’s recognition by the Department of Tourism as the No. 1 Tourist Destination in Region 3 for the past two consecutive years.

Garcia said that in order to keep Subic’s titles, the SBMA has already implemented major face-lift projects in most tourism facilities and infrastructures here “to make sure that Subic Bay Freeport would be ready for the big volume of tourists arriving during summer, especially this Holy Week.”

Referring to reports from the SBMA Tourism Department, Garcia said that tourist arrivals in Subic reached 7.3 million in 2015, an increase of 14 percent over the 6.4-million record in 2014.

He also noted that tourists who actually stayed overnight or for several days in Subic reached 1.43 million in 2015, or 21-percent higher than the 1.18 million recorded in 2014.

Garcia added that the SBMA is now refurbishing all the road features in Subic, and placing police and travelers-assistance outposts in strategic areas, in time for the summer season.

Meanwhile, tourism-related businesses are also making necessary renovations and upgrading their facilities, he added. (Henry Empeño, BusinessMirror)

PHOTO:
The Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC) undergoing major renovations in time for Ad Summit Pilipinas 2016 (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/sbma-to-spend-p21-million-for-sbecc-renovation/

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Ragamuffin sets pace in Subic-Boracay race

Syd Fisher’s Dubois 90 Ragamuffin, skippered by David Witt, set the pace in the seventh Standard Insurance Subic Bay-Boracay Regatta Race in Aklan yesterday.

Taking only 14 hours, 23 minutes, 17 seconds on the 220 nautical mile race, Ragamuffin bested the previous record set by Hong Kong magnate Frank Pong’s Custom Dibley 75 Jelik in 2013.

With its crew of 14, Ragamuffin led the fleet out of Subic Bay, where they dropped the spinnakers, turned left and enjoyed fast racing condition down through the Verde Island Passage.

All the regular competitors have actually recorded their fastest race times to Boracay, according to Ricky Sandoval, chairman of the organizing committee.

The seventh edition of the annual event drew boats representing Singapore, China, Germany, Malaysia, China, Australia and the Philippines with the overall winners in three class of the combined Subic Bay to Boracay Race and the Boracay Cup Regatta series receiving the hand-crafted solid brass trophy replicas by Fernando Cacnio, a multi-awarded Filipino visual artist.

The twin regatta races are backed by Sperry Topsider, Lighthouse Marina Resort, Cebu Pacific, PLDT-SMT Nation, Tanduay Rum, Watercraft Ventures Corp., Subic Bay Freeport Chamber of Commerce and Seawind Boracay. (Philippine Star)

PHOTO:
The Ragamuffin crew in 2015 when they came in first and shattered the Subic-Boracay record.

Read more: http://www.philstar.com/sports/2016/03/01/1558251/ragamuffin-sets-pace-subic-boracay-race

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Bat population down; SBMA, Subic locators to the rescue

With the dwindling number of the biggest flying bats roosting here, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and locators inside this premier Freeport are doing everything they can to protect this species from habitat loss.

SBMA Chairman Robert Garcia said that the agency plans to conduct a bat-count on the population roosting at the Cubi area. He added that the count is currently at around 10,000 to 12,000 and hopes to further increase the number through a study of their roosting habits.

The ecology center of the SBMA has made studies on the number of bats that used to count to hundreds of thousands. They said that the bats used to roost to a higher location nearer to where they are now, beside the road near the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA).

Considered as one of the biggest species of bats, these fruit bats or flying foxes have lived inside the Freeport Zone even before it was a US naval base. The number of these majestic flying foxes has dwindled since most of them have found other roosting areas in adjacent provinces or have been hunted for their meat.

Meanwhile, the non-government agency Wildlife In Need (WIN) recently held a fundraising event at the El Kabayo Stables. The fundraising event hoped to boost funds for the preservation of the animals here.

One of these animal species are the fruit bats. According to WIN President Gail Laule, they plan to conduct their own study of these animals and find out how to raise the number back to more than a hundred thousand.

Dubbed as “Unbridled at El Kabayo,” the fundraising event enjoined numerous locators inside the Freeport to donate money to provide food, shelter and medical care for the animals here. The agency also has a rescue center that helps animals who are injured and in need of medical care.

Laule said that the proceeds made from the event would also help these rescued animals, bringing them back to health and reintroducing them back to the wilderness. “Last year, we raised enough money to do some critical renovations of our macaque (monkey) enclosure so that they have a more comfortable home,” she added.

The event featured a horse riding and jumping exhibition, a parade of rescued animals, educational information of what the agency do, and other fun activities for the attendees.

With the number of tourists frequenting Subic Bay Freeport and the number of companies investing, it is really no wonder that most of the wildlife here are being disturbed and in desperate need of attention. The vast fauna of this Freeport is really one of the reasons why people visit Subic Bay. (Jonas Reyes, Manila Bulletin)

PHOTO:
THIS SIDE UP — Considered one of the biggest bats in the world, these fruit bats characteristically hang upside down their cages after being rescued and treated for various injuries and infections. The bats were presented during the ‘Unbridled at El Kabayo’ fund-raising event at Subic Bay Freeport recently to raise awareness and support for rescued animals under the care of the Wildlife in Need (WIN) rescue facility. (Jonas Reyes)

http://www.mb.com.ph/bat-population-down-sbma-subic-locators-to-the-rescue/#YJqLbDbLp0Jc4WW7.99

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Army base projects raise fears for Subic bats

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT—The military base expansion of the Armed Forces of the Philippines toward the forests inside this free port has drawn concern from conservationists because of its potential impact on the habitat of fruit bats thriving there, an official here said.

Roberto Garcia, chair of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), said the agency is closely monitoring the population of two species of bats dwelling in the free port’s forest, after groups expressed apprehension that increased human activity near the animals’ habitat would disrupt the bat community and deplete their population.

“We’re trying to protect the habitat [of the Acerodon jubatus or giant golden-crowned flying foxes, and the Pteropus vampyrus lanensis or Philippine giant fruit bat] since bats are known to be sensitive to noise,” said Garcia in a news conference on Monday.

Read more from original site -> http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/769186/army-base-projects-raise-fears-for-subic-bats

Related story: SBMA conducts bat count to preserve endangered species

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Power firm in Subic Bay gives new boat to school

SUBIC, ZAMBALES - Amidst the bustling freeport zone is a fishing community situated in Sitio Kinabuksan, Barangay Cawag in Subic. Every day, around 100 students walk a rocky trail by the beach from Sitio Nagbayukan to attend class at Kinabuksan Integrated School - the only public school in the area accessible to them.

“When it is high tide, they have to trek at least 40 minutes in the dangerous trail going to school. Sometimes, they just ask for a free boat ride from the fishermen but oftentimes they need to walk. It gets worse during the rainy season,” said Dr. Rod Raguine, school principal of Kinabukasan Integrated School.

Faculty members who live in Subic town proper take the hour-long daily commute to the school, which costs around 50 pesos per head every day -- an unwelcome expense in their limited monthly budget.

In response to these concerns, Redondo Peninsula Energy, Inc. (RP Energy) initiated a boat project that will benefit the school’s stakeholders. The boat was turned over to Kinabuksan Integrated School in a ceremony held on February 22.

The boat project is part of RP Energy’s Corporate Social Responsibility Program for Education, which was launched in 2013 in order to address the transportation problems of students and teachers in coastal areas such as Subic, Zambales.

Victor Chan, RP Energy Head for External Affairs said addressing the transportation challenges of students and teachers in Sitio Kinabuksan is just a part of the solution in addressing the problems of our public education system in grassroot communities.

"By providing the students and teachers with a boat, we will be able to provide them with a safe means to reach their school. Students will have more time to study since their travel time will be shorter, thus, improving their scholastic performance. As for the teachers, they will have more time with their families and they will be able to save more, which can greatly contribute in their daily budget,” Chan said.

Gemma Pilapil, Vice President of the school’s Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), expressed gratitude for the support from RP Energy and promised to take care of this gift.

As their contribution, the PTA provided the new anchor for the boat. The school and the PTA will be working together for the operations and maintenance of the vehicle.

Besides transporting the students, the boat will also be used by the school’s Fishery course, which is part of their K-12 curriculum.

“Our goal is to be the catalyst for development in our host communities. Aside from providing a competitive and reliable energy source, this is our way of walking the talk when we say inclusive growth. We are enjoining our fellow freeport locators to partner with us and the SBMA (Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority) in order to synergize our efforts in helping our neighboring communities grow,” Mr. Chan added.

“RP Energy believes that education is the best way to empower communities. Through RP Energy’s ‘Project Bangka,’ we are hoping to contribute in improving the education performance of the students in order for them to get a better future,” said Meralco PowerGen Vice-President for External Affairs Litz Santana. (SNL)

PHOTOS:

[1] Boat donated by RP Energy to Kinabuksan Integrated School

[2] DREAMS AFLOAT. Parent-Teacher Association Vice-President Gemma Pilapil, (1st from left); Principal Dr. Rod Raguine (4th from left); Meralco PowerGen Vice-President for External Affairs Litz Santana; RP Energy External Affairs Head Victor Chan; RP Energy CSR Officer Jason Gavina; with teachers and students of Kinabuksan Integrated School.

[3] THANK YOU. Grade school pupils with their paper boats. SBMA Public Relations Officer Malou Dungog with RP Energy External Affairs Head Victor Chan.

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“Superbods: The Underpants Run” kicks off at Century Tuna Ironman 70.3 in Subic Bay

Century Tuna Superbods: The Underpants Run will kick off Century Tuna Ironman 70.3 this March in Subic Bay, gathering the world’s top athletes to one of the region’s desired triathlon destinations for the second year.

Inspired by the tradition at Kona, home of the renowned Ironman World Championship, Century Tuna is continuing the Superbods Underpants Run that it started last year to cultivate a fun local tradition that also gives back to the community.

This exciting pre-race activity which made last year’s headlines is open to all participants of this year’s Ironman 70.3. Adding to the thrill of the 2016 Underpants Run are the 18 Century Superbods finalists who will be running alongside the triathletes.

The Underpants Run participants will run, race, and raise over USD 2,000.00 to support the National Greening Program of the SBMA Ecology Center. Two pairs of winners, foreign and local, will be selected and bring home the coveted Century Tuna Ironman 70.3 Superbods Awards and will win USD 500 each. This amount will be matched by Century Tuna for the donation.

This year’s Century Tuna Superbods: The Underpants Run will kick off on March 5 at 9:30 AM from Subic Bay Yacht Club and will take participants through a scenic route along the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

“We are all excited about the return of this year’s Century Tuna Ironman 70.3 triathlon as it further strengthens our vision to help Filipinos live healthy. We also hope to cement new traditions like the Century Tuna Superbods: The Underpants Run that people will anticipate for years to come,” said Greg Banzon, General Manager at Century Canning Corporation.

For more details, visit www.centurypacific.com.ph or www.ironman703subicbay.com

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Centennial III braces for Jelik bid in Subic-Bora race

The seventh Standard Insurance Subic Bay to Boracay Race sails off Friday with all eyes on the defending champion, Centennial III of Judes Echauz, and the toughest contender, the 75-foot Jelik of Hong Kong magnate Frank Pong.

Out to offer challenge out in the open waters are 17 other sailors, who came all the way from Germany, Australia and China.

The race, which offers stiff competition, will cover a total of 210 nautical miles. If the winds blow hard, then the race gets faster, and the action tougher as the field passes through the dreaded Verde Passage en route to the island paradise of Boracay.

Echauz, president of the Philippine Sailing Association, will spearhead a 15-man crew on board Centennial III. He ruled the 2015 Subic to Boracay Race and the Boracay Regatta Cup in Malay, Aklan.

For his feat, Echauz received a citation during the Philippine Sportswriters Association awards night last Feb. 13 at One Esplanade.

Subic Bay will host two races from the Asian Yachting Grand Prix, to be followed closely by the Boracay Cup Regatta from March 1 to 4.

The event is fully backed by the Subic Racing Club, Cebu Pacific Airlines, PLDT Alpha, Resorts World Hotel, Lighthouse Hotel, Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Sailing Association, Municipality of Malay and Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA).

From Hong Kong, the Warlick-designed Shahtoosh of Peter Cremers, Antipodes of Geoff Hill, Black Baza of Steve Manning and Freefire of Sam Chan and Russ Parker are entered in Racing Class 1.

Giving them a run for their money are Ragamuffin 90 of Australia-based Syd Fisher, owner of the fastest time.

In Division Class 2, Germany’s Emocean, skippered by Michael Raueber, and Singapore’s Zanzibar, led by Jonathan Mahony, will face the challenge from five other sailors from Hong Kong and the Philippines.

Mermaid, an Oceanis 45 and owned by Hong Kong’s Xiong Ting, leads the entries in the Cruising Class division, along with Bella Uno of Michiel Brinkers and Philippines NG3 of Elmer Gualberto.

More than the bragging rights, at stake are precious points for the prestigious Asian Yachting Skipper and Yacht of the Year awards. Captain Marty Rijkuris of the Asian Yachting Grand Prix is main judge. (Abac Cordero, The Philippine Star)

PHOTO:

JUDES Echauz steered Centennial III across the finish for a win, edging defending champion Hong Kong’s Reichel/Pug 76 Jelik in the sixth Standard Insurance Subic-to-Boracay Race in 2015.

http://www.philstar.com/sports/2016/02/24/1556229/centennial-iii-braces-jelik-bid-subic-bora-race

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Subic Freeport gears up for summer 2016 tourist season

Central Luzon’s most visited tourist destination is gearing up to keep everything hot — that is, sizzling hot for an exciting and enjoyable stay of tourists trooping here for summer vacation, especially during the Lenten season.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Roberto Garcia said the agency has already implemented major face-lift projects in most tourism facilities and infrastructures here in preparation for the usual surge of summer visitors.

“For the past weeks, maintenance and ground personnel have all been busy with various projects to make sure that Subic Bay Freeport would be ready for the big volume of tourists arriving during summer, especially this Holy Week,” Garcia said.

“And because Subic is becoming more and more of a hot item among travelers, we really have to make sure that the free port remains to be the best destination they’d always want to return to,” he added.

Referring to reports from the SBMA Tourism Department, Garcia said that tourist arrivals in Subic reached 7.3 million in 2015, an increase of 14 percent over the 6.4-million record in 2014.

He noted that tourists who actually stayed overnight or for several days in Subic reached 1.43 million in 2015, or 21 percent higher than the 1.18 million recorded in 2014.

The figures were based on reports from hotel operators in Subic, who noted that the occupancy rate also increased to 70 percent last year, the highest in the past four years.

“This is why there is a need to really work hard to maintain our status in the top list of the Department of Tourism-Region III (DoT-3). All of us should be ambassadors of tourism of the SBMA,” Garcia also told employees on Monday.

Subic was conferred the Number 1 Tourist Destination in Region 3 by the DoT-3 for the past two consecutive years, and was named as well as “Premier Convention Capital of Central Luzon” in 2012.

Garcia said that the SBMA is now refurbishing all the road features in Subic, and placing police and travelers assistance outposts in strategic areas in time for the summer season.

Meanwhile, tourism-related businesses are also making necessary renovations and upgrading their facilities, he added.

Garcia said the most important project that SBMA is completing today is the renovation of the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC) in the amount of P21 million. This will be the venue of Ad Summit Pilipinas 2016, which will bring together the country’s top advertising and marketing practitioners here on March 9 to 12. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTOS:
Workers undertake repair and improvement projects at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center, which will be the venue of Ad Summit Pilipinas 2016 on March 9-12. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

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Chicano, Adorna top PNG triathlon in Subic

Minus some of the country’ top triathletes who are undergoing high performance training in Portugal, national record holders John Chicano and Claire Adorna asserted their might and ruled the PSC-POC Philippine National Games (PNG) yesterday morning inside the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

The other winners were Joshua Ramos of Baguio and Lauren Plaza of Laguna in the mini-sprint and Andrew Remolino and Marga de los Reyes in the 16-19 race.

Chicano, 24, pulled away from national teammates Jonard Saim and Mark Anthony after the 40K bike leg to finish in 2:00.33 in the race organized by the Triathlon Association of the Philippines and Chili Grass in cooperation with the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority.

Saim came in second (2:03.44) and Hosanna third (2:06.19) in the 1.5K swim-40K bike-10K run.

Adorna, still recovering from a leg injury, won handily in 2:30.21, ahead of national teammate 17-year old Vicky Deldio (2: 43.50) and Kriska Sto. Domingo (2:46.45).

“ I am happy with the results, our national triathletes showed they are the best right now. TRAP has already integrated its developmental efforts with the POC-PSC grassroots program and that is why a lot of our national training team members we have now are former Batang Pinoy winners,“ said TRAP president Tom Carrasco Jr. who also awarded the medals together with TRAP sec-gen Mon Marchan.

“Now there is continuity for young triathletes after the Batang Pinoy,” he added.

The event was supported by ACEA Subic Bay, Asian Centre for Insulation Phils, Gatorade, Century Tuna, Harbor Point Ayala Mall, Ocean Adventure, Camayan Resort and Lighthouse Marina Resort, RaceDay, SBR.ph, Kikay Runner, and Pinoy Fitness.com. (The Philippine Star)

PHOTO:

John Leerams Chicano, Gold Medalist, Men's Event, and Maria Claire Adorna, Gold Medalist, Women's Event. (courtesy of NAGT facebook page)

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Subic Freeport hosts Ayta tribal games

In preparation for the second World Indigenous Games, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) conducted an Ayta Tribal Games here on Saturday to find out who among the Ayta tribesmen in Zambales are worthy to represent the country.

Five indigenous tribes competed in the archery and blow dart events, wearing their tribal attire and using traditional weapons during the competition held at the Pastolan Ayta Village in this free port.

These include the Pastolan tribe of Hermosa, Bataan; Mampweng, Libas, and Maliwakat tribes in Olongapo City; and another tribe from San Marcelino, Zambales.

Each event had variations that put the tribesmen into different situations, ranging from shooting a target at a standstill to shooting a target while climbing a tree.

POC board member Col. Antonio Jeff Tamayo said that another reason for holding these tribal games was to remind everyone of native traditions.

“These games help us embrace our heritage to the very core,” Tamayo said.

During the matches, the young athletes who joined the competition showed excitement, hoping that they would be chosen as representatives of the country.

Twenty-one year-old Wilson of the Libas tribe said he was eager to try his accuracy in the archery event.

He noted that these traditions were diminishing as Aytas become more urbanized. The games, he added, are a great way for the youth to embrace their roots.

During the opening ceremony, Pastolan tribal chieftain Conrado Frenilla welcomed the visiting tribes, saying the event also served as a reunion for the tribes in Zambales and Bataan.

“I hope that this will not be just a one-time event and that many more tribal games will be held here at the Pastolan Village in the near future.” (JRR/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:
Indigenous Ayta tribesmen prepare to shoot their bow and arrows during a tribal competition held at the Pastolan Village in the Subic Bay Freeport Saturday morning. Around 50 Ayta tribesmen from Zambales, Bataan and Olongapo City took part in the event. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

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LGU shares from SBMA increase to P115 million

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) announced on Monday the release of P115.23 million in revenue shares to adjacent local government units (LGUs) that are affected by operations of the Subic Bay Freeport.

SBMA Chairman Roberto Garcia said that the releases represented LGU shares for the second half of 2015.

“The current shares totalling P115 million exceeded by 9.44 per cent the P105-million shares released in the same period last year. This only goes to show that our business locators, whose taxes pay for these shares, are making good,” Garcia added.

For this schedule, Olongapo City was allotted a total of P27.87 million, while Subic, Zambales got P17.17 million; Dinalupihan, Bataan, P14.47 million; San Marcelino, Zambales, P13.96 million; Hermosa, Bataan, P11.78 million; San Antonio, Zambales, P10.16 million; Morong, Bataan, P9.94 million; and Castillejos, Zambales, P9.88 million.

Garcia said the total share for the said period was P107.03 million after deducting the mandatory 10 per cent retention amount of P11.89 million, which would be refunded after two years.

Added to the total amount for the second half of 2015, were the retained shares of P8.2 million that were withheld in the second semester of 2013.

Garcia said that revenue shares for the LGUs are derived from the corporate taxes paid bay Subic Bay Freeport-registered enterprises, which is five per cent of their gross revenue.

Of these, three per cent goes to the national government through the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), while two per cent goes to the SBMA for distribution to LGUs.

The LGU shares are determined according to population (50 per cent), land area (25 per cent), and equal sharing (25 per cent).

In August 2010, the SBMA implemented the direct payment scheme to ensure prompt release of the LGU shares.

The LGU funds are intended to support community development projects, particularly on health, education, peace and order, and livelihood generation to enable communities near the Subic Bay Freeport to keep pace with developments in the special economic zone. (RFD/MPD-SBMA)

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San Sebastian's Soltones, Eroa reign supreme in NCAA beach volleyball in Subic

SAN Sebastian's Gretcel Soltones and Alyssa Eroa pulled off a vengeful 14-21, 21-9, 15-6 victory over San Beda twins Maria Jeziela and Maria Nieza Viray to claim the NCAA women’s beach volleyball title on Sunday at the Boardwalk in Subic.

Eroa, a libero in the school's indoor volley squad, stepped up after Dangie Encarnacion suffered a deep cut on the chin after a bad fall during the Lady Stags' painful defeat to the Virays early in the elimination round.

"We wouldn't have done it without her, she was really an important part of this championship," said Soltones of Eroa.

It was San Sebastian's third straight championship and a league-best sixth title.

Soltones was determined to bag the title after San Sebastian lost in the indoor volleyball finals to St. Benilde.

"I guess we don't want to lose again," she said.

Soltones and Eroa made it a double celebration for San Sebastian, which won the high school title by toppling last year's titlist Emilio Aguinaldo with a 20-22, 21-19, 15-13 win.

San Sebastian's Romeo Teodones, Jr. won the juniors MVP.

"The school is really proud of their accomplishments," said Atty. Reynold Munsayac, San Sebastian's NCAA Management Committee representative. (Spin.ph)

PHOTO:
Gretcel Soltones got a solid partner in Alyssa Eroa after Dangie Encarnacion suffered a deep cut on the chin early in the tournament.

http://www.spin.ph/volleyball/news/gretcel-soltones-alyssa-eroa-ncaa-beach-volley-champion-san-sebastian

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Ad Summit Pilipinas 2016 all set in Subic Bay Freeport

The Association of Accredited Advertising Agencies of the Philippines (4As) is calling on the marketing industry to “come out boldly and play where no man has played before”, as it unveils the latest batch of speakers for Ad Summit Pilipinas 2016, to be held from March 9 to 12 at the Subic Bay Exhibition Convention Center (SBECC).

With the theme, “Come out and play” the biggest advertising and marketing convention in the country aims to inspire practitioners to progress fearlessly, as its invited industry icons prepare to participate as the Summit’s speakers.

“We have an amazing line-up awaiting Summit participants. Expect the unexpected,” said Ad Summit 2016 Chairman Alex Sayfu. “With our theme, we hope that the Summit allows to view all possibilities where there were none before. No obligations, just opportunities. Ad Summit Pilipinas 2016 will encourage this type of unbridled creativity to flourish,” he added.

Speakers participating in the event include business tycoon Manuel V. Pangilinan; award-winning director Jose Javier Reyes; AQKA Shanghai’s Eric Cruz; Vikas Gulati from Opera Mediaworks; leadership expert Tom Oliver; TBWA/Hakuhodo’s Takahiro Hosada; Hakuhodo Kettle’s Kazauki Hashida; Fox international’s Managing Director for South East Asia and head of Ad Sales Simeon Dawes; Regional Digital Director for APAC Havas Worldwide Todd Martin; Google South East Asia and India’s vice president and managing director Rajan Anandan; Mullen Lowe Group’s president of Creative Council Jose Miguel Socoloff; and Twitter’s marketing director of online sales for Asia Pacific and Latin America Aliza Knox.

This is the second time Ad Summit is partnering with the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA). With its fun and progressive environment, the Subic Bay Freeport Zone is said to be a fitting site for this innovative and creative event.

“We are proud to be hosting the Ad Summit Pilipinas in Subic, for the second time, to boot. We invite you to experience the sights and sounds that Subic has to offer, and we hope that you will enjoy your stay here,” SBMA Chairman Roberto V. Garcia said. (Dante M. Salvana, Headline Gitnang Luzon)

PHOTO:
SBMA Chairman Roberto V. Garcia (center) signs a memorandum of agreement with 4As Chairman Norman Agatep (left) and Ad Summit Pilipinas Chairman Alex Syfu for the conduct of the 2016 Ad Summit at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

http://www.headlinegl.com/ad-summit-pilipinas-2016-all-set-at-subic/

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Perpetual, San Beda stay unscathed in NCAA beach volleyball

Brothers Relan and Rey Taneo, Jr. of Perpetual Help and twins Maria Jeiziela and Maria Nieza Viray of San Beda turned the Subic's Boardwalk into their playground after remaining the last unbeaten teams in the 91st NCAA beach volleyball action on Friday.

The Taneo siblings downed Mapua's Philip Michael Bagalay and Samuel Joseph Almales, 21-15, 21-19, in a duel of unbeaten teams to seize the solo lead with six wins in the men's division event backed by The Lighthouse, Bayfront Hotel, Subic Park Hotel, Moonbay Villas, LGR, Mikasa, SBMA and ABS-CBN Sports and Action.

The win moved the Taneo duo a victory away from booking a spot in the Final Four.

If the Las Pinas-based school ends up sweeping the single-round robin elimination, it will automatically advance to the finals and one triumph closer from regaining the title it lost to St. Benilde last season.

It will also turn the Final Four into a stepladder semis where the next three qualified teams battle it out in a knockout format.

The Taneos, who hail from Cebu, are gunning for their second title after the two helped Perpetual Help's indoor volleyball squad cop the men's title with shock finals victory over last year's titlist Emilio Aguinaldo College last month.

"We're just trying to enjoy ourselves and at the same time make our school, Perpetual Help, proud," said the elder Rey in Filipino.

The Virays, for their part, trounced Letran's Julia Angeles and Regielyn Cabrera, 25-23, 21-13, to likewise stay unscathed an atop the heap in the women's side with six wins.

Trailing them were San Sebastian's Gretchel Soltones and Dangie Encarnacion, the reigning back-to-back champions who racked up four wins in row to spring back to life after absorbing a painful defeat to the Virays Thursday and smashed St. Benilde's Jannine Navarro and Melanie Torres, 21-13, 21-14.

Soltones and Encarnacion thus improved to 5-1 (win-loss), which was good for joint second with their recent conquests, Navarro and Torres.

In juniors' play, Perpetual Help and defending champion Emilio Aguinaldo also stayed unbeaten by stringing together five straight wins.

Like the Altas, the Junior Altas are gunning to add the beach volley crown to the NCAA indoor volley championship they won by beating the Brigadiers also last month. (Philippine Star)

PHOTOS:

Scenes from the 91st NCAA Beach Volleyball tournament at the Subic Bay Freeport Watefront Boardwalk. (AMD, A. Macatuno)

http://www.philstar.com/sports/2016/02/12/1552327/perpetual-san-beda-stay-unscathed-ncaa-beach-volleyball

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NCAA beach volleyball tournament fires off in Subic

The 91st NCAA beach volley tournament unfolds Wednesday (February 10) with reigning champions San Sebastian, St. Benilde and Emilio Aguinaldo defending their women's, men's and juniors titles at the Boardwalk of the Subic Bay Free Port Zone in Zambales.

Gretchel Soltones, the reigning back-to-back MVP in NCAA indoor volleyball, will team up with Dangie Encarnacion and reserve Alyssa Eroa as they try to jumpstart their women’s division title-retention bid against Jose Rizal's Rosalie Pepito, Maria Shola May Luna Alvarez and Annie Macaraya at 10:00 a.m.

Perpetual Help's Vhima Condada, Marijo Medalla and Jamela Suyat, St. Benilde's Jannine Navarro, Melanie Torres and Danielle Christine Lim and Arellano U's Regine Anne Arocha, Angelica Sawali and Jenicalynne Tan are the teams expected to give the Lady Stags their toughest challenge.

Last year's men's titlist St. Benilde, for its part, will be without its top player Johnvic de Guzman, who have skipped the event leaving the Isaah O'neal Arda, Racmade Etrone and Mark Anthony Deximo the mantle of responsibility in defending the crown.

San Sebastian is currently tied with Perpetual Help as the most titled women's team with four each since the sport was introduced 14 years ago and will emerge as the winningest if it could repeat this season.

Although action starts as early as 10:00 a.m., the opening ceremony is set at 5:15 p.m. with Jose Rizal's Paul Supan, the organizing committee chair of beach volley this season, officially ushering in the event backed by The Lighthouse, Bayfront Hotel, Subic Park Hotel, Moonbay Villas, LGR, Mikasa, SBMA and ABS-CBN Sports and Action.

"It's going to be another exciting beach volleyball tournament," said Supan.

Emilio Aguinaldo will be the team to beat in the high school division after clinching a three-peat feat a year ago.

The Brigadiers will be represented by Cee-Jay Hicap, Ederson Rebusora and Mario Dua, Jr. (ABS-CBN Sports)

PHOTO:
Gretchel Soltones, the reigning back-to-back MVP in NCAA indoor volleyball, will team up with Dangie Encarnacion and reserve Alyssa Eroa in San Sebastian College's three-peat bid in the 91st NCAA women's beach volleyball contest.

http://sports.abs-cbn.com/ncaa/news/2016/02/09/ncaa-beach-volleyball-competition-starts-wednesday-8655

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USS Curtis back in Subic after West PH Sea patrol

A guided missile destroyer of the United States Navy, USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG 54), is back in the country just one week after it conducted patrol in the South China Sea (West Philippine Sea) wherein it sailed near one of the islands claimed by Beijing.

The Arleigh Burke class USS Wilbur docked in Subic around 8:30 a.m. Friday.

Her visit to the former American naval base comes two days after the U.S. said it is open to joint patrols with the Philippines in South China Sea as part of efforts to ensure freedom of navigation in the region.

Last January 24, USS Wilbur dropped anchor in Manila as part of a routine visit for maintenance and crew rest. While in Manila some members of the ship’s crew had the opportunity to meet with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) as a means of continuing to build the relationship between Philippine and U.S. forces.

Days later, it was reported that the American destroyer conducted freedom of navigation operations (FONOP) within 12 nautical miles of Triton Island in the Paracel Islands.

A Pentagon spokesman, Capt. Jeff Davis, said the operation aimed to challenge efforts to restrict freedom of navigation.

“This operation challenged attempts by the three claimants — China, Taiwan and Vietnam — to restrict navigation rights and freedoms,” according to Davis.

Reports also quoted Davis as saying that no ships from China’s military were in the vicinity of the warship during its recent patrol, which drew strong Criticism from Beijing.

Chinese Defense Ministry spokesman Yang Yujun, in a statement, called the US action as “intentionally provocative and “irresponsible and extremely dangerous.”

“The American warship has violated relevant Chinese laws by entering Chinese territorial waters without prior permission and the Chinese side has taken relevant measures including monitoring and admonishments,” he said. (Elena L. Aben, Manila Bulletin)

PHOTO:
USS CURTIS WILBUR IN SUBIC — Dock officers and maintenance crew point to a part of the USS Curtis Wilbur that needs to be fixed while they stand beside the ship’s Mark 45 gun yesterday at the Alava Wharf. The American Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer made a sail by near the disputed shoals on Saturday, drawing criticisms from the Chinese government. The ship is docked at the Subic Bay Freeport for routine maintenance. (MB Photo by Jonas Reyes)

http://www.mb.com.ph/uss-curtis-back-in-subic-after-west-ph-sea-patrol/

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SBMA employees pay last respects to former Chairman Salonga

Officials and employees of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) on Wednesday night paid their last respects to a former chairman of the agency, RAdm. Feliciano G. Salonga, PCGA, who passed away last January 29 at the age of 86.

In a necrological service held at SBMA Gym here, SBMA officials led by Chairman Roberto Garcia paid tribute to Salonga who headed the Subic agency from 2006 to 2011.

Former SBMA Administrator Armand Arreza, who served with Salonga, was also there to recall fond memories of the former official who was known among SBMA employees for his punctuality and colorful language.

Former Zambales governor Vicente Magsaysay and his son, former SBMA director Jesus Victor, also attended the ceremonies.

Gerard Salonga, conductor, musical arranger, orchestrator, as well as founder, musical director and conductor of FILharmoniKA, also paid his last respects to his father and, along with his symphony orchestra, offered a musical tribute to the former SBMA Chairman.

On Monday night, SBMA Deputy Administrator Randy Escolango, who is also commander of the 111th Squadron of the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary (PCGA), also led PCGA officials in a necrological mass to honor their former comrade.

A graduate of the US Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York, Salonga held the rank of a Rear Admiral in the PCGA, and organized the PCGA 103rd Squadron (Zambales) in Subic and became its commander.

Among the PCGA officials who gave their final salute to their former comrade were Commodore Gerry Reyes, who read a poem in Salonga’s honor, Vice Admiral Jose Lito Aseniero, VAdm Joseph Dy and VAdm Valentin Prieto.

Salonga’s wife, Luz, received the Philippine flag presented by PCGA officials.

Salonga served as the fourth SBMA chairman and head of agency and was credited with steering the agency towards further development of its maritime business sector.


Prior to his appointment to the SBMA, Salonga served in various capacities for other maritime-related companies: president and general manager of Philippine Shipyard & Engineering Corp.; vice chairman of the Bataan Shipyard & Engineering Co., Inc.; managing director of Marine Consultancy Division of B.P. Mata & Co., Inc.; marketing director of MLD & Associates, a marine consultancy firm; and executive chairman of Sabah Shipyard Philippines, Inc.

He also became chief of the Aids-to-Navigation Group, Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary (PCGA) National Command; and a commissioned officer (LT. SG) of the Philippine Navy who at one time served as TF-04 Intelligence Officer, Patrol Force Staff Engineering Officer, and Division 21 Chief Engineering Officer.

In 1998, Salonga was named "Outstanding Professional Achievement Awardee for the year 1998" by the alumni group of his alma mater, the United States Merchant Marine Academy Alumni in Kings Point, New York.

In 1994, he was also awarded a presidential citation by President Fidel V. Ramos for the successful privatization of the Philippine Shipyard & Engineering Corporation in Subic, Zambales.

In 1989, Salonga was named an adopted son of Subic in recognition of his service to the community. A similar honor was bestowed on him on October 24, 2015, when he was made an adopted son of Zambales for his goodwill and support to the people of the province "with the common vision for excellent service and development of the (Subic Bay) Freeport and the Zambales Province.”

After the wake at the SBMA Gym, Salonga’s remains were brought to San Felipe, Zambales, where he was buried at the Fiñones Memorial Garden Cemetery on Friday, February 5. (RAV,HEE/MPD-SBMA)

VIDEO:

IN MEMORIAM: A video tribute in memory of former SBMA Chairman Salonga, produced by the Media Production Department of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (DMS,FLP/MPD-SBMA)

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Hanjin hiring more workers for shipbuilding projects

Hanjin Heavy Industries and Construction – Philippines (HHIC-Phil) plans to hire more Filipino workers for its shipbuilding facility here to accommodate the growing number of orders from seafaring nations.

Hanjin top officials said that by next month, it will start building three Ultra Large Container Vessels (ULCVs).

These ULCVs will have the capacity to carry 20,600 twenty-footer equivalent unit (TEU) containers in one hauling.

The ULCVs were ordered by France’s shipping conglomerate CMA CGM.

Each ship has a measurement of 400-meter in length, 59-meter in breadth and depth of 33 meters, with a deck as large as four soccer/football fields combined.

HHIC-Phil Managing Director for External Trade Yoo Hoan Jo said that the new orders would likely mean additional workers for the completion of these three ULCVs.

The company has already delivered 91 vessels since it started its operation at the Redondo Peninsula, Subic Bay Freeport in 2008, boosting the country’s export portfolio over the years.

The company has delivered 16 vessels last year and has numerous orders this year including the three ULCVs.

“The synergy between Hanjin and the Filipino worker is really a great formula not just in shipbuilding, but in nation building as well. The company believes in the craftsmanship and hard work the Filipino is known for, and will continue to utilize the Filipinos’ capabilities in shipbuilding for years to come,” Jo said.

The company recently gave back to the community by donating P5 million to help the National Anti-Poverty Commission’s (NAPC) priority projects for the marginalized Filipinos.

The turnover of the donation was done last month at the NAPC office in Diliman, Quezon City.

The donation is part of the company’s thrust to help uplift the Filipino people.

Jo personally turned over the check to NAPC Secretary and lead convenor Jose Eliseo Rocamora, following the signing of a memorandum of agreement (MOA) between the two parties.

The MOA stipulates that the P5-million donation from Hanjin would be disbursed specifically to support NAPC’s priority projects for post-Yolanda fisher folk settlement in Palawan and Sicogon. (Jonas Reyes, Manila Bulletin)

PHOTOS:

[1] HHIC-Phil shipyard at the Redondo Peninsula in Subic Bay Freeport Zone (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

[2] Made in Subic: A ship being built at HHIC-Phil's Subic shipyard. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

[3] HIC-Phil prides itself for having a Filipino workforce highly skilled in shipbuilding. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

http://www.mb.com.ph/hanjin-hiring-more-workers-for-shipbuilding-projects/

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Former SBMA Chair RADM Feliciano G. Salonga passes away

Rear Admiral Feliciano G. Salonga, PCGA, Chairman of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) from 2006 to 2011, passed away Friday evening, January 29, 2016.

Former Chairman Salonga, who is also father of Broadway star Lea Salonga, was 86.

On her social media accounts, Salonga, who is currently in New York for the Broadway run of the musical "Allegiance," posted a screenshot of the obituary of her late father that appeared in the Philippine Star.

"To be completely honest, I didn't know even half of what's he's done in his professional or military life. All I know is he has now joined the rest of his ancestors that went to the Great Beyond before him. Rest in peace, Dad," she wrote on Facebook.

His remains can be viewed at the SBMA gym and will be buried at the Finones Memorial Garden Cemetery, San Felipe, Zambales at a still-unannounced date.

Feliciano G. Salonga was a graduate of the US Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York where he was consistently awarded with the Scholastic Star until he finished his Bachelor’s Degree in Marine Engineering in 1953. He attended the MBA program in the University of the Philippines in 1959-60, and is a graduate of the United States Mine Sweeping Course in 1956 and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Intelligence Specialist Course in 1954.

Salonga was also vice chairman of Bataan Shipyard & Engineering Co., Inc.; managing director of Marine Consultancy Division of B.P. Mata & Co., Inc.; marketing director of MLD & Associates, a marine consultancy firm, chief of the Aids-to-Navigation Group, Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary (PCGA) National Command; director of the O.B. Montessori Grassroots Leadership Foundation, Inc.; and president of the Mt. Pinatubo Hidden Temple Shrine & Community Foundation.

Prior to his chairmanship of the SBMA, Salonga was the president of Ganda Energy & Holdings, Inc., an independent power producer from 1997-1999.

Other positions he held were executive chairman of Sabah Shipyard Philippines, Inc. (1994-1999); president & general manager of Philippine Shipyard & Engineering Corp. (1987-1994); vice president for marketing of the Philippine Shipyard & Engineering Corp. (1984-1987); commercial manager of PNOC Marine Corporation (1981-1984); chairman of Traders Industrial Supply Co., Inc. (1980-1983); marketing director of Dynamarine Corporation (1966-1980); president and general manager, B.B. Fischer & Company, Inc. (1973-1980); senior department head for Research & Development Department of the Philippine Packing Corporation (1960-1963); Commissioned Officer (LT. SG), Philippine Navy, TF-04 Intelligence Officer, Patrol Force Staff Engineering Officer, Division 21 Chief Engineering Officer (1953-1960)

In February 2006, Salonga was awarded the Blue Falcon Award by his alma mater, the V. Mapa High School, for his achievements and contributions in maritime industrial management.

He was made an adopted son of Zambales, on October 24, 2005 in recognition of his goodwill and support to the people of the province "with the common vision for excellent service and development of the Freeport and Zambales Province."

In 1998, Salonga was named "Outstanding Professional Achievement Awardee for the year 1998" by the United States Merchant Marine Academy Alumni in Kings Point, New York.

He was also awarded a presidential citation for Successful Privatization of the Philippine Shipyard & Engineering Corporation by President Fidel V. Ramos in 1994 and "Adopted Son of Subic" for Service to the Community in 1989.

He is also former commander of the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary, 103rd Squadron (Zambales); former first vice president & director of the Philippine Shipbuilders & Repairers Association (PHILSAR); former president of the Shipbreakers Association of the Philippines, former president of the Philippine Independent Power Producers Association, Inc.; and former chairman & governor of the Chamber of Maritime Industries of the Philippines.

He was a member of the East Asia Committee of Lloyd’s Register of Shipping, London from 1996 to 1998, and the Technical Committee of the American Bureau of Shipping in 1982.

Chairman Salonga is a licensed 3rd Assistant Engineer of the United States Coast Guard and currently Rear Admiral of the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary, Aids-to-Navigation Group. (Manila Bulletin)

PHOTOS:

[1] Rear Admiral Feliciano G. Salonga, PCGA. 1930-2016 (AMD/MPD-SBMA) 

[2] Announcement photo courtesy of Lea Salonga’s twitter account

http://www.mb.com.ph/lea-salongas-dad-passes-on/

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