It's Time to Play at Ad Summit Pilipinas 2016!

Come Out and Play with the country’s marketing communications industry as the Association of Accredited Advertising Agencies of the Philippines (4As) sets the stage to unleash our creativity, indulge our imagination, and introduce us to new playmates through Ad Summit Pilipinas 2016, happening from March 9-12 at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center.

Joining the event are business tycoon Manuel V. Pangilinan; award-winning director Jose Javier Reyes; AQKA Shanghai’s executive creative Director Eric Cruz; Opera Mediaworks managing director Vikas Gulati; leadership expert Tom Oliver; TBWA\Hakuhodo’s creative director Takahiro Hosoda; Hakuhodo Kettle’s creative director Kazuaki Hashida; Fox International’s VP for Ad Sales Yamini Ashish; APAC digital director for Havas Worldwide Todd Martin; Google SEA and India’s vice president and managing director Rajan Anandan; Mullen Lowe Group’s president of Creative Council Jose Miguel Sokoloff; Coca-Cola Phils. Integrated Marketing Communications director Jesus Ferreira; and Twitter's VP for online sales for Asia Pacific and Latin America Aliza Knox.

A panel of popular YouTube Influencers will also be assembled to discuss the topic of “Building brands through content.” Panelists include Mikey Bustos (Entertainment), Jako De Leon (Travel), and Say Tioco Artillero (Beauty).

This is the second time that the 4As is partnering with the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) to mount Ad summit Pilipinas. With its fun and progressive environment, the Subic Bay Freeport Zone is said to be a fitting site for this creative event.

“We are proud to be hosting the Ad Summit Pilipinas in Subic, for the second time. We invite you to experience the sights and sounds that Subic has to offer, and we hope that you will enjoy your stay here,” said Roberto Garcia, SBMA Chairman and Administrator.

‘Play’ More

Another Ad Summit activity to look forward to is the staging of the "Kidlat Awards" of the Creative Guild of the Philippines, intended to institutionalize "Kidlat” as the country's most prestigious creative advertising competition. Expected to receive top honors are the most creative marketing communication materials harvested over the last year.

For an interactive expo experience, participants may also visit the Ad Summit Pilipinas Tradex 2016, where over 2,000 professionals from brands, media, agencies, and suppliers are expected to gather to showcase industry trends and business ideas, and build marketing relationships with delegates. More than 60 booths will be on hand to promote products and services, display brands, demonstrate state of the art technologies and equipment, and market test new product lines in a one-stop-shop marketplace.

All these are made possible by Ad Summit Pilipinas, which is presented by: PLDT and Smart Communications, Inc. Major sponsors include: Manila Broadcasting Company; ABS-CBN Corporation; Radio Mindanao Network; Eat Bulaga/TAPE (Phils.), Inc.; TV5/CIGNAL, and The Philippine Star.

Minor Sponsors are AXN, Petron, Havas Ortega, OPERA Mediaworks, Adobo Magazine, Brand New Media, Kitkat, Ford Phils., Pioneer Insurance, Kopiko 78, Coca-Cola, Jollibee, and Philippine Daily Inquirer. Partners are Devant TV, AdRover, Royal Duty Free, Rainforest Natural Mineral Water, Destileria Limtuaco, Inquirer Mobile, Rappler, Max’s Group, Krispy Kreme, and Loudbox Studios.

For more information, visit facebook.com/AdSummitPH and follow twitter.com/@ADSummitPH and @adsummitpilipinas on Instagram.

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Palace: NoKor ship stays until probe is completed

MALACAÑANG yesterday said the North Korean vessel being held at the Subic Bay Freeport would remain under Philippine custody until the investigation is completed and a decision is reached on what to do with the ship.

Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said the Philippines is committed to upholding a United Nations Security Council resolution that restricts the movement of vessels that may be used in transporting equipment or armaments that the UN seeks to restrict.

“The Philippine government is complying with the United Nations Security Council Resolution 2270 on the imposition of sanctions pertaining to North Korea. For this reason, the M/V Jin Teng has been impounded in the port of Subic, Zambales...It was decided that the Coast Guard will continue to hold the vessel at port until the ongoing inquiry and investigation has been completed. It was also agreed that the crew may be allowed to leave if justified by the results of the investigation,” Coloma said.

He said an interagency body composed of the foreign affairs, transportation, and justice departments, along with the Bureau of Immigration and Philippine Coast Guard has met with the National Coast Watch Center to discuss further actions on the vessel.

Last Monday, the Department of Foreign Affairs said no date has been set as to when the 21 crew members of the vessel would be allowed to leave the country.

The Jin Teng is registered and flagged under multiple countries but is said to be one of the 31 listed vessels owned by North Korea. It arrived in Subic Bay on March 4 and was impounded by the Philippine Coast Guard.

The UN resolution, which was passed after a North Korean nuclear test in January and a long-range rocket test in February, requires all member states to inspect all cargo ships to and from North Korea.

It also bans all exports including coal, iron, iron ore, gold, titanium ore, vanadium ore, rare earth metals, and all types of aviation fuel to North Korea. (Jocelyn Montemayor, Malaya)

PHOTO:
Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr.

http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/palace-nokor-ship-stays-until-probe-completed

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SBMA, RP Energy partners for Women's Month

More than 300 employees of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), locators, and community partners marched in the Freeport to advocate for Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment.

With the theme “Pledge for Equality,” the activity was a partnership between SBMA – Gender and Development (GAD) Focal Point System and Redondo Peninsula Energy Inc. (RP Energy) to raise awareness on the role of women in nation-building through various activities.

One of the highlights of the program was the women empowerment walk, wherein SBMA showcased the different facets of women in the Freeport. Local women advocates and movers participated in this activity.

Benefitting over 200 SBMA employees was the “KliniKaBabaihan” program, which involved a medical mission to promote women’s health and wellness. The activity covered free dental check-ups; random blood sugar and pressure testing; and distribution of reading glasses to SBMA employees, which are mostly women.

Regular community consultations led by RP Energy were used as a basis for these corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs.

“During our field work, we noticed that there’s a lack of equal opportunity for women especially in grassroot communities. Because of this, we at RP Energy started crafting gender-responsive CSR initiatives to address this issue,” said RP Energy Head for External Affairs Victor Chan.

Among the gender-sensitive CSR programs of RP Energy, which it has been conducting since 2012, are KliniKababaihan and Usapang Babae.

To date, RP Energy has covered 200 trafficked persons which were oriented on their rights under the law and were informed on the available Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children (VAWC) services and programs.

The power company also established three Women’s Health and Wellness Center located in Barangay Cawag, Subic Municipality and Pastolan Aeta Village. And to ensure the physical and psychological health of women in the grassroot communities, they have trained more than 200 women Barangay Health Workers, enabling them to bring health services to women in far-flung areas.

The celebration of Women’s Month in the Philippines traces its history back in 1988 when, President Corazon C. Aquino signed Proclamation No. 224 “Declaring the First Week of March of Every Year as Women’s Week and March 8, 1988 and Every Year Thereafter as Women’s Rights and International Peace Day.”

On that same year, Ms. Aquino also signed Proclamation No. 227, “Providing for the Observance of the Month of March as Women’s Role in History Month,” which designated the National Commission on the Role of Filipino Women (NCRFW which is now Philippine Commission on Women or PCW) as the secretariat to coordinate its nationwide observance.

On 10 April 1990, she signed Republic Act No. 6949, “An Act to Declare March Eight of Every Year as a Special Working Holiday to be Known as National Women’s Day,” to encourage employees from the government and private sector to participate in Women's Day activities.

The celebration has become an occasion for discussions on various gender-related issues, with activities such as Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, the Beijing Platform for Action, the Millennium Development Goals (2000-2015), the Philippine Plan for Gender-Responsive Development (1995-2025), and the Framework Plan for Women.

PHOTOS:

[1] Reading glasses for SBMA Employees – RP Energy’s External Affairs Head, Victor Chan (left) helps in the distribution of eyeglasses to SBMA Employees as part of RP Energy’s advocacy in promoting women’s health and wellness.

[2] Woman of Courage - Elsie Cabral, Officer-in-Charge of SBMA’s Women’s Desk. She was recognized by Soroptimist International of the Philippines as one of their awardee for the Unsung Women Heroes Award in 2014).

[3] Woman of Strength - Joycelline Dela Cruz of the SBMA Law Enforcement Department-Women’s Desk during her runway walk for women empowerment. She is a PWD, Women Advocate and a Balikatan Movement Volunteer.

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MSC’s USNS Charles Drew hosts ship tour to Subic Bay's medical professionals

Eleven Filipino nationals toured the dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Charles Drew (T-AKE 10) during a community relations event in Subic Bay, March 3.

The Filipino nationals were staff members comprised of nurses and medical technicians from the Unihealth- Baypointe Hospital and Medical Center located here.

The event was sponsored by Military Sealift Command (MSC) and the guests were those who provide care to civilian mariners in the form of physicals, Medical Surveillance Program renewals (MSPs) and other urgent and routine medical needs.

The Baypointe staff were treated to a hardy dinner onboard and given a tour of the ship which included the bridge, the SA330-J Puma helicopter cargo handling areas, and the ship's medical department.

"Thank you very much for a wonderful experience touring the ship," said Marjurie Hernandez, from the marketing department at Baypointe Hospital. The staff stated they had a memorable time and for some of them this was their first time seeing a U.S. Navy ship up close.

MSC currently contracts with Baypointe Hospital and other local medical facilities in the Subic Bay area for the completion of required MSC medical exams. The USNS Charles Drew is currently assigned to the 7th Fleet area of responsibility. (dvidshub.net)

PHOTO:
Filipino nationals pose for a photo in the dining facility during a tour of the dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Charles Drew (T-AKE 10), March 3. (Photo courtesy of Marjurie Hernandez)

https://www.dvidshub.net/news/191502/mscs-usns-charles-drew-hosts-ship-tour-medical-professionals#.Vt7fEZx97WJ

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SBMA, Virginia Port Authority forge alliance of cooperation

WASHINGTON, D.C.- The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and Virginia Port Authority (VPA) established an Alliance of Cooperation on 05 March 2016 in a ceremony held at the Virginia International Gateway Terminal in Portsmouth, Virginia.

The Alliance was established by a Memorandum of Understanding signed by Roberto V. Garcia, SBMA Chairman and Administrator; and John F. Reinhart, VPA CEO and Executive Director.

The MOU will provide a framework for information sharing aimed at generating new business by promoting the all-water route between the Subic Bay Freeport and The Port of Virginia. The Alliance will also explore joint marketing efforts; share non-confidential data that may be useful for developing the bilateral relationship of the ports; exchange information resulting from market studies that may be mutually relevant; look at the possibility of developing joint- or cross-training seminars; and transfer technical or technological capabilities.

Chairman Garcia underscored the MOU’s importance to deepening the Philippines-US economic relationship.

“This MOU is landmark and pioneering. It provides an opportunity for Subic Bay Freeport and the Port of Virginia to learn from each other with a view to cooperating on areas of mutual interest and concern in pursuit of economic development. The choice of Subic Bay Freeport also reaffirms the long-standing historical ties and friendship between the Philippines and the United States,” Chairman Garcia said.

Russel J. Held, Vice President for Economic Development of the Virginia Port Authority, expressed optimism that the MOU will allow the two ports to share best practices with each other, and positively impact on jobs creation, tax space, and the economic well-being of the communities outside the gates of the two ports.

“Learning from each other is what the agreement is all about,” said Mr. Held.

The signing ceremony was witnessed by Benjamin Antonio III and Wilfredo Pineda, Members of the SBMA Board of Directors; Marcelino Sanqui, SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator for Operations; Ronnie Yambao, SBMA Deputy Administrator for Business and Investments; Warren Harris, Executive Director of the Virginia Beach Economic Development Office; Scott Hall, Deputy Executive Director; and Ms. Naomi Estaris, COO/VP of Sister Cities Association of Virginia Beach.

In a statement, Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. also welcomed the signing of the MOU.

“This Alliance clearly reaffirms the dynamic and robust Philippine-US economic partnership. It is our hope that this Alliance of Cooperation between SBMA and VPA can deepen and strengthen not only the relationship of the Subic Bay Freeport and the Port of Virginia, but also trade and investment between the Philippines and the United States,” Ambassador Cuisia said.

At a meeting organized by the Virginia Beach Economic Development Office after the signing ceremony, Chairman Garcia and his delegation also met with Delegate Ron Villanueva, a Filipino-American member of the House of Delegates of the Commonwealth of Virginia, who is the Chairman of the House Committee on Transportation.

The Philippine delegation and Delegate Villanueva had a wide-ranging discussion on issues relating to transportation, shipping, port operations, and opportunities for investments in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone. At the same meeting, the delegation also fielded questions from the heads of a number of Virginia SMEs who are seriously interested in investing in the construction, real estate, and manufacturing sectors.

The SBMA is the Philippine agency that administers and manages the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, including the Subic Bay Freeport. The Port of Subic Bay is strategically located along major shipping routes in the South China Sea, which makes it an ideal transshipment point to and from the trans-Pacific, Japan, Korea, China, and the rest of Southeast Asia. It has a natural deep navigational channel with berthing facilities, and is easily accessible by land to and from Metro Manila as well as North and Central Luzon.

The VPA administers the Port of Virginia, which comprises six general cargo terminals. It is also strategic with deep shipping channels, zero air-draft restrictions, located in the US Mid-Atlantic with access to two-thirds of the US population within a day’s drive or two-day double-stack rail to/from the Midwest, quick access to the open sea and friendly labor relations.

The initial idea for such an Alliance was developed during a visit by a Virginia Beach delegation to SBMA. Olongapo City and Virginia Beach are sister cities.

PHOTOS:

[1] SBMA Chairman and Administrator Roberto V. Garcia and VPA President for Economic Development Russel J. Held exchanged copies of the Memorandum of Understanding establishing an Alliance of Cooperation between SBMA and VPA on 05 March 2016 at the Virginia International Gateway Terminal in Portsmouth, VA, USA.

[2] SBMA Chairman Roberto V. Garcia (2nd from right) exchanges views with Delegate Ron Villanueva, Chairman of the Transportation Committee of the Virginia House of Delegates (leftmost). At right is SBMA Director Benjamin Antonio III.

http://www.philippineembassy-usa.org/news/4907/300/SBMA-VIRGINIA-PORT-AUTHORITY-FORGE-ALLIANCE-OF-COOPERATION/d,phildet/

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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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