British Yacht Redesigning Firm Banks On Subic Bay For Growth

A British company engaged in the refurbishing and redesigning of old yachts has banked on Filipino ship-building skill and this premier Freeport’s tax perks and strategic location to chart its future growth.

Ocean Gecko Designs and Marine Services Inc. recently invested in this Freeport to recreate old boats and turn them into luxurious sea-going vessels. Although the managing team has been a part of an investor in Subic Bay Freeport for 10 years, the company only started in 2010.

Managing Director Duncan Trower said “our British management team has been based for over 10 years in Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Philippines with a wealth of experience in the marine field.”

“We consider good design paramount to successful projects and products. Our design team is actively involved in day to day production, development and fabrication ensuring accuracy of work and real time problem solving. This approach enables design, fabrication and engineering to evolve together as projects progress,” he added.

Currently, the company is working on a former buoy tender of the Norwegian government and has made it into a $10-million yacht complete with amenities such as a deck Jacuzzi, vip rooms, etc.

Christened as Anda, the boat was originally constructed in 1965 by Brodrene Lothe A/S (Norway). After serving as a buoy tender, the Norwegian Coast Guard used Anda for coastal patrol duties between Russian and Norwegian waters. She was constructed to DNV 1-A1-k, with steel hull and aluminum superstructure. (Jonas Reyes, Manila Bulletin)

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10 outstanding Subic Freeport workers honored

This year’s crop of “the best among the Freeport’s best” was finally known last Friday when the Subic Bay Workforce Development Foundation, Inc. (SBWFI) recognized the 2012 Ten Outstanding Freeport Workers who exemplified discipline, dedication, and commitment to excellence in their respective jobs.

The 11th batch of outstanding workers were chosen by SBWFI in cooperation with the Labor Department of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) from the more than 92,000 workers currently employed by various companies registered in Subic.

The winners were chosen by a panel of judges headed by Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Undersecretary for Special Concerns Jose Mari Oquiñena, Maribeth Gopez of the National Conciliation and Mediation Board (NCMB), and Ricardo Ednave of the Department of Education. The awarding, which was also attended by Leonida Romulo, labor attaché at the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and Maria Cristina Mangalindan, officer in charge of NCMB-DOLE in Region 3, was held at the Harbor Point mall here.

This year’s outstanding Subic workers are: Gilbert Buhain of Philippine Coastal Storage and Pipeline Corp., Ryan Griva (Subic Enerzone Corp.), Charo Guerrero (Polarmarine Inc.), Mark Anthony Magno (Subic Marine Exploratorium, Inc.), Christine Manamtam (Wistron Infocomm Phils. Corp.), Dandy Millama (Wistron Infocomm Phils. Corp.), Jed Sprint Pino (Pacific Ocean Underwater Solutions, Corp.), Maria Luisa Pulanco (Nicera Phils. Corp.), Daisy Tagpines (Wistron Infocomm Phils. Corp.), and Virginia Umbina (Subic Water and Sewerage Co., Inc.).

SBMA Chairman Roberto Garcia, who was guest speaker in the event, described the outstanding workers as “heroes of the Freeport” for their role in making Subic a catalyst in the economic development of the country.

“If all the workers would follow the examples the ten outstanding workers had shown, I am confident that the Philippines would have a very bright future ahead,” he said.

“Kayo ang nagpapakita kung gaano kagaling ang mga manggagawang Pilipino,” Garcia added.

Meanwhile, Oquiñena lauded the winners for their legacy of excellence. “Because of the stories you have shared with us, you made us more proud to be Filipinos. Thank you for being a source of good news about the Filipino,” Oquiñena said.

According to SBWFI records, the 10 outstanding workers were cited for their exemplary performance on the job. Buhain, who his known among colleagues as the “Action Man,” co-authored the formulation of an activated-carbon system to eliminate gas fumes and is widely acknowledged for his accurate and precise designs and execution of innovative projects.

Meanwhile, Griva was recognized for initiating Subic Enerzone’s Adopt-an-Area Program that made power distribution in the Freeport more efficient and reliable.

Magno, an assistant supervisor at Ocean Adventure’s Creative and Performing Arts Section, conceptualized and developed artistic direction for shows that made every visit to the said marine theme park a lasting and memorable experience.

On the other hand, Manamtam is an ISO14001 coordinator who authored different ISO and departamental procedures elevating the quality of performance standard at Wistron Infocomm.

Safety supervisor Millama, meanwhile, was able to maintain company-wide zero-accident mark through the creation of effective health and safety procedures.

Pino, who firmly believes that “no job is too difficult to handle if one truly believes in his self,” is an employee who stopped a fire accident that saved the life of a co-employee, as well as company properties.

A proactive and persistent leader, Pulanco contributed excellent ideas for process improvement that greatly enhanced work flow and created an effective production system. It also gained her the highest performance appraisals from her Japanese supervisors at Nicera Phils.

Guerrero, who handles quality management system and ISO programs, managed to boost her organization’s performance to reach sales of US$852,700, which is 39% higher than that at the time she assumed the post in 2008.

A key person in the management section, Tagpines was instrumental in gaining ISO9000, ESD S2020 and DELL QPA certification, and equipping her company with fruitful knowledge both in manufacturing and after-sales service operations.

Meanwhile, Umbina, a hardworking employee who rose from the ranks to become one of her company’s dedicated supervisors, ensures that all Subicwater’s 35,757 customers are billed correctly and on time.

The search for the 10 Outstanding Freeport Workers is an annual recognition program that started in 2001. The awarding coincides with the celebration of the turnover of the former US Naval Base to the Philippine government and the start of operation of the Subic Bay Freeport. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:
Awardees in this year’s search of the Ten Outstanding Freeport Workers proudly display their trophies during a ceremony held at Ayala Mall’s Harbor Point, highlighting the 20th anniversary celebration of the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

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Abad books slot to 2013 World Games

MIRASOL Abad made history for Philippine duathlon when she earned a sport in the 2013 World Games in Colombia with a strong third place finish in the Century Tuna ASTC Asian Duathlon Championships yesterday at the Subic Bay Freeport.

Competing against the best from Japan, Abad, a 27-year-old native of Davao City, engaged two-time Olympian Ai Ueda in a neck-and-neck race only to lose steam in the final two kilometers of the run leg.

“She (Ueda) maintained her strong pace in the last two kilometers so I decided to slow down to ensure I’ll be able to finish the race. I was really expecting to do well after a second place finish in the Malakoff Powerman, Malaysia last week and I’m very much satisfied with a third place finish,” said Abad, who negotiated the 10K run, 40K bike and 5K run event in 2:01.57.

A multi-awarded triathlete seeing action in only her second duathlon race, Ueda, 29, led from start to finish and won in 2:00:54 while teammate Eri Miyazawa outsprinted Abad in the last 150 meters to claim the silver medal in 2:01:47.

“It was a fruitful hosting as Abad became the first duathlete from the Philippines to compete in a World event. We will try to look for a good duathlon coach from abroad to help train Abad,” said TRAP president Tom Carrasco Jr.

John Chicano, 21, clocked (1:42:55) and joined Robinson Estevez (1:43:43) and Nikko Huelgas (1:44:11) in sweeping the men’s Under 23 Elite competition while Cebu’s Justine Chiongbian (37:51) and Olongapo’s Jose Nobles (37:54) posted a one-two finish in the mini-sprint race as they atoned for the poor performance of the men’s elite team.

The top five in the elite divisions advanced to the World Games, with former Asian champion Airi Sawada (2:04:57) and Joyce Cheung of Hong Kong (2:07:11) completing the cast in the female elite class of the event backed by Century Tuna and supported by the Philippine Sports Commission, Fitness First, Asian Centre for Insulation Philippines, Standard Insurance and Gatorade.

“I’m very happy with the win since I am a triathlete racing only in duathlon for the second time,” said Ueda, a Beijing and London Olympics veteran who bagged the Asian women’s title.

Sergey Yakovlev of Russia, despite arriving in the country barely 24 hours before the race, dominated Japanese rivals Yuka Fukaura and Morimichi Iihoshi and topped the men’s elite class with a time of 1:43:14.

Fukaura settled for second, just four ticks behind, and retained his Asian title Iihoshi finished third in 1:43:41. Japan’s Tadashi Mori (1:43:44) and Thomas Bruins of Netherlands (1:44:27) completed the top five in the men’s elite class.

Ryan Mendoza, the 2006 Asian champion, emerged as the top Filipino in the elite race, finishing seventh in 1:46:59.

National pool member Victoria Deldio won a silver medal in the female mini-sprint (43:51). Malaysian Zoe Bowder won the gold in 43:28. (Malaya)

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Official Statement by the SBMA Board of Directors on the alleged waste dumping incident in Subic Bay

For the information of the public, and in the interest of truth and fairness, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) wishes to clarify and emphasize the following points contrary to some very damaging reports which have recently appeared in media.

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SBMA honors volunteers in celebration of 20th Subic Freeport anniversary

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) celebrated the 20th founding anniversary of the Subic Bay Freeport this week by honoring volunteers who helped develop the country’s first free port.

The SBMA, led by chairman and administrator Roberto Garcia, gave a fitting tribute to the pioneer volunteers who worked hard in protecting the facilities left here by the US Navy in 1992 and converting the former naval base into a special economic zone.

A special flag-raising ceremony held on Monday kicked off the week-long anniversary celebration, which included other activities like the Subic 20th Anniversary Photo Contest and Exhibit, as well as the Great Subic Weekend Sale organized by the local business community.

The week was capped with a thanksgiving mass and a recognition ceremony for the 290 volunteers who have been with the SBMA for the past 20 years, as well as ten pioneer investors who began operating in the Freeport in 1992-1993.

The ceremony was followed by the traditional lighting of the Christmas tree to start the Christmas season here, a fireworks display and an anniversary concert.

“Without the volunteers, the Freeport would not be the way it is today,” Garcia said. “The volunteers have a very, very significant role in creating a modern and progressive Subic Freeport.”

Garcia also noted that in the past 20 years Subic has grown into a premier logistics, tourism and investments hub, with over 1,500 locators doing their business in the Freeport and generating close to 90,000 jobs.

“Subic Bay Freeport is now very vibrant, a very exciting place especially now that a lot of attention has been focused on the Philippines because of reforms initiated by the Aquino administration,” he said.

Garcia also stressed that Subic helped thrust the country to the forefront of the global shipbuilding industry by enlisting Hanjin Heavy Industries Corporation among its business locators, thereby making the Philippines the base of the fourth largest shipbuilding facility in the world.

Garcia added that he hopes to achieve the vision of making Subic the premier free port in Asia by enforcing good governance.

“Together with the board of directors we have been working very hard not just to achieve economic success, but also to achieve the vision of Subic under a program of good governance following the President’s program of ‘Daang Matuwid’,” he said. “This sets the right business climate for investors to come in and invest in Subic.”

In 1991, the Congress passed Republic Act 7227 or the Bases Conversion and Development Act, which created the Subic Bay Freeport and Special Economic Zone, and mandated the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority to govern the free port.

Subic, which was previously the biggest American military base outside the United States mainland, was formally turned over to the Philippines when the US naval forces left on November 24, 1992 after the Philippine Senate rejected the extension of the RP-US Bases Treaty. (FMD/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:
SBMA Chairman Roberto Garcia leads a special flag-raising ceremony on Monday in honor of Subic volunteers, which served to kick off the week-long celebration of the 20th anniversary of the Subic Bay Freeport. Assisting him are SBMA senior deputy administrator for operations Ramon Agregado, SBMA deputy administrator for business Raul Marcelo, and members of the SBMA Law Enforcement Department.

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Subic seen hub for general aviation

It was November 24, 1991 when the last American jet fighter took off from Subic, marking the end of their military stay, but now a new breed of jet have taken over the Subic Bay International Airport (Sbia)--business jets.

“This is our blueprint, to see our airport as a bustling hub for general aviation,” says Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) chairman Robert Garcia.

The former US military base cum- industrial-commercial complex turns 20 years old this November 24th.

“I will go very strongly into general aviation, which includes charters, flight training schools and corporate jets, he said, adding that logistical services, aircraft refurbishing and repair are also the ideal businesses for the SBIA.

With more than US$8 billion in foreign investment, Subic Bay remains the country’s top attraction in the foreign investment community.

Leading the pack in this mixed commercial and military thrust is Aviation Concepts, a charter jet firm, whose clients are as diverse as their fleet of commercial fixed wing aircraft.

“Most of our clients are in Asia. They are the corporate executives who need to shuffle from place to place quickly, efficiently, and comfortably,” says Joel Edmonton, Aviation Concepts general manager.

Edmonton witnessed the airport’s ups and downs. A Subic-based a US Navy pilot for 26 years, he led Federal Express’ team as chief pilot until the courier giant decided its business was better off in China.

“Because of national defense considerations, we would have to operate SBIA as a mixed use aerodrome,” Garcia explained, “meaning it might be used as a jumping off point for fighter squadrons, side-by-side with commercial jet charters.”

Just recently, the US Navy leased portions of the airport terminal to support its troops participating in the joint American-Filipino military exercises.

Garcia says Aviation Concepts fits with the SBMA plan, noting that corporate jet charter is a huge business: “Malaking negosyo ang magpa-charter.”

Globally the charter industry is worth about US$15 billion and growing significantly. The industry is forecasting nearly 10,000 new business jet deliveries worth about $250 billion from 2012 to 2022 with some 700 jet to be delivered to buyers this year.

The Asia Pacific region grew double digit during the past five years, according to Honeywell’s Aviation Business, and SBMA, with 200 hectare facility, together with Aviation Concepts, are prepared to catch some of the business.

Operating out of a former Fedex hangar, the firm manages seven jets, employs 51 workers, including six American pilots. The company operates throughout Asia and other parts of the world.

“Our aircraft are based here, we’re in Subic for the long haul,” Edmonton said. (Malaya)

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All Set For Asian Duathlon

Duathletes from Jordan, Syria and Iran are likely to crowd Continental powerhouse Japan for the elite honors in the Century Tuna ASTC Asian Duathlon Championships on Nov. 25 at Subic Bay Freeport.

Japan’s Yuya Fukaura and Morimichi Lihoshi, ranked Nos. 33 and 59, respectively, in the world, will be challenged by Jordan’s Isha bi Abedalaziz, Syria’s Samir Hajazi and Iran’s Mohammad Ashgari Khatooni for the men’s title.

Out to stop London Games veteran Ai Ueda of Japan in the distaff side are Iran’s Roghaye Sharifi and Zeinab Agha Hasan Nooshbadi and Singapore’s Zhiyun Lin.

Sharifi and Nooshabadi are Iran’s first elite female duathletes and their participation is a first in Asian duathlon history.

Mirasol Abad and Monica Torres, who was previously ranked No. 4 in the world, will spearhead the country’s campaign along with Augusto Benedicto and Javier Robeno.

Airman Ryan Mendoza topped the continent’s premier 10-kilometer run-40km bike-5km run grind in 2006.

Spicing the event sponsored by the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Tourism Department, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), Fitness First, Asian Center for Insulation Philippines (ACIP), Standard Insurance and Gatorade, are non-Asian duathletes vying for the limited qualifying slots staked for the 2013 Duathlon World Championships (World Games) in Colombia.

Brazil’s Andre Dos Santos (world number 46), Russia’s Sergey Yakovlev, the Netherlands’ Thomas Bruins and Great Britain’s Steve Lumley will see action in the international category. ( Manila Bulletin)

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OFFICIAL STATEMENT OF THE SBMA ON HAZARDOUS WASTE DUMPING ISSUE

Official Statement from the SBMA

For the information and safety of the public, contrary to what has been implied, there is no evidence that any toxic waste such as nuclear, chemical or similar hazardous waste has been discharged in the confines of Subic Bay. Neither is there evidence that oily wastes or sewage wastes have been dumped in our waters. Latest tests show that Subic Bay’s waters remain clean, safe, and continue to be within normal levels.

On the issue of oily water waste and sewage, our initial investigation shows the following:

1. On the oily/bilge water, the same has been hauled by an accredited waste hauler and brought to an accredited waste treatment plant. We are still in the process of determining if all oily/bilge water has been treated properly and is covered by the necessary certificates of treatment.

2. Based on the investigation of the ship logs by the Seaport Department, the raw untreated domestic waste water has been discharged in the high seas, approximately seventeen (17) nautical miles from the nearest land point – beyond the minimum twelve (12) nautical mile boundary set in the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL).

We are coordinating with other concerned agencies to verify compliance with other regulatory requirements which may be related to this matter. A formal report will be issued subsequently.

We wish to reiterate that the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority is committed to protecting the environment of Subic Bay and will continue to ensure that all environmental laws are respected and complied with.

Issued this 12nd day of November 2012. Quezon City.

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DoT declares Subic as ‘Premier Convention Capital of Central Luzon’

The Department of Tourism (DoT) has declared the Subic Bay Freeport as the “Premier Convention Capital of Central Luzon” under its nationwide campaign to promote the country’s natural tourism attractions and cultural assets.

According to DoT Region III Director Ronaldo P. Tiotuico, the Subic Bay Freeport became the DoT’s “unequivocal choice” for the region’s convention capital following an assessment of all the convention facilities in Central Luzon.

“We are looking at the Subic Bay Exhibition & Convention Center (SBECC) as the most logical venue (for conventions, exhibitions, meetings and incentive travels) in consideration of its significantly spacious convention halls and meeting rooms, and a wide array of generally acceptable standard facilities and amenities suitable for big-ticket events like international conventions and conferences,” Tiotuico said in a letter to Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Roberto Garcia.

“After a careful and in-depth evaluation of all convention facilities in the region, I am pleased to announce our unequivocal choice of Subic Bay Freeport as the Premier Convention Capital of Central Luzon,” he added.

Tiotuico said that with the DoT’s choice of Subic as convention capital, this free port will receive “all the accompanying promotional support and back-up activities to enable Subic to become the premier destination for conventions and conferences.”

These will include the production and distribution of a regional convention planners guide, technical assistance in tendering bids, as well as support to planning and management of conventions.

Tiotuico said that the DoT, under the leadership of Secretary Ramon Jimenez Jr., is aiming to draw an additional one million foreign tourists by the end of 2013 to enable the agency to reach at least 5.5 million arrivals.

“It is for this reason that we in the regional office envision to contribute in no small measure towards the achievement of this target by drawing warm bodies into our port of entry through the holding of conventions, conferences and incentive travels and tourism,” he added.

“We are determined to focus much of our effort in attracting a special market that can draw big numbers,” Tiotuico also said.

For his part, Garcia said that the citation from the DoT “would open up a brand-new opportunity for the Subic Bay Freeport.”

He said that since building its own convention center in 2007, the SBMA has been strengthening its bid to become a premier destination for the meetings, incentive travels, conventions and exhibitions (MICE) market.

“The SBMA has been vigorously pursuing the tourism market since Day One because it has numerous natural attractions to offer, aside from the modern amenities that are uniquely placed inside a peaceful and well-maintained environment. We even have a modern international airport for chartered flights,” Garcia explained.

He said the Subic Bay Freeport has a lot of good hotels and housing units, duty-free shops, casinos, restaurants, theme parks, and two malls within its central business district; as well as a marina and yacht club, theme parks, beach resorts, facilities for water sports, cycling and car racing, a golf course, and facilities for hiking, camping and horse-riding.

In welcoming the DoT's choice of Subic as Premier Convention Capital of Central Luzon, Garcia said, "This is truly very timely, as the MICE market continues to expand and tourism arrivals in the country continues to post positive growth rates."

This month, the SBMA marks the 20th year of the formal turnover of the former Subic Naval Base to the Philippine government, paving the way for the conversion and development of the area into the country’s frist free port. (HEE/SBMA-MPD)

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Top duathletes vie for Asian duathlon slots

MANILA - Over 100 top age-group duathletes from 19 countries vie for qualifying slots in the 2013 Elite Duathlon World Championships (World Games) in the Century Tuna ASTC Asian Duathlon Championships set Nov. 25 in Subic Bay.

Asian Triathlon Confederation (ASTC) members Japan, China, Korea, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, Chinese Taipei, Syria and Iran have confirmed participation in the event organized by the Triathlon Association of the Philippines (TRAP) with Malaysia set to field in 20 entries.

Duathletes from Brazil, Australia, Great Britain, France, Denmark, Germany, Russia, Canada and New Zealand have also joined the event.

As based on the rules of the International Triathlon Union (ITU), the top five male and female athletes of each ITU Continental Qualification Event will gain slots in the Elite Duathlon World Championships (World Games) set July 26-27 in Cali, Colombia. In total, 110 male and female duathletes will compete in the World Championships which was confirmed by the ASTC during its executive board meeting in Auckland, New Zealand recently.

The TRAP has also confirmed that more than 300 local participants have signed up for the event, sponsored by the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Tourism Department, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), Fitness First, Asian Centre for Insulation Philippines (ACIP), Standard Insurance and Gatorade. (The Philippine Star)

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Hanjin Heavy Phils. Delivers 2 New Bulk Carriers Worth US$12OM

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT ZONE – Hanjin Heavy Industries & Construction Co., Ltd – Philippines Inc. (HHIC-Phil) has achieved yet another remarkable milestone when it unveiled simultaneously its two newly-built 205,000 DWT Bulk Carriers at the company’s 300-hectare, state-of-the-art Subic shipyard recently.

The vessels “RTM Dampier” and “RTM Zheng He”, which was named after a British explorer and a Chinese navigator respectively, were the 3rd and 4th vessel purchased by shipping magnate Rio Tinto Shipping Limited from the Korean shipbuilding giant.

Last August, Hanjin also delivered the M/V RTM Cartier, named after a French explorer , and the M/V Cook, a 204,000 deadweight metric tons bulk carrier, to Rio Tinto in May 2012.

RTM Dampier and RTM Zheng He, whose homeport is London in the United Kingdom, measure 299.9 meters and valued approximately US$60 Million each.

HHIC-Phil senior officials, Rio Tinto top executives and ranking officers of the classification society Lloyd’s Register witnessed the event, which was capped by a rope cutting and champagne breaking rites.

In his ceremonial speech, HHIC-Phil President Jin Kyu Ahn commended the mutual partnership between Hanjin and Rio Tinto that resulted in the successful and timely completion of the two vessels.

“This momentous occasion further affirms our Filipino workforce competitiveness in the global shipbuilding”, Mr. Ahn added.

Mr. Tom Albanese, chief executive officer of Rio Tinto, lauded HHIC-Phil’s high-tech facilities and its excellent feat in shipbuilding within a short period of time that gainfully benefited his company.

Including these two new ships, HHIC-Phil has already delivered a total of 42 vessels ranging from containership ships, oil tankers to bulk carriers to various international shipping companies worldwide since the delivery of its first ever Subic-made vessel in 2008.

From 2008 to 2011, Hanjin garnered Php 128 Billion worth of export sales, making it a major contributor in the Philippines’ export portfolio.

To cushion the impact of the still depressed shipbuilding market triggered by world financial crisis on its core business, Hanjin will embark soon on ship repair by maximizing its Subic shipyard’s capabilities to offer high quality services to the maritime industry.

To date, Subic shipyard employs more than 19,000 individuals mostly coming from Olongapo City, Subic municipality, provinces of Zambales, Bataan and Pampanga, and other regions across the country. Hanjin continues to generate business opportunities in the neighboring communities, thereby propelling the revitalization of the local economy critical in nation building.

Hanjin operates a modern Skills Development Center located at SBMA’s Industrial Park that continues to hone the shipbuilding skills of its workforce. Since the inauguration of its training center in 2006, the company has catered to more than 39,000 Filipino trainees, thus helping in the National Government’s effort of promoting technical and vocational education in the country. (Manila Bulletin)

PHOTO:
HANJIN DELIVERS 2 SUBIC-MADE VESSELS – HHIC-Phil. President Jin Kyun Ahn (5th from right, 1st row) and Rio Tinto CEO Tom Albanese (9th from left, 1st row) stand beside the two vessels,“RTM Dampier” and “RTM Zheng He”, each worth about US$60 million.

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Korean ambassador, investors visit Subic to promote trade, tourism

A South Korean delegation visited this free port to help promote trade and boost tourism in the two Asian nations under the auspices of the ASEAN-Korea Centre.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Roberto Garcia welcomed the Korean delegates headed by Ambassador Hae Moon Chung during a business-to-business networking last Friday at the Subic Gateway Park here.

The event provided a venue for business discussions between the Korean businessmen and investors located at the Subic Bay Freeport.

In a meeting with Garcia, Chung explained that the ASEAN-Korea Centre serves as the de facto chamber of commerce and tourism center for ASEAN-member countries in Seoul.

He said that the center is active in conducting business-to-business networking and investment seminars for ASEAN countries.

He then invited Garcia to visit the center in Korea in order to promote tourism and invite interested investors to Subic.

Chung also noted the well-maintained facilities and structures left by the US Navy at the former naval base here, saying it was like stepping into another page of history.

Meanwhile, Atty. Ruel John Kabigting, officer in charge of the SBMA Business and Investment Group, said that the Korean group’s visit will encourage and motivate the people from the SBMA to do their job better.

“This is indicative of (the Koreans’) continuing trust and commitment to the Philippines in exploring business possibilities for our mutual benefit,” Kabigting said.

He also noted that South Korea is a major trading parter of the Philippines and both governments have established bilateral agreements. South Korea also generated the highest number of tourist arrivals in the Philippines in recent years, with more than half a million visitors arriving in 2010.

According to Ronnie Yambao, SBMA manager for Manufacturing and Maritime Business Development, the business-to-business networking is a platform utilized by several investment promotion agencies to promote their respective investment promotion areas, and SBMA is highly supportive of this initiative.

Yambao also said that the SBMA continues to provide avenues and areas of cooperation between Korean investors and Subic business locators for them to explore business opportunities wherein they can be profitable and continue to forge different areas of cooperation.

The business-to-business networking was organized by the Philippine Trade and Investment Center and the ASEAN-Korea Centre. (FMD/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:
SBMA Chairman and Administrator Roberto V. Garcia meets with Korean Ambassador Hae Moon Chung during the latter’s visit to the Subic Bay Freeport last week. Chung, who is also Secretary-General of the ASEAN-Korea Center, urged the SBMA and Subic investors to visit Korea to promote local tourism and invite investors to locate in Subic.

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SBMA: Subic Bay area ready for ‘Undas’ 2012

Travelers planning to pass through or stay in this free port for the All Saints Day break can expect a comfortable and convenient ride along the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and the Subic-Clark- Tarlac Expressway.

This was the assurance given by Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Roberto Garcia after the management of NLEX and SCTEX announced new innovations at the said expressways to make travel safe and expedient for thousands of commuters expected to go home to their respective hometowns.

Garcia said the SBMA is doing its share to make the “Undas” a worry-free holiday for travelers to Subic. These measures include the establishment of information booths and water stations along the main thoroughfares of the Freeport, and the deployment of medical and emergency response teams, as well as police patrols on 24/7 duty from October 31 to November 4.

Garcia also noted that the SBMA efforts to guarantee safe and convenient travel to and from the Subic Bay Freeport are being complemented by the Tollways Management Corporation (TMC), which manages both NLEX and SCTEX.

In a separate media interview, Buboy Valles, senior corporate communications manager of TMC, said that with the introduction of new technology on traffic management, motorists and passengers are going to enjoy their vacation in Subic and other destinations in Northern Luzon.

Valles said that among these innovations are an intensified traffic management system in both expressways, the NLEX real-time advisory system, the North Luzon Integrated Guide and Travel Advisory System (NLigtas), the use of Lakbay Norte Pass, and the installation of additional high-definition closed circuit television (HD-CCTV) units.

He explained that through Internet connectivity using cellular phones and laptop computers, motorists can get traffic updates in any part of the expressways in real time.

Meanwhile, by using the Lakbay Norte Pass, the pre-paid toll cards available for all Class-1 vehicles, motorists will no longer need to pay cash, thus speeding up transactions in toll plazas during the All Saints Day break.

At the same time, more HD-CCTV and IP-CCTV units along the highways will cover more areas, thus making emergency response easier.

Valles estimates that around 185,000 vehicles will enter NLEX and SCTEX during this year’s Undas, with traffic projected to be heavier on October 31 and on November 3 and 4.

The estimated number of vehicles using the expressways is said to be 10-15% higher than last year’s estimate of vehicles using the NLEX and SCTEX. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)

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SBMA employee returns found cheque worth P164,250

Just when we thought honesty was becoming a fading virtue, an employee of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) surrendered to the bank a P164,250-cheque that he found in a parking lot here.

“I live a Christian life and as a Christian, it is the right thing to do. And one Christian practice I value is ‘do not take what is not yours’,” said Tristan Madi, a supply officer at the SBMA Tourism Department.

Madi recalled that he was on his way to his regular workout at the Slimmers’ World on Saturday when he found a pay-to-cash cheque at the parking area of the Banco de Oro branch in this free port.

The cheque was dated October 18 and issued by an unnamed depositor of the UnionBank Angeles City branch in Pampanga.

Since it was weekend, Madi kept the cheque and waited for Monday to report the incident.

Early this week, Madi went to UnionBank Subic and surrendered the cheque that he found.

UnionBank Subic Bay Freeport branch manager Cecille Oconer, meanwhile, confirmed that they have coordinated with the Angeles City branch to inform the owner of the cheque.

“We are glad that there are still people who choose not to take advantage of the situation, especially when the said cheque was made ‘pay to cash’,” Oconer said.

She added that there were cases when lost cheques were encashed by unauthorized persons.

Madi, who is married with two kids and has been with the SBMA Tourism Department for the last 15 years, said it was his first time to find a lost cheque and would still do the same if he ever found another one.

“If it were mine and I lost it, I would have wanted it returned as well,” Madi said. (RFD/MPD-SBMA)

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Subic Freeport BoC, BIR post P95.34-M surplus in September

Two government collection agencies in this free port have reported a combined surplus of P95.34 million last month after posting a total collection of P760.14 million.

According to their periodical reports, the Bureau of Customs (BoC) here collected a total of P677.18 million in September while the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) came up with P82.96 million.

The combined BOC and BIR tallies represented a 14.34 per cent surplus over the total collection target of P664.8 million for September.

The reports also showed that BIR slightly surpassed its September 2012 goal by 1.21 per cent or P988,870, as well as the September 2011 collection of P72 million by 15.22 per cent or P10.96 million.

Still, BIR’s September collection is among the agency’s lowest monthly revenue record this year, which is topped by its April collection amounting to P139.43 million. The BIR recorded its biggest surplus in March when it exceeded its P111.52-million collection goal by 22.38 per cent.

The BIR also said it has surpassed its collection goal in six out of the nine months of the first three quarters this year.

Meanwhile, BoC-Subic reported a collection increase of 16.19 per cent over its September target. This meant an actual surplus of P94.35 million over this year’s September target.

The BOC-Subic's P677.18-million collection this year fell short by 1.56 per cent, or P10.73 million, when compared to the P687.91-million take in the same period last year.

According to BoC records, its August collection, so far, is the biggest monthly tally since January this year. It also represented the biggest comparative difference of 87.81 per cent, or P319.7 million, when placed against the collection record in the same period last year.

In terms of collection targets, the BoC recorded its biggest deficit so far in July when its collection fell 46.75 per cent short of its P604.13 million target. Its biggest surplus, on the other hand, was in August when its collection was 26.05 per cent more than its P542.46-million target.

BoC data also showed that the Port of Subic was among the small ports that posted some surplus even when the BOC here fell short of its target in September.

In fact, BoC-Port of Subic topped the nationwide collection performance for two months in a row by posting the biggest surplus of P141.33 million in August and P94.35 million in September.

From January to September, the Subic Bay Freeport already contributed to the national treasury a total of P5.78 billion, with P4.81 billion from the BoC and P966.49 million from the BIR. (RFD/MPD-SBMA)

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Biggest Ore Carrier Calls In Subic

Vale SA, the iron ore producer operating the world's biggest ships, said one of them called at the port of Subic in the Philippines, extending the number receiving the vessels to seven.

The Vale Minas Gerais, with capacity to carry 400,000 metric tons of iron ore, arrived at Villaneuva port yesterday, Vale said in an e-mail today. The company is spending more than $8 billion to build and control a fleet of 35 of the carriers to lower its freight costs and better compete with Australian miners, who are closer to the biggest consuming region.

China buys about 65 percent of the world’s seaborne iron ore. Vale said in June its biggest ships were restricted from calling at the Asian country’s ports. The vessels already called at ports in Brazil, Oman, the Netherlands, Japan and Italy, the miner said today.

They have also discharged at a floating transfer station at Subic Bay in the Philippines.

JFE Steel Corp. took delivery of the cargo, the fourth steelmaker to do so from one of the so-called Valemaxes, according to Vale.

The ships are lowering transport costs for steelmakers in Asia with “advanced” negotiations with other customers and ports to use

them, Vale’s Executive Director for Ferrous and Strategy Jose Carlos Martins said in the statement.

Vale paid $4.20 a ton to hire a vessel to ship ore to China from Subic Bay, according to an Oct. 11 list of charters published by the Baltic Exchange, the London-based assessor of freight costs.

Vale declined to comment on that charter in an emailed response to questions on Oct. 16.

Rates for Capesize vessels carrying the commodity slid 1.7 percent today to $13,430 a day, according to the Baltic Exchange. The ships have less than 50 percent of the capacity of Valemaxes. Panamaxes, the biggest to navigate the Panama Canal’s locks, fell 1 percent to $7,142 a day.

Costs as measured by the Baltic Dry Index, a wider measure of raw materials freight rates, declined 1 percent to 989 points. (Bloomberg)

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PHIBLEX 2013 a mutual learning experience

Participants in the on-going RP-US Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX 2013) have expressed appreciation for the opportunity to learn from each other during the training exercises and civic action activities held in this free port and other nearby areas.

About 3,800 military personnel from the US Marines and various units of the Armed Forces of the Philippines are participating in the exercises, which are held variously at the Subic Bay International Airport here; Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija; Marine Barracks Gregorio Lim in Ternate, Cavite; Crow Valley in Tarlac; Naval Station Apolinario Jalandoon in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan; and the Naval Education Training Center in San Antonio, Zambales.

PHIBLEX participants also conducted four community health engagement (CHE) projects, as well as several Engineering Civic Action Program (ENCAP construction projects in Zambales and Palawan.

Lt. Taylor Clarke from the US Marines said that they are very happy about gaining new experiences by observing each other’s practices and techniques.

“We’re here to learn from each other and we are here to exchange techniques and tactics, and just to learn something new because everybody has a different way of going about something. This is the benefit we gain when we came here,” Clarke said.

He also pointed out said that during this year’s exercises, they have conducted various civic action projects, as well as building and repairing school buildings, which he said gives them a chance to work in remote areas and to interact with their Filipino counterparts.

“Honestly I’ve learned a fair amount,” he said.

Lt. Cherry Tindog from the Philippine Marines, meanwhile, sees the exercises as one way to understand each other’s unique capabilities, and to develop bonds.

“We can see that far and beyond the military side of the exercise, this exercise gives us a chance to enhance relationships on a personal level. We gained friendships and an understanding of their culture, of their work ethic, of their professional perspective. We learn from them, and they from us,” she said.

Tindog also explained the importance of conducting the exercises in enhancing disaster response, which is the focus of this year’s PHIBLEX.

“We try to enhance our capabilities and inter-operability, especially on humanitarian assistance and disaster response, considering the massive effects of the disasters that frequent our country and the Asian region,” she said. “It’s important that we operate very smoothly so that in times of disaster, we can reach out to nations that need the services that we can provide.”

As an example, Tindog cited the 2009 flooding caused by Typhoon Ondoy, noting that at that time there was a scheduled PHIBLEX exercise when the disaster struck. She said the PHIBLEX participants shifted from training to actual disaster-response to assist in rescue operations in affected areas.

“It’s a good thing that we have been doing this before, so when Ondoy happened we were ready to respond,” she said.

PHIBLEX 2013 formally commenced here on October 8, with a simple ceremony at the flight deck of USS Bonhomme Richard, an amphibious assault ship of the US Navy, which anchored at Subic’s Alava Pier.

The PHIBLEX command said the training exercises boosts the long-time partnership between the Philippines and the United States and demonstrates their commitment to mutual security.” (FMD/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:
Local visitors join Philippine military personnel in viewing US military aircraft on display at the Subic Bay International Airport Saturday morning. The static display is part of the on-going RP-US Amphibious Landing Exercise

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Enercon program saves SBMA P1.8-M in August

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has saved a total of P1.8-million last August, its biggest power consumption savings since the agency started its energy conservation program last year.

Rani Cruz, SBMA Utilities Department manager, said that barely ten months after the implementation of the agency’s power conservation measures, significant savings have become noticeable since last July.

“From P6.98-million in July, the power consumption by SBMA departments and offices went down to P5.16-million in August, or a 26-percent reduction,” Cruz noted.

He said that in terms of kilowatt hours saved, the SBMA recorded a drop of 48,417 kWh as the agency’s power consumption decreased from 711,684 kWh in July to 663,267 kWh in August.

The power deduction in August is the biggest savings achieved so far by the agency since it introduced power conservation measures in August 2011, in line with the Government Energy Management Program of the national government and the SBMA board’s directive “to implement controls to manage and/or institute austerity measures.”

A resolution issued in July 2011 by the SBMA board of directors also enjoined SBMA officials and employees to practice conservation measures and ordered that savings from the program to be partly redirected to “increase the budget for training of personnel and other expenses.”

Under the power conservation program, Cruz said the SBMA has achieved 80 per cent replacement of 40-watt bulbs to 32-watt bulb usage as required by the government.

Cruz added that the SBMA Utilities Department is undertaking strict monitoring of power consumption of SBMA departments and offices to ensure that reduced consumption is maintained.

Records showed that the SBMA spent P6.96 million for its power bills in May, P7.02 million in June with a 0.82 per cent increase, and then P6.98 million in July or a 0.63 per cent decrease.

Cruz said that the month of May was pegged to benchmark the agency’s consumption, as it was in this month when the National Power Corporation (NPC) and the Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corporation (PSALM) started charging the “Deferred Accounting Adjustment.”

Under this scheme, the newly increased generation charge will be billed for the next ten years, Cruz explained.

Aside from the generation charge, the transmission charge and system loss charge also increased during the said billing period.

Cruz also stressed the need to further cut down on power costs, but added that the SBMA has been successful in its energy conservation program because of the cooperation of employees and strict implementation by the management.

“We have to do everything that we can because the SBMA is a self-sustaining GOCC (government-owned and controlled corporation). We are not subsidized by the government. We earn what we spend,” Cruz added. (RFD/MPD-SBMA)

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Subic Bay gains recognition as superb triathlon venue

An internationally-circulated sports magazine has cited the Subic Bay Freeport as an outstanding venue for world-class racing events.

According to the July-August issue of TriMag Asia, “Subic Bay, the Philippines with its interesting course and friendly atmosphere is increasingly getting a reputation for top notch races.”

The magazine featured two big triathlon events held here in May and June, respectively – the 2012 K-Swiss ITU Subic Bay International Triathlon and the first 5i50 Century Tuna Triathlon.

Both sporting events saw more than 1,400 foreign and local triathletes competing in the professional and amateur categories.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) deputy administrator for tourism Raul Marcelo welcomed the magazine’s recognition of Subic Bay’s growing popularity as a sports destination, particularly for triathlon and other racing events.

“With our widely varied and scenic terrain and well-maintained roads that run through hilly and winding routes, as well as through our central business district, we definitely offer a unique and challenging course for racing events,” he said.

According to Marcelo, the 5i50 Century Tuna Triathlon, for instance, started in the deep portion of All Hands Beach here and took participants of the bike leg to the airport runway and several uphill climbs toward the Naval Magazine area. Meanwhile, runners had to make a break to the finish line via Subic Golf’s rain forest and the main highway of the Freeport.

Marcelo said that participants of both triathlon events found navigating these courses a thrilling and challenging experience. They also enjoyed the support of the community, which gathered along the route to cheer the participants.

Meanwhile, SBMA chairman and administrator Roberto Garcia expressed optimism for the future of sports tourism in Subic Bay, after successfully hosting both international triathlons here.

“We are surely gaining ground as far as sports tourism is concerned and we’re very proud to have hosted these two big events, both of which have brought in a lot of foreign athletes,” Garcia said.

He added that with the recognition that the Subic Freeport is now reaping in the sporting world, the Subic agency looks forward to delighting more sports competitors and organizers in the years ahead.

“We will continue to promote Subic as their best bet for triathlons, marathons, biking and all other sports events,” Garcia added. (AMF/CorpComm-SBMA)

PHOTO:
Bikers negotiate a winding road during a recent triathlon event in the Subic Bay Freeport.

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RP-US military exercise kicks off in Subic Bay Freeport

The RP-US Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX) 2013 formally commenced here in the freeport Monday with a simple ceremony at the flight deck of USS Bonhomme Richard, an amphibious assault ship of the US Navy, which anchored at Subic’s Alava Pier for the 11-day exercise.

The ceremony was witnessed by US exercise director Brig. Gen. Craig Timberlake, RP exercise director Brig. Gen. Remigio Valdez, flag officer-in-charge Vice Adm. Alexander Pama, Deputy Chief of Mission Brian Goldbeck of the US Embassy, and Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Roberto Garcia.

Both the Philippine and US military officials said they were optimistic that the annual bilateral training would enhance the common goal of regional security and readiness.

An estimated 2,200 American soldiers and members of the Philippine Marine Corps will be participating in the exercises, which will be held variously at the Subic Bay International Airport; Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija; Marine Barracks Gregorio Lim in Ternate, Cavite; Crow Valley in Tarlac; Naval Station Apolinario Jalandoon in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan; and the Naval Education Training Center in San Antonio, Zambales.

Participants from the Philippine Navy’s Air Group and Special Operation Group, the Philippine Army, and the Philippine Air Force will also be involved in the exercise.

In his message at the opening rites, Gen. Pama noted that Phiblex 2013 will serve as a venue for exchanging expertise, technology, tactics and effective procedures to ensure interoperability of the armed forces from the two nations.

Pama added that Phiblex 2013 is focused on the interoperability of the two forces in providing humanitarian assistance and disaster response in times of calamities.

The US Embassy’s Goldbeck, meanwhile, stressed the importance of the friendship binding the United States and the Philippines, adding that Phiblex “reinforces our long-time partnership and demonstrates the U.S. and Philippines’ commitment to mutual security.”

“All aspects of this Phiblex — whether they are field training, staff exercises, or civic action projects — will enable the men and women of our armed forces to work together, reinforcing our unity, and improving our ability to work as a team,” Goldbeck added.

It is also expected that thousands of residents of host communities in Zambales and Palawan will benefit from the scheduled Medical Civic Action Program (Medcap) during the exercise. Four barangays in Zambales and Palawan will also get assistance through the Engineering Civic Action Program. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTOS:
[1] United States and Philippine Marine color guards stand in attention during the opening ceremony of Phiblex 2013 aboard the US Navy amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard in the Subic Bay Freeport.

[2] Crewmen check on a Harrier fighter jet on the flight deck of the US Navy amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard, as the RP-US marine amphibious exercise Phiblex 2013 kicks off Monday in the Subic Bay Freeport.

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SBMA, Olongapo rescue teams continue earthquake training

With other rescue teams watching their moves, rescue operators from the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and Olongapo City showed off various techniques in earthquake search and rescue operations as part of their continuing training to improve their emergency command system and to impart new knowledge to fellow rescuers.

At the recent earthquake simulation exercises held at the Columban College campus in Barangay Barretto, Olongapo City the SBMA Search and Rescue Group, the Olongapo City Search and Rescue Team and the Barangay Sta. Rita (Olongapo City) Search and Rescue Unit practiced using the Incident Command System (ICS) for emergency, which designed for planned and unplanned events.

The earthquake scenario for the exercise pre-supposed that a magnitude 7.9 earthquake struck Olongapo City and damaged residential and commercial buildings. As a result, some 1,000 individuals had to be evacuated to safer grounds after a school building at Columban College in Barretto collapsed and caught fire.

The emergency responders’ primary task was to rescue the trapped persons from the damaged building which was now on fire, and bring them out of the collapsed structure.

Aside from the SBMA, Olongapo and Sta. Rita rescue units, the drill also involved the participation of the Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine National Red Cross, Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Olongapo City Police Office, James Gordon Memorial Hospital, the Department of Education, and some representatives from the 17 barangays in the city.

The exercises were observed by rescuers from San Jose City, Nueva Ecija; San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan; the Zambales Provincial Disaster Risk-Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO); Tarlac PDRRMO; Bataan PDRMMC; Meycauayan, Bulacan; Masinloc, Zambales; Balanga City Disaster Risk-Reduction and Management Council (CDRRMO); and University of Northern Philippines in Vigan City.

Olongapo City Mayor James Gordon, Jr., who chairs the Olongapo CDRRMO, congratulated the participants in the simulation training, adding the hope that the event had challenged them to strive more for excellence in the performance of their respective jobs.

“The simulation stresses the crucial role each rescue operator does in saving lives and properties in times of disaster and emergency situations,” Gordon said.

The activity was also witnessed by Region 3 director for Civil Defense Josefina Timoteo, who is also the executive director of the Regional Disaster Risk-Reduction and Management Council (DRMMC-R3); SBMA Dir. Anne Marie Gordon, and Columban College president Msgr. Crisostomo Cacho.

After the drill, Timoteo said that the participants did a “well done” job, and enjoined observers and rescue groups from other local government units to follow Olongapo and SBMA’s example and religiously practice the execution of the ICS. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:
Combined elements of the SBMA and Olongapo City search and rescue teams perform a collapsed structure search and rescue breaching method during an earthquake drill held at the Columban College in Olongapo City on September 28. The drill, witnessed by different rescue groups from Region 3, was designed to enhance quick disaster-response and preparedness operability in the event of emergencies.

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US assault ship arrives in Subic

One of the three battle groups assembled by the United States in the Asia-Pacific region arrived (yesterday) in Subic for this year’s launching of the joint amphibious landing exercises in the disputed West Philippine Sea.

Helicopter carrier USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD-6) of the US Marine Corps’ air-ground task force, escorted by two frigates, dropped anchor at the former US naval facility at Subic Bay in Zambales with 2,200 US Marines on board.

The US Marines are slated to link up with their local counterparts for the joint mock amphibious landing operations as well as land-based exercises in Palawan and Zambales.

The provinces have territorial jurisdiction over the disputed Panatag Shoal and the Kalayaan Island Group in the Spratlys.

Dubbed as Phiblex 2013, the yearly Filipino-US Marines joint drill will be simultaneously launched on Monday in Zambales.

In a statement, the US embassy said the Bonhomme Richard is in the country for a goodwill visit.

“The goodwill visit highlights the strong historic, community and military connections between the United States and the Republic of the Philippines,” the US embassy said.

The US Marine Corps air-ground task force is a powerful air, land and sea armada assembled by the US and has started operating in the Asia-Pacific region.

Aside from the 2,200 Marines, the US carrier is also carrying amphibious assault vehicles, light armored vehicles, helicopters and Harrier fighter jets.

The two others are the USS George Washington and the USS John S. Stennis carrier groups. (Jaime Laude, The Philippine Star)

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SBMA defers Subic airport conversion plan

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) had deferred its plan to convert the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA) into a recreational theme park.

Some long-term programs adopted by the agency earlier this year are being modified in view of the current economic changes affecting the Freeport, SBMA Chairman Roberto Garcia said.

SBIA is now being eyed as a forward base for the joint operations of the Philippine Air Force and the United States Air Force Pacific alliance to maintain regional balance in light of territorial disputes in the West Philippine Sea.

The Freeport’s five-year strategic plan (2012-2016) was to convert the 200-hectare SBIA into a tourism hub with amenities such as hotel-casino entertainment complex, science and technology park, duty free shops, convention center, waterfront and luxury villas, family hotels, golf course, business process outsourcing (BPO) city, theme park, yacht club, condominiums and SBMA corporate headquarters.

Amid strong opposition from public and private sectors, the agency said then that it would proceed with the plan to recover the huge financial losses of the Freeport. (CLJD/AMV-PIA3)

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SBMA cites Ayta contributions to Freeport development

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has lined up activities highlighting members of the Ayta tribes in this free port, as the agency joins in the celebration of Indigenous Peoples (IP) Month this year.

SBMA Chairman Roberto Garcia said that the activities aim to show the agency’s appreciation of the role that the Ayta communities inside the former US military base have played in the conservation and development of what is now the relatively unspoiled forested portion of the Subic Bay Freeport.

“Owing to the presence of indigenous peoples within the Subic Bay Freeport, and in appreciation of their stewardship of their ancestral land, it is only but right to accord them the gratitude and recognition that they deserve,” Garcia said.

He also expressed the SBMA's appreciation of the cooperation and support given by the indigenous Ayta tribes here to the economic development programs and projects of the agency within the Ayta’s ancestral domain.

October of every year was declared National Indigenous Peoples Month by virtue of Presidential Proclamation Order (PPO) 1906 signed by former president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on October 5, 2009.

The PPO is in pursuant of the earlier PPO No. 486, which Arroyo signed in 2003, and consistent with PPO No. 1124 issued by then President Fidel Ramos.

The order was created, “for the purpose of heightening nationwide peoples’ awareness and participation in celebration and preservation of indigenous peoples communities.”

In line with the IP Month celebration, Garcia has designated SBMA public relations manager Armie Belleza-Llamas to spearhead the preparation of a program to promote Subic Ayta culture.

This will commence with a flag-raising ceremony on October 8 in front of the SBMA main office on Waterfront Road, which shall be led by the members of the Pastolan Ayta community. Members of the Ayta Tribal Council of Sitio Pastolan in Hermosa, Bataan and the Council of Elders of Sitio Kanawan in Morong town will also be attending the ceremony.

In addition, a photo exhibit about Ayta culture and arts will be mounted at the Harbor Point Ayala Mall on October 26 to 31. Harbor Point will also be the venue of an Ayta cultural show to be highlighted by the “Ayta X-factor” singing contest on October 27.

Meanwhile, for the public to understand better the life and thoughts of the Aytas in the Subic Freeport, the SBMA radio station will conduct an interview with Pastolan tribal chieftain Conrado Frenilla and tribal elder Bonifacio Florentino.

The forum is expected to also touch on the benefits received by the Ayta tribes from the SBMA before and after the signing of the Joint Management Agreement by and among the SBMA, the Tribong Ambala Ayta ng Pastolan, and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples.

The interview will be aired over radio station 89.5 Bay FM on October 15 and the Freeport cable TV station on October 26-31.

Llamas said the program is intended to heighten the awareness of the public on the presence of indigenous people in the Freeport, and to show how both parties have looked after each other through the years. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:
Members of the Pastolan Ayta indigenous tribe in the Subic Bay Freeport enact a tribal dance for the benefit of visitors.

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More US navy ships visit Subic

At least seven United States Navy ships—a submarine, amphibious assault vessels, a helicopter carrier, and destroyers —were expected to arrive in the Philippines in the next few days to take part in a massive joint military exercises involving the two countries, officials said on Thursday.

Lt. Cherry Tindog, director of the Philippine Marine Corps Public Affairs Office, said the 10-day exercises will kick-off on October 8 near Palawan and Zambales provinces, a highly strategic area because of the territorial row between the Philippines and China over a group of islands in the West Philippine Sea.

During the maneuvers, dubbed the PH-US Amphibious Landing Exercise 2013, a US Marine air-ground task force would link up with 1,2000 Filipino troops, Tindog said.

The USS Olympia, a Los Angeles class submarine, was the first to arrive in the country. The helicopter-carrier, USS Bonhomme Rchaird, an amphibious assault ship with 2,200 US Marines, and two destroyer ships were expected to arrive at the Subic Freeport on Friday.

The amphibious landing exercise could be one of the most massive activities compared to previous PH-US Balikatan Exercises under the visiting Forces Agreement. Other than the Marine contingents, the USS Bonhomme Richard will also be carrying amphibious assault vehicles, light armoured vehicles and Harrier fighter jets.

Philippine participants in the exercise will include the Marines, the Army, the Air Force, the Navy Air Group and Special Operation Group, Tindog said.

He said the exercises in the Palawan area—which has territorial jurisdiction over the Spratly’s and Zambales, which considers the Panatag Shoal as part of the province—were intended “to enhance the strong defense partnership between the Philippines and the United States.” (Willie E. Capulong, Manila Standard Today)

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Red Cross turns up new batch of health workers

Subic Bay Freeport - The Philippine National Red Cross Zambales Chapter trained 245 Barangay Health Workers (BHWs), midwives and volunteers on basic mother and child care, disease control and first aid treatment, through a four-day workshop supported by Redondo Peninsula Energy Inc. (RP Energy).

The series of lectures, dubbed KliniKaBarangay Health and Wellness Training, is in line with RP Energy’s thrust to improve health care services within the 16 barangays of Subic and Pastolan Village, an Aeta community in Zambales province.

The training program was able to establish 17 quick response teams that will become “frontliners” in providing maternal care and implementing disease prevention in their respective barangays.

The participants were awarded with KliniKaBarangay Health and Wellness kits composed of BHW uniforms, a cellphone, list of hotline numbers, first aid equipment, a maternal health starter set and KliniKaBarangay Quick Reference Guide for everyday operations.

“With the proper training and health equipment, these KliniKaBarangay health advocates can now effectively initiate health promotion and disease prevention as well as establish other quick response teams in their respective barangays,” said RP Energy project manager Grant Smith. (Anthony Bayarong, Manila Times)

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Another US submarine to dock in Subic

A submarine of the Los Angeles class design, USS Olympia (SSN 717), will arrive in Subic Bay Thursday for a routine port call, the United States embassy said in a statement.

The US Embassy said that the port visit highlights the strong historic, community, and military connections between the US and the Philippines.

This visit will allow the ship to replenish supplies as well as give the crew an opportunity for rest and relaxation.

The USS Olympia SSN 717 set sail in February 1986 to her home in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. She is the second United States ship to bear the name in honor of the city of Olympia, Washington.

Original USS Olympia was commissioned in 1895 and, as part of the Asiatic fleet, became the flagship of Commodore George Dewey at the Battle of Manila Bay in 1898.

No further details were given to the media. (Anthony Bayarong, The Philippine Star)

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US aviation firm sees big growth in air ambulance

An American aviation company sees good growth prospects for the air ambulance service it started last July in Subic.

It just brought in a second aircraft for the air 911 service.

The Philippines, according to Scotty Watson, Carejet Assist program director, is central to the company’s service in Asian countries like Hong Kong, Taiwan, China, Vietnam and Guam.

Watson said they intend to cash in on a vast pool of clients in Asia-Pacific and in North and Central Pacific, particularly with the tourism boom in Asia.

“The way tourism is going in Asia-Pacific, particularly diving and fishing, we can make air ambulance work,” he said, adding their firm is receiving an average of two to three calls a week from clients.

He said the air ambulance business is ideal in the Philippines where medical treatment is cheaper while offering quality service.

“We have a good spectrum of medical professionals. Your doctors here are very excellent,” he said.

The firm also caters to AIG, considered the biggest insurance company in the world.

Carejet was tapped by American-owned Aviation Concepts, based in Subic to implement the air ambulance project.

Aviation Concepts is run by his friend, Terry Habeck, president and chief executive officer. Habeck said that they may also venture into potential markets like Korea, Taiwan, Japan, Vietnam and Cambodia.

Air ambulance assets include a fixed-wing seven-seater jet converted into an intensive care unit which offers patients safe and on-time, bedside-to-bedside transport. It is manned by a team of doctors, nurses and is equipped with state-of-the art facilities providing basic life support, advanced life support, pediatric advanced life support, critical care transport and specialty neo-natal care.

While it is still a fledgling industry in the Philippine, air ambulance is a common transport facility in the US. It is considered a better aerial vehicle than helicopters since it is faster, more spacious, has less noise and vibration, less weather-dependent, less costly, can operate 24/7 and is highly recommended for journeys of up to 240 kilometers.

An air ambulance service is considered more significant as it can cover a large region, including remote areas where there are few hospitals, inadequate ground transport or other problems such as poor roads or communications.

Aside from providing medical services, air ambulance also provides repatriation through coordination with other commercial airlines. He said over the past two weeks, they have brought in patients from Copenhagen and London.

Watson said their West-Wind aircraft has a range of 2,000 nautical miles and piloted by American, Japanese and Filipinos experts.

Watson started the air ambulance business in his native New Zealand in 1991. He teamed up with Habeck who enticed him to put up a medical service company in Makati and working with insurance and medical companies.

In the Philippines he met his future wife, Gelmi at the Clark Freeport Zone and decided to settle here.(Jay Chua, Malaya)
Photo:
The air ambulance is a seven-seater jet converted into an intensive care unit which offers patients safe and on-time, bedside-to-bedside transport.

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Foresters urged to be vigilant

Stressing the need to protect the remaining forests in the country, Society of Filipino Foresters, Inc. (SFFI) national council president Renato De Rueda urged fellow foresters to be vigilant in performing their duty as guardians of the environment.

De Rueda issued this challenge during the recent “National Summit Conference on Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade”, which was held at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center here to mark the 64th founding anniversary of the SFFI.

De Rueda said that forests need to be protected from the abusive exploitation of natural resources, because they can yield so much beneficial products if properly taken care of.

“Kailangan nating mapangalagaan ito laban sa mga gustong sumira ng ating mga kabundukan, kasama na dito ang illegal na pagto-troso at pagkuha ng iba’t-ibang produkto ng kagubatan, at pagkakaingin,” he said as he addressed convention delegates.

“Kailangan po natin ng mga mabubuting pamamaraan para mapangalagaan ang ating kagubatan,” he added.

At the same time, De Rueda noted that forest protection is often a very difficult and dangerous job, and has claimed the lives of several foresters since 2010.

“Mayroon na po tayong labing-apat na kamatayan dahil sa pagtatanggol sa ating kagubatan, sa pagseserbisyo sa ating bayan,” he said.

Still, it is the foresters who should lead the people in protecting the environment, he insisted.

“Kung mayroon pong dapat na manguna sa pangangalaga ng ating mga kagubatan, dapat ay tayong mga Filipino foresters. Kailangan po nating magkaisa para tulungan ang Inang Bayan sa pamamagitan ng epektibong pamamahala sa mga natitira pang mga kabundukan at para tulungang lumago ang ating mga kagubatan,” he said.

De Rueda said that towards this end, topics like forest law enforcement that were tackled in the convention would help foresters in performing their duties.

Meanwhile, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) senior deputy administrator Ramon Agregado thanked members of the SFFI for doing their job in protecting the environment, and assured them that the SBMA will do its part as well.

“From our end we can assure you that SBMA will continue to do more than its fair share in protecting, preserving and managing this heavily-forested paradise that is Subic Bay,” he said.

The SFFI was founded in 1948 and aims to represent and promote the science, technology, education, practice and business of forestry in the Philippines. It currently has 8,000 members from across the country. (FMD/MPD-SBMA)

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US Navy & Smart in reforestation efforts in Subic

Military servicemen joined Smart Communications, Inc. and its sister-firm Tollways Management Corp. in their reforestation efforts in Subic Bay as part of the US Navy’s community service.

The volunteer-sailors from USS Hawaii and USS Frank Cable were on a routine port visit in the Philippines recently.

Chief Select Jonathan Palmer said this was the first tree-planting activity that the Navy servicemen participated in as a group.

“Most of the time, we go to an elderly folks’ home and we do some cleaning and we entertain them. This is something really different from what we’ve done before as part of our program to help and give back to the communities. It’s good to help protect the environment and plant the national tree of the Philippines. I think everyone here will remember this.”

Narra seedlings were planted during the activity. (Kabalikat News & Features/Smart)

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