NEW CLARK CITY, Philippines — The Philippine Pharma Procurement, Inc. (PPPI) and the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) officially entered into a strategic partnership on March 25, Wednesday, marking a significant leap toward transforming the Philippines into a regional hub for pharmaceutical manufacturing and life sciences. The two agencies signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to undertake a comprehensive collaborative study for the development of specialized pharmaceutical economic zones. The initiative will explore strategic business opportunities within the Clark Civil Aviation Complex (CCAC) in Pampanga and New Clark City in Tarlac. The signing sets in motion efforts to stimulate industrial development in these areas, particularly in pharmaceutical manufacturing, medical equipment production, cold chain logistics, and research and development. This is in sync with the Marcos administration’s goal of accelerating ecozone development to create jobs, attract investments, expand growth in regions outside Metro Manila, and support inclusive economic progress. Building a “factory-to-port” ecosystem The partnership seeks to address the Philippines’ long-standing reliance on imported medicines by creating a dedicated ecosystem for pharmaceutical manufacturing, research, and distribution. By integrating the world-class logistical advantages of the Clark airport complex with the industrial capacity of New Clark City, the BCDA and PPPI aim to create a seamless “factory-to-port” environment. This collaboration serves as a key expansion of PPPI’s vision for the national pharmaceutical industry. It directly complements PPPI’s ongoing partnership with the Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) for the development of the Pharmaceutical Logistics Hub at CIAC. “This signing bridges the gap between logistics and manufacturing,” said PPPI President and CEO Maria Blanca Kim B. Lokin. “By studying the feasibility of specialized pharma-ecozones, we are not just building warehouses; we are creating a high-tech environment where research, production, and global distribution can thrive in one place.” Enhancing healthcare supply chains The study will focus on several high-impact areas designed to attract both global and local investment. It will begin with site identification, locating optimal areas within New Clark City and CCAC for state-of-the-art manufacturing plants and R&D laboratories. It will also emphasize logistical integration, leveraging Clark International Airport to ensure rapid, temperature-controlled transit of pharmaceutical products. Finally, the study will address incentive frameworks, creating a competitive environment to attract global pharmaceutical giants while supporting local drug manufacturers. “Developing pharmaceutical ecozones is a key priority for BCDA in Clark. By positioning Clark as an integral part of the country’s healthcare ecosystem, we are improving access to medicines, fostering innovation, and enhancing the nation’s capacity to meet healthcare needs. At the same time, this initiative supports high-value job creation, attracts investment, and stimulates inclusive and sustainable growth for the Philippines,” said BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang. Economic and social impact Beyond healthcare, the development of these specialized zones is expected to be a major economic driver for Central Luzon. The project is projected to generate thousands of high-value jobs for Filipino scientists, pharmacists, and engineers, further strengthening the country’s specialized workforce.    

TARLAC, Philippines — Tarlac, the heart of Central Luzon, is rapidly growing with expanding schools, thriving businesses, and increasing tourism – driving a greater need for reliable mobile connectivity in the province. Residents, enterprises, and visitors are relying more on mobile services for work, learning, and entertainment, making fast and stable internet essential for everyday life. The province is seeing significant infrastructure and development projects that are shaping its economic landscape. Major initiatives include the Capas-Botolan Road, a 68-kilometer corridor expected to cut travel time between Tarlac and Zambales from three hours to just over an hour by 2025. In Tarlac City, large-scale industrial estates and mixed-use townships are under development, alongside new manufacturing facilities and modern residential-commercial communities. Ongoing investments in Tarlac State University further enhance educational infrastructure, with laboratory refurbishments and building expansions supporting the next generation of talent. To address this demand, Globe is accelerating network upgrades across the province in 2025 and 2026. Additional LTE and 5G sites are being deployed to deliver faster speed and more consistent mobile experiences throughout Tarlac. The new build and expansion improved coverage and capacity in key municipalities including Tarlac City, Capas, Concepcion, Gerona, Victoria, Paniqui, Mayantoc, San Jose, Moncada, Santa Ignacia, La Paz, Camiling, Bamban, San Clemente, Pura, San Manuel, Ramos, and Anao. Residents can now enjoy smoother browsing, clearer calls, and quicker uploads and downloads, enabling seamless connectivity for work, school, and leisure activities. Joel Agustin, Head of Service Planning and Engineering at Globe, highlighted the importance of the upgrades. He said that Tarlac blends cultural heritage with modern business and lifestyle opportunities, and Globe is committed to providing seamless connectivity for everyone, whether at work, in school, or exploring the province’s tourism destinations. The new network strengthens coverage and delivers fast, reliable mobile experiences for both residents and visitors. The enhanced network also allows customers to take full advantage of Globe’s mobile offers. Globe users can enjoy GO+99 and UNLI 5G 50, while TM subscribers can access TM EasySURF50 5G for affordable, dependable connectivity. These offers support streaming, online learning, digital entrepreneurship, and daily communication, making mobile services more accessible and convenient. Local businesses and institutions also benefit from the network expansion. Companies gain operational efficiency, schools gain better support for digital learning, and tourists experience smoother online access for navigation, bookings, and content sharing. Globe’s continued investments are recognized by independent industry analysis. The company maintains its title as the Most Consistent Network in the Philippines according to Ookla, reflecting the reliability subscribers experience nationwide. As Tarlac develops into a hub for commerce and tourism, Globe’s network upgrades ensure communities remain digitally empowered. By combining robust infrastructure with accessible mobile services, Globe supports the province’s progress and helps residents stay connected in an increasingly digital world.      

Subic Bay Freeport, Philippines – A sister port agreement between the Port of Subic and the Port of Antwerp-Bruges is being considered during the visit of delegates from the Embassy of Belgium to the Philippines here on March 16, 2026. Belgian Ambassador Her Excellency Vladislava Iordanova paid a visit along with officials from the Port of Antwerp-Bruges International (PoABI), the consultancy and investment subsidiary of the Port of Antwerp-Bruges. During their visit, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) team, led by Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño, proposed a Sister Port Agreement between the two ports to enhance the traditional friendship between the SBMA and the PoABI. The Port of Antwerp-Bruges is the largest petrochemical cluster in Europe and the second-largest in the world; it is also the largest car-handling port in Europe, handling more than 3 million cars per year. It has two oil refineries and is a frontrunner in the energy transition. The port is also a driver of economic growth with 4.5% GDP contribution and a total annual throughput of +370 million tonnes, including +13 million TEUs. Meanwhile, the Subic Bay Freeport has several locators with European Equity, including Agila NY Naval Inc. and Agila South Inc. from the Netherlands, with a combined investment commitment of US$350 million. Other notable companies inside the Freeport with EU Equities include PMNFTC Inc. from Switzerland with US$7M committed investment; Luxury Subic Home Development Corp. from Belarus with US$1M committed investment; and Schenker Philippines Inc. from Germany with US$0.9M committed investment. (30)      

By Ruben A.Veloria IBA, ZAMBALES, Philippines – In compliance with the Memorandum Circular from the Office of the President, the provincial government of Zambales is to implement strict energy conservation scheme amidst possible global energy crises due to on-going conflict in the oil-rich Middle East. Issuing the Executive Order, Zambales Gov. Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. directed all provincial offices and facilities to immediately implement “stringent energy conservation measures and adopt flexible work arrangements”. The EO is in compliance to the Memorandum Circular No. 114, series of 2026, from the Office of the President, which calls on all government agencies to significantly reduce electricity and fuel consumption. “With the volatility of global fuel prices and the rising demand for energy, we in the provincial government must lead by example,” Governor Ebdane stated. This order ensures continuous delivery of essential services to the people of Zambales, he added. Among the measures to be observed include: maintaining air-conditioning thermostats at a strict 24°C, switching off non-essential lights and electronics during lunch breaks and after hours, and utilizing power-saving settings on all office equipment; limiting official travel and out-of-town seminars, promoting virtual meetings. A Four Day A Week work schedules was also to be implemented at the Capitol Offices from Monday to Friday; while Fridays will be Work From Home scheme. Requiring skeletal force on Fridays are the provincial front line offices, including Provincial Accounting Office, Treasury, Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), and General Services Office. Hospitals and Emergency Services Exempted Critically, all provincial hospitals—including President Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Hospital (PRMMH), San Marcelino District Hospital (SMDH), Candelaria District Hospital (CDH), and Ospital ng Sta. Cruz (OSC)—will continue 24/7 operations with no disruption to patient care. Gov. Ebdane is encouraging the local government units and agencies to implement measures to support the call of the President on energy saving, especially petroleum consumption, while the crisis in the Middle East intensifies. Meanwhile, the Zambales Police Provincial Office (ZPPO) warned against fuel hoarding or illegal transactions on petroleum products in support to Department of Energy (DOE) actions to maintain the fair distribution of gasoline supplies. PCOL Benjamin P. Ariola, Provincial Director ng ZPPO, delivery of petroleum products may be delayed, and hoarding will cause artificial shortages in the market which may cause severe effect to consumers and businesses. Col. Ariola instructed all police stations in the province to coordinate with the local officials to monitor the operations of the gasoline stations to make sure that they comply with the law. According to Col. Ariola, hoarding or over pricing of petroleum products are in violation of Batas Pambansa Blg. 33 and Presidential Decree No. 1865.

By Ruben A. Veloria   ZAMBALES, Philippines – Zambales Governor Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. was unanimously elected on Wednesday as chairman of the Boy Scout of the Philippines- Ramon Magsaysay Zambales Council (RMZC), in a meeting held at Balin Sambali, in Iba, this province. Regional Scouting Director (RSD) Michael Indoma, RYDO V, administered the oath taking of Gov. Ebdane as RMZC Chairman, together with 11 other newly elected officers. The ceremony was witnessed by DEPED Zambales OIC-School Division Superintendent William Fallorin. In his acceptance message, Ebdane promised to initiate programs that would encourage more young leaders to join as scouting leaders of the Boy Scout of the Philippines. Among these programs, include eliminating the concept “kung sino lang ang may pambili ng uniform, sila lang ang pwedeng maging scouts”, and conduct of scouting-related trainings for promotion in ranks. “From this day on, we will find ways to raise funds for the RMZC. Because there are so many students who wanted to become scouts, but have no money to buy their own uniforms. We will let them join BSP, and we will provide them scouting uniforms,” RMZC Chairman Gov. Ebdane said. He also encouraged all scouting leaders and leaders to undergo the leadership training and skills development programs to be implemented soon by the RMZC, as these will be used as basis for promotions in ranking. “We will make promotions in ranking be based on scouting training and skills, and time in service. No scouts shall be promoted without passing the scrutiny of the panel of the RMZC Board,” he said. He added that to be promoted, the scout leader must be well equipped of the skills of survival, and knowledgeable of team leadership and management. Other new elected officers of the RMZC Council are: Engr. Ferdie Dagsaan (1st Vice-Chairman), George Acupan (2nd Vice Chairman), Emmanuel Adaoag (Treasurer), Loida Medrano (Asst. Treasurer), and Allan Carbonel (Auditor); sworn in as Board Members: Jay Morados, Dr. Romeo Fastidio, SB Doris Ladines, Pastor Ferlipe Laderas, Rolex Estella and Engr. Julio Arbolente. Meanwhile, for Private Sector Board Members, include Ann Yap, Daimary Palaganas, Ariel Cervantes, Engr. Glenn Manangan, SB Jay Dilag, Richard Doctolero, Melinda Punzalan, Lilia Rosete, and Edel Beltran. The meeting was attended by school heads, supervisors and coordinators of the DEPED- Zambales’ 13 Schools District offices and Division Office, as well as sectoral representatives for private sector. “Good luck to RMZC Scouting Council. We are the new set of officers, a new beginning for scouting in Zambales,” Chairman Gov. Ebdane said.   Photo:  

CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, Philippines — The Clark International Airport Corp. (CIAC) has reaffirmed its strong support for Gender and Development (GAD) initiatives, underscoring the importance of sustained programs that promote gender equality, inclusivity, and women’s empowerment both within the agency and among its partner stakeholders. As part of its continuing commitment, CIAC announced the conduct of a GAD lecture-seminar on March 26 at the Clark civil aviation complex which will gather employees from companies operating within the Clark Freeport Zone. The activity forms part of the CIAC’s broader GAD advocacy and its celebration of National Women’s Month this March. CIAC President Jojit Alcazar emphasized the role of collaborative efforts in advancing gender equality, noting the participation of locator companies and their workforce is crucial in expanding awareness and strengthening inclusive workplace practices. “CIAC remains committed to supporting GAD programs that promote inclusivity and gender equality.  By engaging our locators and encouraging their employees to participate in these initiatives, we hope to further broaden awareness and reinforce the importance of equal opportunities in the workplace,” Alcazar said. Major CIAC locators, including Global Gateway Development Corp., Luen Thai International, and Outback Five Star Clark Phils., Inc., employ thousands of workers, a significant number of whom are women. CIAC said the involvement of these companies in GAD-related activities helps ensure that gender-responsive policies and practices are promoted not only within government but also in the private sector operating within the Clark Aviation Capital. CIAC GAD Focal Person and Chief Finance Officer Nancy Paglinawan stressed that the agency continues to champion the protection of women’s rights and the promotion of safe and equitable working environments. “Our GAD programs aim to strengthen awareness on non-discrimination and protection from all forms of violence, particularly against women workers. Through these activities, we hope to cascade these important principles to the private sector and encourage workplaces that are respectful, safe, and inclusive,” Paglinawan said. CIAC’s lineup of GAD-related activities this month includes a seminar on “Women’s Reproductive Health System and Diseases Affecting Women” scheduled on March 17. The agency will also conduct an outreach program titled “Serbisyo para kay Juana” on March 25 at the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-run Haven for Girls in Pampanga, further demonstrating CIAC’s commitment to community engagement and women-centered support services. Paglinawan noted CIAC’s continued efforts in implementing gender-responsive programs have gained national recognition. Late last year, the agency received an award from the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) for its exemplary implementation of GAD programs and for recording the highest organization-focused GAD budget expenditure among government-owned and controlled corporations. The National Women’s Month Celebration serves as an important platform for recognizing women’s achievements while highlighting key issues related to women’s empowerment and gender equality. This year marks the third installment of the 2023–2028 recurring campaign banner, “WE for Gender Equality and an Inclusive Society,” which calls for stronger collaboration and collective action to advance gender equality and women’s empowerment. For 2026, the celebration carries the sub-theme “Lead Like the Babaylans, Filipinas!”, drawing inspiration from the babaylans of pre-colonial Philippine society, who were regarded as wise, compassionate, and respected community leaders. Through its GAD initiatives, CIAC said it remains committed to supporting this vision by promoting inclusive development and empowering women within and beyond the Clark aviation community.        

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT, Philippines –The workforce in the country’s premier Freeport totaled 171,653 in 2025, according to the annual report by the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA). According to a report from the SBMA Labor Department, this figure reflects a 4.4 percent increase from last year’s 164,400 recorded in 2024. SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño said that the increase in the number of workers here results from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s mandate to provide more employment opportunities for Filipinos. He said that Olongapo City remains the biggest source of manpower, with 70,769 residents working here. He added that this was followed by Zambales with 31,621; Bataan with 22,897; National Capital Region with 7,077; Pampanga with 5,492; Tarlac with 2,199; and the remaining 31,598 from other parts of the country, including foreign workers. Around 70.60 percent of workers, or 121,187, are male, while the remaining 29.40 percent, or 50,466 workers, are female, and employed by 4,744 Subic companies. Despite the disparity, female workers outnumbered male workers in the manufacturing sector, with 18,951 females and 18,242 males employed across 111 manufacturing companies in Subic. Meanwhile, the Subic Bay Freeport’s services sector remains the biggest employer, which clocked at 67.32 percent of the workforce, with the manufacturing sector making up 21.67 percent. These are followed by the construction sector with 7.36 percent, and shipbuilding/marine-related services with 3.64 percent. Aliño added that the services sector also has the biggest number of companies, with 4,129, followed by the construction sector with 356 companies, then shipbuilding/ marine-related services with 148 companies, and lastly the manufacturing sector with 111 companies. He further said that more companies are still looking for employees, thru the SBMA Labor Department’s regular conduct of job fairs and posting job openings via online portals and bulletin boards at their offices near the Subic Bay Gym. “Jobseekers can click on the SBMA Career Portal, where we provide an official list of vacancies from various Freeport locators. We encourage applicants to check the Subic Gym bulletin board for scheduled examinations and interviews,” he said. For further information, Aliño advised job seekers to browse the SBMA official website mysubicbay.com.ph, and look for the “Jobs For You” section.

By Ruben A.Veloria BOTOLAN, Zambales, Philippines — The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) through the technical staff from the Philippine Fisheries and Coastal Resiliency (FishCore) Project, , on Wednesday, started to accept and process the  project proposals of Zambales fishermen for possible granting of livelihood projects worth up to P6 million. According to Paolo Quiteneg, president of the Zambales Provincial Fisherfolks Association (ZPFA), 12 fisheries associations from 13 municipalities of the province submitted their proposals during the meeting held at Botolan Municipal Hall. Quiteneg described the event as another milestone in the fisheries industry in the province, saying this development leads towards modernization for safer and greater income. Quiteneg said members of the fisherfolk associations are thanking Governor Hermogenes Ebdane Jr., and Provincial Consultant on Development and Infrastructure Engr. Mariano Domingo, for their untiring support to fishermen of Zambales. “The aggressive maritime activities of the Chinese Coast Guard against Filipino fishermen in the West Philippine Sea severely affected the livelihood of the Zambalenos, but Gov. Ebdane has continuously found ways to help the affected sector,”Quiteneg said. He said, earlier in January, Gov. Ebdane has turned over two brand new fiberglass payao boats (worth P5 million each); while the third boat was named: MB The Province of Zambales, which will be used in patrolling the vicinity of the fishing ground usually visited by poachers, and the multi-million peso payaos. Assisting the evaluation of the proposals submitted were FishCore Project and  Modern and Resilient Livelihood Investments (MARLIN) technical staff:  Angel Buenaventura, Jared Visperas and Sherlyn Ignacio. The grant is part of the P11.42 Billion (US$209 Million) initiative funded by the World Bank, and implemented by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR). FishCore Project aims to improve fisheries management, rehabilitate marine habitats, and increase income of the fisherfolks by combating illegal fishing, reducing post harvest losses, and strengthening climate resilient livelihoods. Among the ZPFZ members which submitted their proposals, Bagong Samahan ng mga Mangingisda sa Felmida-Diaz (Cabangan) president Daniel S. Daniel said that his association is very hopeful that their proposal will be approved to help them expand their market to other municipalities or province. Daniel had submitted a proposal for the acquisition of a reefer van and accessories. Also, Deepsea Fishing Association (Subic) chairwoman Charina Arquelles is very hopeful that their proposal will be approved. DFA submitted a P6-M project proposal to acquire also a reefer van, which they could use in transporting their catch to other markets without risk of spoiling.

10-hectare allocation within Hann Reserve marks a pivotal step toward building a complete, future-ready community in Pampanga   NEW CLARK CITY, Philippines — The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) and Hann Philippines, Inc. have formally signed an agreement allocating 10 hectares of land within Hann Reserve for the establishment of an international school in New Clark City. The signing marks a significant step in the city’s transformation into a full-service, globally competitive urban center in Central Luzon. The move addresses one of the most practical considerations for families, expatriates, and global professionals relocating to the area: access to world-class education. By anchoring an international school within the development, New Clark City strengthens its appeal as a place to genuinely live and grow. “This marks yet another significant milestone for New Clark City. We recognize that education is the bedrock of nation-building, and the impact this project will have on our economic development is truly beyond words,” BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang said. The international school will offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program and is designed to accommodate approximately 1,500 enrolled students. The project is scheduled for completion in 2030. BCDA Chairperson Atty. Larry B. Paredes echoed this sentiment, framing the agreement less as a real estate transaction and more as a statement of intent about the kind of community New Clark City is setting out to be. For Paredes, the value of the institution will be measured not in square meters but in human connection. “Years from now, people may not remember the documents we signed today. But they will experience the community built here in the classrooms, workplaces, and public spaces,” Atty. Paredes added. The agreement was signed by Hann Philippines Chairman and CEO Dae Sik Han and witnessed by BCDA Chairperson Atty. Paredes, along with senior officials from both organizations. A City Built for People New Clark City is designed from the ground up as a smart, green, disaster-resilient, and inclusive metropolis. A defining feature of the city’s master plan is its commitment to open space, with 60 percent of its total land area dedicated to parks, greenways, and sustainability-driven development—a rarity among urban projects of this scale anywhere in Southeast Asia. The addition of an international school deepens the city’s academic credentials at a time when its reputation as an education hub is already taking shape. The National Academy of Sports, the University of the Philippines, and the Philippine Science High School have all established or are establishing a presence in New Clark City, collectively positioning the area as an emerging center for learning, research, and innovation in the Philippines. Together, these institutions reinforce New Clark City’s core proposition that a modern city must be as invested in people as it is in roads, buildings, and broadband. The international school, once established, will serve the children of global professionals, local families, and the broader Clark corridor community making the city a more compelling destination for talent and investment alike.