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Region 3

BoC-Port of Subic gets ISO Certification for Quality Management System

Region 3

By Ruben A. Veloria   SUBIC BAY FREEPORT, Philippines – The Bureau of Customs– Port of Subic officially received recently its ISO 9001:2015 Certification from TÜV SÜD Philippines, affirming its commitment to deliver efficient, transparent, and high-quality customs services that complies with the international standards. Port of Subic District Collector Noel C. Estanislao proudly accepted the Certification from TÜV SÜD representative Mary Grace Zara during a simple awarding held at the Office of the District Collector, Bureau of Customs- Port of Subic, here. Witnessing the occasion were Deputy Collectors Isagani D. Galsim and Andrew Malcolm S. Calixihan. ISO 9001:2015 Certification is “a formal recognition that an organization’s Quality Management System (QMS) meets the requirements of the ISO 9001:2015 standard, which provides a framework for consistently providing products and services that meet customer and regulatory requirements leading to improved quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.” For the Port of Subic, the certification recognizes that the Port’s customs clearance processes for import and export operations have successfully passed the rigorous audit conducted by TÜV SÜD, ensuring full compliance with global quality management requirements. Estanislao extended his profound gratitude to all Port employees for their invaluable efforts and dedication in achieving this milestone. He emphasized that this recognition reflects the collective hard work and commitment of the Port of Subic team to continually uphold and enhance the ISO standards in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to align customs processes with internationally recognized benchmarks and best practices. This milestone also underscores the Port’s alignment with the BOC’s 5-Point Priority Program, particularly in promoting good governance and integrity, facilitating trade, and ensuring world-class customs service delivery.    

Zambales holds provincial training-workshop to formulate disaster plan

Region 3

By Ruben A. Veloria   SUBIC BAY FREEPORT, Philippines – After a series of earthquakes that hit the country just recently, the Provincial Government of Zambales launched on Monday the three-day provincial-wide training-workshop on disaster planning formulation involving key offices and line-agencies at the Travelers Hotel here. The training-workshop dubbed “Provincial Training-Workshop on Peace and Order and Public Safety Plan Formulation” aims to come-up with an effective and well-coordinated communication and responses among local government units, national government offices and other government line agencies. More than 200 keys personnels from provincial and municipal government units and line-agencies attended the activity, including, local chief executives, planning and development officers, chiefs of police, chief of hospitals and municipal health officers, and provincial and municipal engineering officers, among others. Zambales Governor Hermogenes Ebdane Jr., who is the concurrent chairman of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), said the activity will establish a well-organized and synchronized action plan in the event of calamities or disaster, or the most feared The Big One. Scientists refer “The Big One” as to the occurrence of earthquake with a magnitude of 7.2 or stronger which is expected to hit Metro Manila with its center along the West Valley Fault, which historically has its major movements occurring every 400 to 600 years. Scientists believe that since its last major activity happened around 1658, the probability of experiencing a major jolt along the said fault is increasing each passing year. Gov. Ebdane said, the Provincial Government, through the help and diligence of the participants, would come up a masterplan of actions that could be used when a disaster strike anywhere in the province. “With a well-coordinated and quick response, we could minimize the effect of disaster to human lives,” the official said.

BoC-Port of Subic exceeds September target with P3.87-B collection

Region 3

By Ruben A.Veloria   SUBIC BAY FREEPORT, Philippined — The Bureau of Customs – Port of Subic has again surpassed its September 2025 revenue target after recording a total collection of ₱3,87 Billion, exceeding its assigned target of ₱3,483 Billion, or an increase of 11%. Port of Subic District Collector Noel C. Estanislao said that based on Port’s records for the month pf September 2025, the Bureau has collected a total of P3,870,665,783.55 on taxes, duties and other forms of revenue, as against the P3,483,277,798.04 target for the month. Estanislao commended the dedication and collective efforts of all personnel of the Port of Subic, emphasizing that the consistent performance reflects the Port’s unwavering commitment to efficiency, integrity, and transparency in revenue collection. “This is a result of the hard work and vigilance of every personnel of the Port, who continue to perform beyond expectations despite operational challenges.” The District Collector also noted that due to the dedication and superior performance of the personnel, the Bureau has officially received its ISO 9001:2015 Certification from TÜV SÜD Philippines, affirming its steadfast commitment to delivering efficient, transparent, and high-quality customs services that meet both customer expectations and international standards. ISO 9001:2015 certification recognizes the Port’s compliance with quality management on customs clearance processes for import and export operations that help organizations to consistently provide quality products and services to meet customer and regulatory satisfaction. The District Collector also expressed his appreciation to stakeholders and partner agencies, including the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) under the leadership of Chairman and Administrator Engr. Eduardo Jose L. Aliño, for their continued support and collaboration that contribute significantly to trade facilitation and smooth port operations. The Port’s continuous success aligns with the Bureau’s 5-Point Priority Program and Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno mandates, particularly in ensuring enhanced revenue collection, good governance, and trade facilitation, while upholding the Bureau’s thrust toward a more modernized and transparent customs administration. With this accomplishment, the Port of Subic reaffirms its commitment to maintaining its high standard of service and sustaining its performance in the remaining months of the year in support of the Bureau’s overall collection goals for 2025.          

Australian Ambassador strengthens ties with PH as a reliable ally in economics

Region 3

Subic Bay Freeport, Philippines  – Australian Ambassador Marc Innes-Brown recently visited this premier freeport aiming to strengthen its ties with the Philippines as Australia enhances trade and investment with the Southeast Asian countries. Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño and other agency officials welcomed Brown during his visit here, wherein relevant information on the logistical advantages of the Freeport to other countries was also discussed. During the visit on October 3, 2025, Brown, who came with First Secretary for Economic Paul McEachern, said that two years ago, the Australian government developed a Southeast Asia economic strategy to boost trade and investment in the region. Together with SBMA officials, the Ambassador visited several areas during an ocular inspection of the freeport, while eyeing potential investment opportunities for Australian companies looking to expand their businesses in other countries. Brown shared that Australia regards the Philippines as a reliable ally in terms of economics and security, as evidenced by the robust and dynamic strategic partnership between the two countries. He added that the Southeast Asia economic strategy includes promoting Australian investments into the region, with deal teams established in Southeast Asian capitals to identify investable projects. He also said that their government is promoting outward investments for Australian businesses to the region, while getting more investments into Australia at the same time, by exporting more goods and services. Meanwhile, SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator for Business and Investment Renato Lee III cited, “Subic Bay Freeport has 23 Australian companies with a total of USD$11.6-million in total investments, and has an employment strength of 540 workers.” He added that the top three Australian companies in Subic Bay Freeport include STG Global Corp., a steel fabrication company that invested USD$3.5 million; Platinum Skies Aviation, Inc., an air transport company that invested USD$1.4 million; and Dunbrae Subic, Inc. food processing equipment and manufacturing company that invested USD$860,000. Lee also proposed a Sister Port Agreement with the Australian government citing that the Port of Subic can provide the necessary support to Australia’s major ports such as the Ports of Melbourne, Newcastle, and Botany. “This will strengthen maritime linkages between the Philippines and Australia since Subic Bay is a strategic deep-water port of Southeast Asia. The SBMA can learn from these Australian Ports since they are key innovators in the Asia-Pacific trade and sustainability,” he added. (30)        

AboitizPower donates ₱1-Million Learning Hub to boosts digital literacy in Bataan

Region 3

By Ruben A. Veloria   MARIVELES, Bataan,Philippines – In a significant boost to educational infrastructure in here, the AboitizPower Transmission Business Group, on Friday (Oct. 3) has officially turned over a state-of-the-art Learning Hub Facility to Alion Elementary School as part of its annual support for the Brigada Eskwela initiative. The project, dubbed “Digita Eskwela,” was made by AboitizPower TBG through its private limited partnerships GNPower Mariveles Energy Center (GMEC) and GNPower Dinginin (GNPD), in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) aimed at improving school facilities and readiness for the upcoming academic year. With a project cost of ₱1M, the initiative provided Alion Elementary School with a technology-rich learning environment designed to enhance digital literacy and expand educational opportunities for the youth of Mariveles. The comprehensive project involved the complete refurbishment of a school facility, which included repainting of the interior and exterior, installation of new sliding windows and floor tiles, complete electrical rewiring, improvement of the comfort room, installation of two new air conditioning units. To complete the hub, the project also included the provision of ten complete desktop computer sets, ensuring students have immediate access to modern educational tools. This initiative is a core component of the AboitizPower TBG’s commitment to advancing education and community development. By investing in projects like Digita Eskwela, the company reinforces its goal of fostering safe, inclusive, and well-equipped schools where Filipino learners can thrive. The turnover of the new Learning Hub Facility was met with gratitude by the faculty and students of Alion Elementary School, who are now better prepared to integrate technology into their daily lessons and bridge the digital gap. The project stands as a testament to the positive impact of public-private partnerships in uplifting the quality of education in the Philippines.   PHOTO:        

BCDA, Philippine Volcanoes strengthen youth development with rugby program in New Clark City

Region 3

New Clark City, Tarlac, Philippines — The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) recently teamed up with the Philippine Rugby Football Union (PRFU) and the national rugby team, the Philippine Volcanoes, to inspire young members of the communities in Tarlac by hosting a rugby clinic in New Clark City, Capas, Tarlac. Themed “Empowering Youths, Celebrating Heritage,” the activity gathered around 30 youths from Sitio Tilik and Sitio Telapilun, Brgy. San Roque in Bamban, and Brgy. Sta. Lucia in Capas in a rugby clinic held at the New Clark City Athletics Stadium.  Teaching them are members of the Philippine Volcanoes who excitedly introduced rugby as a sport through group activities that inspired the young to embrace an active lifestyle and appreciate the values of teamwork, discipline, and resilience. The initiative marked the second time BCDA has partnered with the rugby national team, reinforcing its commitment to grassroots sports and youth development. In welcoming partners and guests, BCDA Vice President for Public Affairs Leilani Barlongay-Macasaet highlighted the Authority’s commitment to its stakeholders and to building a strong foundation for the future of sports in the Philippines at New Clark City–home to the National Academy of Sports. “By hosting this event, we give greater meaning to what New Clark City is to us.  This metropolis fuels an enabling experience, a nurturing place for learning, dreaming and realizing these dreams. A sustainable development that is meant to benefit all,” Macasaet said. PRFU President Ada Milby said the rugby clinic builds on last year’s successful engagement with New Clark City communities, where PRFU also conducted grassroots training. ”We just want to bring rugby to more communities. We want to just continue growing the sport, that way, whether you want to play rugby or you want to watch rugby, that there’s a place for you to go,” Ms. Milby said. As part of the engagement, BCDA also introduced the players to its community development initiatives, particularly the Ayta Ethno Botanical Center (AEBC) in New Clark City.   Delivering a lecture on community empowerment and culture integration is AEBC Project Manager and University of the Philippines Professor Florencia Charito Imperial-Sebastian, PhD.  Through the AEBC, BCDA, with the Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU), and the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 3, continues to empower indigenous communities with sustainable farming practices and long-term livelihood prospects. The collaboration between PRFU and BCDA underscores their shared vision to foster sports development and community empowerment, while celebrating the rich heritage of the indigenous peoples of Tarlac. The rugby clinic was held on September 13, 2025, while the Volcanoes were in training at New Clark City in preparation for the Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Series, a sporting event where the top eight rugby clubs in Asia compete. Currently the Women’s Volcanoes ranked 11th in Asia following its win against Indonesia at the Hangzhou Normal University in China.  Meanwhile, the Men’s Volcanoes ranked 12 after bowing to Thailand in their final match.  The next leg of the series in Sri Lanka on October 18–19, 2025.  Our national team is also gearing up for the Southeast Asian Games this December in Thailand, where the Volcanoes will defend their gold and silver medals in the men’s and women’s categories, respectively.                  

BCDA inks three deals with Japanese partners

Region 3

New Clark City, Philippines — The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has secured three deals with Japanese government and private sector partners to advance the development of BCDA-managed properties, particularly in the fields of waste management, renewable energy, telecommunications, and sustainable development. During an official mission to Tokyo, Japan, BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Japanese industrial and engineering firm Kanadevia Corporation (KVC) for the conduct of preliminary feasibility studies on the development of a waste-to-energy (WTE) facility in New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac. This project aligns with the BCDA’s goal of transforming New Clark City into a green and resilient metropolis by introducing sustainable solutions and fostering a circular economy. BCDA also signed another MOU with Japanese telecommunications firms IPS Inc. and InfiniVAN Inc. to explore potential collaborative projects that will maximize the utilization of BCDA’s information and communications technology (ICT) assets in the Poro Point Freeport Zone in La Union and other BCDA-administered zones. This will contribute to the implementation of the Luzon Bypass Infrastructure Program by ensuring that high-speed internet connectivity reaches local communities and benefits Filipinos. Lastly, the BCDA formalized its partnership with the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) for the development and promotion of BCDA projects that champion energy transition and support environmental and social sustainability.  Under this MOU, JBIC will help reinforce the BCDA’s relations with the Japanese business community and promote Japanese companies’ participation in BCDA’s green and sustainable initiatives. JBIC has also expressed its willingness to consider strategic funding options to support such projects. “With our Japanese partners, we are advancing projects that tackle waste management through renewable energy, strengthen digital connectivity for communities, and promote sustainable development in our economic zones. More than infrastructure, these collaborations will deliver direct benefits to Filipinos by creating jobs, attracting investments, and improving quality of life. BCDA is proud to stand with Japan in shaping a greener, smarter, and more resilient Philippines,” said Engr. Bingcang. The signing of the three MOUs was held on 30 September, Tuesday, at the Philippine Embassy in Tokyo as part of the BCDA’s four-day official mission to Tokyo, which will run until 03 October, Friday.  These agreements signify the strong economic relations between the Japanese and Philippine governments, as well as the confidence of Japanese organizations in BCDA’s capacity to drive sustainable development, foster innovation, and implement transformative projects across its economic zones. “These agreements are more than just documents; they represent a shared commitment to collaboration, innovation, and sustainable growth. We are confident that these MOUs will pave the way for more meaningful business opportunities, foster stronger partnerships, and deliver tangible benefits not only to the companies involved but also to the broader Philippine-Japan economic relationship,” Philippine Ambassador to Japan Mylene De Joya Garcia-Albano said. Aside from the signing of these MOUs, the delegation will also meet with the Japan Overseas Infrastructure Investment Corporation for Transport and Urban Development to align directions and strategies for the development of New Clark City. The BCDA team will also conduct a site visit to the Shinagawa Waste-to-Energy Plant to benchmark WTE operations and observe the management and technical aspects of the facilities.  

Bulacan ranks among top 5 Most Business-Friendly LGU

Region 3

CITY OF MALOLOS, Philippines – The province of Bulacan has once again earned national recognition for its excellence in good governance and economic development after securing a spot in the Top 5 Local Government Units under the Province Level for this year’s Most Business-Friendly Local Government Unit Awards given by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry recently. This prestigious recognition emphasizes the Provincial Government of Bulacan’s unwavering commitment to promote a business-enabling environment through innovative programs, sustained support for the province’s Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and fostering an environment for sustainable economic growth. Bulacan’s consistent performance in this category solidifies the province’s reputation as a leading economic hub in Central Luzon, largely due to its government’s proactive approach. Governor Daniel R. Fernando expressed his gratitude for the recognition and said that the province of Bulacan is always open for new opportunities to invest and create partnerships. “Ang parangal na ito ay isang testamento ng kasipagan at dedikasyon ng ating lalawigan at lahat ng nakakatuwang natin sa pagnenegosyo sa Bulacan. Patuloy po nating ipatutupad ang mga patakarang makapagpapadali ng pagnenegosyo sa ating lalawigan upang dumami pa ang trabaho at mga oportunidad para sa ating mga mamamayan,” the governor said. He also added that the PGB is committed to providing seamless support for both local and foreign investors. The other four provinces who were recognized alongside Bulacan were Bataan, Cavite, Camarines Sur and Iloilo. PCCI’s annual search for the Most Business-Friendly LGUs aims to recognize local government units that have demonstrated exceptional efforts in instituting good governance reforms, improving business services, and fostering a competitive local economy.(Bulacan PIO)

SBMA reveals big-ticket projects to AMCHAM North Luzon

Region 3

By Ruben A. Veloria   SUBIC BAY FREEPORT, Philippines – The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) revealed three big-ticket infrastructure projects before the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines, Inc. (AMCHAM)-North Luzon during the latter’s visit here,recently. During the Subic Freeport leg of its visit to economic districts in the country, SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator (SDA) for Business and Investment Renato Lee III welcomed AMCHAM President Denise H. R. Molintas at the SBMA corporate boardroom. Department of Transportation (DOTR) Planning Service Director Felicisimo C. Pangilinan Jr. also shared a few insights on the various projects that would boost businesses in Luzon. According to Lee, SBMA is planning to create a new cruise ship berth at the Redondo Peninsula where cruise ships can unload their passengers at the said facility. He added that the ₱1.2-billion facility will have a quay length of 380 meters for berth 1, and 350 meters for berth 2. Lee cited that the reclamation for the cruise passenger terminal and cruise leisure and commercial area would cost ₱8.3 billion. The agency is also intending to redevelop Boton Wharf into a 12.8-hectare terminal with a berthing length of 920 meters. The project will have five warehouses with a floor area of 5,000 square meters each. To complement these projects are the construction of administration offices, staging areas, access roads, rehabilitation of existing road networks, and the installation of shore power. Meanwhile, Lee disclosed that while still in its preparatory stage, a multi-purpose terminal will also be constructed at the Redondo Peninsula which will provide access and support to the area, with a total area of 30 hectares, a quay length of 600 meters, and a depth of 12 meters. It will involve the construction of warehouses, an administration building, truck parking, and weighing scale, offices, and facilities for workers.        

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