SUBIC BAY FREEPORT, Philippines  – The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has further solidified its commitment to excellence and workplace safety by earning the prestigious ISO 45001:2018 certification from DQS Philippines. The official awarding ceremony took place on Monday morning, August 3, 2026, at the SBMA corporate boardroom, Building 662. Presenting the certification was DQS Philippines Managing Director Romeo Zamora. SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño expressed pride and resolve in accepting the certification. “I stand proud of all of you for this achievement. Securing another ISO certificate is more than an institutional milestone—it is a sincere public service commitment. This recognition is for the people; undertake it with dedication and heart,” Aliño said. He emphasized the importance of not only obtaining certifications but also upholding the standards conscientiously. “The true value lies in implementing these standards earnestly and consistently—not only for the agency but for our country, our locators, workers, and the community we serve.” The ISO 45001:2018 certification establishes a robust Occupational Health and Safety Management System (OHSMS) that enables organizations to identify and mitigate workplace risks, prevent injuries, and enhance overall safety. SBMA has previously received ISO 9001:2018 certification for Quality Management Systems and ISO 14001:2018 for Environmental Management Systems from DQS Philippines, underscoring its comprehensive compliance with international standards. Romeo Zamora acknowledged the enduring partnership between the SBMA and DQS Philippines, highlighting their joint commitment to continuous improvement. “It is an honor to support the SBMA in achieving certification across QMS, EMS, and OHSMS. We look forward to further fostering this partnership to support effective management system implementation,” Zamora said. Operating as the local representative of the German-based DQS Group, DQS Philippines brings an extensive global network spanning 60 countries to its certification services. SBMA Total Quality Management Office (TQMO) Lead Auditor Lolita Bondoc announced that the SBMA is the first Freeport authority in the Philippines to secure three key ISO certifications. The agency is also preparing to integrate these management systems into a unified framework by 2028. In recognition of the pivotal role of internal auditors, the agency honored personnel responsible for maintaining rigorous internal audit programs that ensure compliance and readiness for third-party evaluations. Chairman Aliño concluded, “For government employees, adhering to these standards is essential. I salute the dedicated men and women whose efforts made this achievement possible.” (30)      

By Ruben A. Veloria   SUBIC, Zambales, Philippines — South Korean shipbuilder HD Hyundai Heavy Industries Philippines (HHIP) launched on Tuesday its first Philippine-made vessel M/V Orion Jade (Hull No. J001), merely 11 months after its steel cutting ceremony held at its Agila Southern Yard in Subic Bay. Finance Sec. Fredrick Go and Korean Ambassador to the Philippines Lee Sang-Hwa, together with Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman Engr. Eduardo Jose Alino, HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering Ind. CEO Kim Sung-joon, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries Philippines president Oh Sekwang, and local government officials, graced the ceremony. The launching of the Orion Jade, according to Sec. Go, is clear manifestation of the success of the initiatives of the (Pres.) Marcos Jr. administration to attract investment to the country and to be able to build world-class ships. Go added that Korean shipbuilding investment represents 4,000 jobs and thousands of created livelihood, which is expected to double in the following years as HHIP target production for 2028 is at least ten ships a year. As he closes his message, Sec. Go expressed his gratitude to Amb. Lee, and HHIP officials, saying, “Thank you for boosting our shipbuilding capability and providing employment to Filipino workers.” Amb. Lee described the project as “in a broader content, Subic Shipyard serves as the strategic asset to the Luzon economic corridor linking vital economic links like Clark, Subic, Manila and Batangas.” He also commended the Filipino workers for their highly regarded skills in shipbuilding which serve as the primary foundation of the shipyards’ accomplishments. In 2019, after the closure of Hanjin Heavy Industries, HD HHIP took over the shipyard facility with the United States equity firm Cerberus Global Investment LLC. In September 2, 2025, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. led the pressing of the ceremonial button to start the first cutting of steel plate marking the commencement of construction of a 115,000-ton petrochemical carrier. The ceremony held at the Agila Southern Yard, Subic Freeport Zone in Subic, Zambales— was a landmark event that marks the revival of the country’s shipbuilding enterprise. In July 2025, iMARINE published that according to South Korean media “HHIP has received orders for seven tankers, including four 115,000-dwt LR2 tankers and three product tankers, and is expected to deliver four in 2027 and three in 2028. HHIP’s annual production capacity is expected to be four LR2 tankers. Therefore, the company is committed to achieving full recovery by 2026. Korea Investment & Securities predicts that HHIP is expected to achieve operating income of 200 billion won, 418 billion won and 421 billion won in 2026, 2027 and 2028. The data assumes that the construction of LR2 tankers will start in 2026 and full production will start in 2027.”    

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT, Philippines — The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) released a total of ₱218,115,671.26 in revenue shares to eight local government units (LGUs) contiguous to this premier freeport zone. SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño said that this amount released on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, represents the revenue shares for the first semester of 2026, which is 10.24 percent higher than that of last year’s comparative period. The recipient LGUs are Olongapo City, the municipalities of Subic, San Marcelino, Castillejos, and San Antonio in Zambales, and the towns of Dinalupihan, Hermosa, and Morong in Bataan. Taking into account the population and land area, Olongapo was allocated the largest amount of ₱50,420,165.72, received by Olongapo City Mayor Atty. Rolen Paulino, Jr. This was followed by Subic, Zambales, which received ₱32,871,521.46, accepted on behalf of Mayor Jonathan John Khonghun. The remaining LGUs received their allocations as follows: Dinalupihan, Bataan, with ₱27,438,313.68, accepted on behalf of Mayor German Santos, Jr.; San Marcelino, Zambales, with ₱26,272,445.97, received by Mayor Elvis Soria; Hermosa, Bataan, with ₱23,422,520.27, accepted on behalf of Mayor Atty. Anne Adorable-Inton; Castillejos, Zambales, with ₱19,817,470.23, received on behalf of Mayor Jeffrey Khonghun; Morong, Bataan, with ₱19,340,287.10, received on behalf of Mayor Leila Linao-Muñoz; and San Antonio, Zambales, with ₱18,532,946.83, received by Mayor Dr. Arvin Antipolo.The LGU shares are sourced from five percent corporate taxes paid by business locators in the Subic Bay Freeport. They are distributed among LGUs based on population (50%), land area (25%), and equal sharing (25%). OIC-Deputy Administrator for Finance Editha Marzal, along with the finance team, led the distribution of the LGU shares. Marzal noted that the net shares distributed to the LGUs include not only the current collection period’s allocations but also the 10 percent retention withheld during the first semester of the 2024 distribution. According to Republic Act No. 9400, which amends RA 7227 or the Bases Conversion and Development Act of 1992, the SBMA is mandated to allocate two percent out of the five percent of gross income earned to LGU shares.         [1]

By Rose Frejane A. Cruz   SUBIC BAY FREEPORT ZONE — Meet the newest attraction in the Zoobic Safari family, a one-month-old African Lion Cub, born to a lioness couple inside the forest adventure park. According to Amorsolo Apostol, head of the Zoo Keeping Department, the said African Lion Cub, named Tina, was born on June 8 to African Lion couple Koko (father) and Mayumi (mother), both beloved residents of Zoobic Safari. “ Her birth marks another important milestone in the park’s ongoing commitment to wildlife conservation, responsible animal care, and public education,” Apostol said. He said that since her birth, Tina has been under the close supervision of Zoobic Safari’s experienced animal care team. “ She is growing stronger every day, showing healthy development and the playful curiosity that makes lion cubs beautiful.” It was further stated that Tina’s arrival provides visitors with a unique opportunity to appreciate one of Africa’s most iconic species while learning about the importance of protecting wildlife and preserving natural habitats for future generations. According to Robert Laurel Yupangco, President and CEO of Zoobic Safari, “Every new life reminds us of our responsibility to protect animals and our planet. Tina’s birth is a celebration of hope and conservation, inspiring us all to care for the environment and the magnificent animals that surround us.” He said that Zoobic Safari remains committed to providing world-class animal welfare while raising awareness about animal conservation through immersive educational experiences. Tina’s birth reflects the dedication of the park’s veterinarians, zookeepers, and conservation team to ensuring the highest standards of care for its inhabitants. “I invite visitors to follow Zoobic Safari’s official social media channels for updates on Tina’s growth and future opportunities to see the lion cub as she reaches appropriate milestones,” Yupangco added. About Zoobic Safari Zoobic Safari is the Philippines’ premier safari adventure park, offering visitors unforgettable wildlife encounters while promoting conservation, environmental education, and responsible ecotourism. Home to a diverse collection of exotic and native species, the park continues to inspire appreciation for nature through engaging and educational experiences for guests of all ages.      

Subic Bay Freeport, Philippines – A United States delegation is eyeing more potential business opportunities here as part of a profile business mission in line with the initiatives of the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC). According to SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño, the delegates from the U.S. Northeast, Midwest, and West Coast regions visited on July 8, 2026 to participate in the said business mission that will strengthen partnerships, expand business opportunities, and foster a prosperous future for both U.S. and Philippine enterprises. With the theme “Driving the Future of U.S.–Philippine Trade Through Innovation,” Aliño said that the mission reflects the SBMA’s commitment to enhancing international cooperation and economic growth within the Subic special economic zone. The delegation, composed of 25 executives and investors, conducted comprehensive discussions, site visits, and networking activities with SBMA officials and Subic company officials, all designed to showcase the potential and advantages of investing in the SBFZ. Subic Bay Freeport Chamber of Commerce (SBFCC) President Benjamin Antonio III, together with SBFCC Executive Director Donna May Tamayo also joined to take part in a rare opportunity to build strong, lasting business relationships that will drive economy not only in the Subic special economic zone but ultimately the country as a whole. The Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) in New York, the facilitator of the said U.S. Business Mission to the Philippines, said that the main goal of the trip is to create stronger economic ties and encourage more US companies to invest in the country’s growing economy. Aside from Subic Bay Freeport, the delegation also visited areas in Manila, Clark, and Corregidor Island to conduct business meetings, informational briefings, and tours of these major economic areas that are part of the LEC. “The trip comes at a time when the Philippines is actively working to welcome international businesses and establish itself as a key partner for US companies looking to grow in Asia,” the PTIC said. Officials from Worldwide Shipping & Logistics (WSL), who were also part of the delegation, said that these engagements strengthened economic cooperation and opened new opportunities for trade and investment between the United States and the Philippines. WSL Co-Founder Mrs. Richelyn Toth and General Manager Ms. Sherilyn Mecinas were among the 25 delegates who participated in high-level meetings, investment discussions, site visits, and strategic networking opportunities with leaders from government, industry, and the private sector. The said business mission follows the Philippines’ inclusion in the Washington-backed Pax Silica bloc — an initiative aimed at securing global artificial intelligence (AI) supply chains. As part of Pax Silica, the Philippines and the US announced in April, plans to develop a 1,618-hectare AI-native hub in New Clark City in Tarlac, which is expected to attract investment in AI and chip manufacturing.        

    CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, Pampanga, Philippines — The Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) was recognized by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for remitting ₱585.71 million in dividends to the National Treasury, underscoring the state-run firm’s commitment to sound fiscal management and its contribution to funding the government’s priority programs for the Filipino people. The recognition was conferred during the 2026 GOCCs’ Day celebration held on 08 July 2026 at Malacañang Palace, where President Marcos honored government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs) that demonstrated exemplary performance and fulfilled their dividend obligations to the national government. CIAC President and Chief Executive Officer Jojit Alcazar received the Certificate of Recognition from President Marcos, together with Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, Finance Secretary Frederick Go, and Governance Commission for GOCCs (GCG) Chairperson Atty. Marius Corpus. CIAC was among the GOCCs recognized during the ceremony, alongside its parent agency, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), and fellow BCDA subsidiaries Clark Development Corporation (CDC), John Hay Management Corporation (JHMC), and Poro Point Management Corporation (PPMC). The dividend remittance of ₱585,709,498.80 represents 60 percent of CIAC’s adjusted net income for fiscal year 2025 and is 88 percent higher than the ₱310.99 million remitted in 2024. The increase reflects the corporation’s sustained financial growth, operational efficiency, and prudent fiscal management. Alcazar said the recognition affirms CIAC’s continuing efforts to strengthen its financial performance while supporting the national government’s development agenda. “This recognition reflects CIAC’s commitment to good governance, financial discipline, and responsible stewardship of public resources. Beyond fulfilling our statutory obligation, our dividend remittance represents our contribution to the government’s efforts to improve the lives of Filipinos through better public services and infrastructure,” Alcazar said. CIAC’s remittance exceeds the minimum requirement under Republic Act No. 7656, or the Dividend Law, which mandates GOCCs to remit at least 50 percent of their adjusted net earnings to the National Government. Based on CIAC’s adjusted net income of approximately ₱976 million in 2025, the corporation was required to remit around ₱488 million. Alcazar noted that CIAC likewise complied with the Department of Finance’s directive encouraging GOCCs to increase their dividend remittances, resulting in the higher payout to the National Treasury. He attributed the corporation’s strong financial performance to improved operational efficiency, sound fiscal management, a business-friendly environment for investors and locators, and sustained efforts to attract strategic partnerships that support the continued development of the Clark Aviation Capital. CIAC also expects its dividend contributions to continue growing as it advances its seven flagship projects under the Clark Aviation Capital, the corporation’s aviation-oriented development program that integrates logistics, commerce, innovation, and sustainable urban development to generate long-term investments, employment opportunities, and economic growth. During the GOCCs’ Day celebration, President Marcos underscored the crucial role of GOCCs in strengthening the country’s fiscal position and enabling the government to deliver essential public services. “Every peso remitted strengthens the government’s capacity to deliver better services without imposing additional tax burden on ordinary Filipinos,” the President said. He added that the dividends remitted by GOCCs will help fund classrooms for students, housing for Filipino families, and farm-to-market roads that improve the livelihoods of farmers and fisherfolk, demonstrating how responsible corporate governance directly benefits communities across the country. CIAC is the aviation and land development arm of the BCDA and manages the 2,367-hectare Clark Civil Aviation Complex, where the Clark Aviation Capital is being developed as the country’s premier aviation-centric investment and economic hub.      

NEW CLARK CITY, Philippines — The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has partnered with South Korea’s state-owned energy giant, Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO), to develop the smart energy systems that will power the next phase of New Clark City’s growth, strengthening the metropolis’ position as an investment-ready destination for high-value industries. The partnership complements BCDA’s efforts to position New Clark City as a key investment destination under the Luzon Economic Corridor by ensuring the reliable and sustainable energy infrastructure required by next-generation industries. The memorandum of understanding (MOU), signed on 8 July 2026, establishes a framework for BCDA and KEPCO to jointly assess, design, and develop advanced energy and infrastructure systems within New Clark City, drawing on KEPCO’s decades of experience in power generation, transmission, and smart grid deployment across South Korea and abroad. Through the partnership, BCDA aims to embed intelligent energy systems into New Clark City’s development from the outset, rather than retrofit these capabilities as demand grows. “As New Clark City continues to attract investments and jobs, our infrastructure must keep pace with the needs of future industries. Through this partnership with KEPCO, we are laying the foundations for an energy system that is smart, resilient, and sustainable from day one. This gives investors greater confidence that New Clark City can support the industries of tomorrow,” BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang said. The partnership centers on three areas of cooperation. First, BCDA and KEPCO will explore smart energy management systems that combine information and communication technology (ICT) with smart grid infrastructure to optimize energy efficiency across New Clark City. Building on this, BCDA and KEPCO will jointly plan, develop, construct, and operate smart power grid systems designed to ensure a stable, reliable, and high-quality electricity supply throughout the smart city. The two organizations will also study renewable energy and microgrid solutions, including solar photovoltaic systems, fuel cells, energy storage systems, and other distributed energy technologies that can strengthen energy security while supporting New Clark City’s sustainability goals. To guide future investments, BCDA and KEPCO will jointly undertake technical and commercial feasibility studies and exchange relevant data to assess the viability of these projects before entering into more detailed cooperation agreements. “KEPCO has spent decades building smart grid and renewable energy systems that power millions of homes and industries in Korea. Now, we are pleased to bring that experience to New Clark City and to support the Philippines’ vision for a smart, sustainable urban future. We look forward to working closely with BCDA in the studies ahead,” Chan Hyuk Chun, Corporate Senior Vice President of KEPCO said. The partnership adds another strategic component to BCDA’s long-term vision of transforming New Clark City into the country’s premier smart and sustainable metropolis. By strengthening its energy infrastructure, New Clark City is better positioned to attract investments in advanced manufacturing, digital services, artificial intelligence, and other high-value industries that require reliable, resilient, and low-carbon power systems. This supports the Marcos administration’s push to accelerate infrastructure development, strengthen energy security, and position the Philippines as a competitive destination for future-ready industries. Also present during the signing were KEPCO Philippines President and CEO Yong Su Jeon and BCDA Officer-in-Charge Senior Vice President Mark P. Torres.

By Ruben A. Veloria   MASINLOC, Zambales, Philippines – Secretary of National Defense Gilberto Teodoro Jr., on Friday urged the stakeholders, local officials and fishermen to help in protecting fishing grounds against intruders for future generations. The message was conveyed during his visit in Masinloc to grace the celebration of the 10th Year Anniversary of the 2016 Hague Arbitral Award in the West Philippine Sea. Sec. Teodoro was welcomed by local officials headed by Zambales Gov. Hermogenes Ebdane Jr., and Zambales 2nd Dist. Rep. Doris Maniquiz, and senior officers of the Armed forces of the Philippines (AFP), and fishermen in the province. Speaking on the theme “Bayanihan sa Karagatan: Liwanag ng Kalayaan, Tanglaw ng Karagatan”, Teodoro noted that the fishing grounds are getting smaller in global scale. “That is why we should preserve our own (fishing grounds) and we should not allow ourselves to be controlled by foreign intruders with other motives. Otherwise, those wouldn’t be enough for our future generations,” Teodoro said in Tagalog. Teodoro, noted however, that the fishing grounds could not be flourished until all Filipinos, acting as one, accept the efforts of the government to maintain its ground over all contested areas in the West Philippine Sea, as stated in the 2016 Arbitral Ruling by the UNCLOS. Meanwhile, Gov. Ebdane, in his message, said that the West Philippine Sea and its resources belong to Filipino people, and the Filipinos should defend this area against foreign intruders and aggressors. Noting that the province of Zambales is fully supporting the position and actions in the West Philippine Sea in protecting the nation’s sovereignty and its fishermen harvesting the bountiful resources in the area. The governor mentioned the occasion was not merely a celebration for the Hague decision, but more importantly to recognize the courage and heroism Filipino fishermen, and the government’s continuing pursuit for peace in the West Philippine Sea. Before the program ended, Gov. Ebdane and Cong. Maniquiz assisted Sec. Teodoro in distributing batteries, fishing gears, and other fishing materials, and food packs to 3,500 fishermen in the province, followed by a free concert during the night.