Subic Bay Freeport, Philippines – The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) is undertaking more financial relief measures for its stakeholders as discussed in a public consultation at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC) here on May 11, 2026. SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator for Support Services Atty. Ramon O. Agregado said that these temporary measures, stipulated in Board Resolution No. 26-04-1768, and approved on April 21, extend financial relief to affected Subic Bay Freeport Zone (SBFZ) stakeholders. This action responds to Executive Order No. 110 by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., which declared the entire country under a State of National Energy Emergency. These measures include a 50% reduction in the Road Users’ Fee (RUF); the suspension of the Environment and Tourism Administrative Fee (ETAF); free renewal of SBMA IDs in electronic ID (e-ID) format for SBF workers; a reduction of fees for renewing SBMA IDs in physical card format; and the implementation of the Economic Relief Assistance Program (ERA 4) for locators here. Agregado said that the RUF is imposed only on Class 3 vehicles such as trucks, heavy equipment, and other vehicles except mass transit buses with a 45-passenger seating capacity, that utilize the road on a daily, monthly, or annual basis to partially recover the cost of repairing and maintaining the SBF road network. “Please note that the RUF has not been adjusted since 1997 despite inflation and the fact that the prices of services and materials have increased numerous times throughout the years. Notwithstanding the above, the SBMA Board of Directors likewise approved in the same Resolution to defer the implementation of the programmed increase or adjustment of the RUF,” he added. Meanwhile, ETAF, which covers all guests with short-term stays in SBFZ Accommodation Establishments, is suspended. These establishments include hotels, inns, daily rental housing facilities, condotels, and all other such establishments. Other tourism establishments include restaurants, wellness centers, massage and health spas, golf courses, beach resorts, and theme parks, and all other tourism-related establishments, except duty-free shops and retail stores. “The SBMA Board of Directors, through Resolution No. 26-04-1789, approved the temporary suspension of ETAF payments effective 24 April 2026. The same Resolution provides that the temporary suspension of ETAF payments shall remain in effect until otherwise lifted or modified by the SBMA Board of Directors,” Agregado said. He added that to provide tangible financial relief specifically targeted to and in support of SBF workers, SBMA is launching the SBMA e-ID for renewals and temporarily waiving renewal fees for workers who opt for the e-ID instead of a physical card. The Board also approved, through Resolution No. 26-04-1788, the temporary adjustment or reduction of the fee for the renewal of the SBMA ID of SBF workers who opted for a physical card instead of the e-ID format, from ₱200.00 to ₱130.00. This adjustment shall be effective upon receipt of a positive review by the Office of the Government Corporate Counsel. The Board has also approved the ERA4 through Resolution No. 26-04-1784, allowing SBF locators a 50% deferral of payment for monthly lease rental/sublease share billing for a maximum period of six months, starting in May 2026. “Locators will be allowed to pay half of their monthly billing without penalty for late payment for billings issued by the Accounting Department from May to October 2026, provided they have no past-due accounts as of April 30, 2026,” the SBMA official said. The 2026 Middle East war has triggered the largest global oil supply disruption in history, with over barrels per day lost in March due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Fuel prices have skyrocketed—jet fuel doubled in price by April—causing severe shortages, rationing in Asian nations like Sri Lanka and the Philippines, and widespread economic fallout. President Marcos signed Executive Order (EO) No. 110, s. 2026 on March 24, 2026, declaring a State of National Energy Emergency in the Philippines. This move was prompted by ongoing conflicts in the Middle East that threaten global oil supply, and it aims to ensure energy stability, control prices, and protect consumers through a “whole-of-government” approach.                                    

CLARK, Pampanga, Philippines — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led the “Bawat Bayan Makikinabang” Project and the Orientation of Presidential Scholars held at the Clark Picnic Grounds within the Clark Aviation Capital on Thursday, May 14. During the event, President Marcos shared words of encouragement and inspiration with the scholars and beneficiaries, while also overseeing the distribution of assistance under the government’s Local Government Support Fund (LGSF) initiatives. The “Bawat Bayan Makikinabang” Program aims to directly assist low-income families by empowering local government units to implement community-based support programs and essential public services. Held at the newly refurbished Clark Picnic Grounds, the event also highlighted the Clark International Airport Corporation’s (CIAC) ongoing efforts to develop the Clark Aviation Capital and advance its flagship infrastructure and urban renewal projects. “We are honored to welcome President Marcos Jr. and grateful for his recognition of the development initiatives being undertaken here in Clark,” said CIAC President and CEO Jojit Alcazar. As part of the program, 505 barangays in Pampanga and 33 barangays in Angeles City each received ₱200,000 in financial assistance. Under the guidelines of the initiative, half of the allocation, or ₱100,000 per barangay, will be earmarked for scholarship assistance. Each barangay will identify five student-beneficiaries who will receive ₱20,000 each, with priority given to students at risk of dropping out due to financial hardship. Twenty-two Association of Barangay Captains (ABC) presidents attended the ceremonial turnover of checks on behalf of their respective barangays, while around 400 scholars participated in the orientation program. In his message, President Marcos emphasized that the initiative seeks to strengthen barangays by equipping local officials with resources needed to address community needs and improve the delivery of basic services. The administration also continued its food security initiatives through the LGSF Rice Distribution Program, during which 1,500 Aeta beneficiaries received rice assistance. Last month, CIAC formally opened the refurbished Clark Picnic Grounds to the public as part of its Urban Renewal and Heritage Conservation Program, one of the agency’s seven flagship initiatives aimed at transforming Clark into a vibrant, modern, and inclusive public space.  

By Mark Anthony G. Pangan   SAN FERNADO CITY, Pampanga, Philippines (PIA) — The City Government of San Fernando highlighted the importance of preserving Kapampangan heritage while strengthening cultural ties within the ASEAN community during the celebration of National Heritage Month 2026. Led by the city government through the City Tourism Office, the celebration was held at the Santungan Ning Kulturang Kapampangan with the theme “Roots and Horizons: Our Shared Heritage, Our Collective Future”. The event featured cultural activities such as photo exhibits, free calesa rides, food bazaar, and workshops that showcased local artistry and promoted greater appreciation of Kapampangan culture and identity. Preserving heritage and strengthening ASEAN cultural identity City Tourism Officer Ma. Lourdes Carmella Jade Pangilinan emphasized that culture remains a core part of identity that must be preserved and passed on to future generations. “A nation without culture is like a person without a soul. Our cultural identity and heritage are very important as Filipinos,” she said. She noted that the city government continues to promote cultural programs for the youth while also showcasing Kapampangan heritage and positioning it within the broader ASEAN cultural landscape. “As Fernandino Kapampangans and Filipinos, we have a unique cultural heritage that we can proudly share with our neighbors in the region, especially within ASEAN,” she said. Pangilinan also underscored the role of technology in heritage preservation, noting that digital platforms and museum archives can help promote Philippine culture to a wider ASEAN audience. However, she emphasized that while digital tools expand access to cultural materials, human craftsmanship remains irreplaceable. “There are parts of our culture that AI cannot replicate. The craftsmanship of our weavers, wood sculptors, and painters here in Pampanga remains deeply human and unique,” she said. Art as a voice of culture and global recognition Visual storyteller Gerald Gloton (3rd left) receives the Best Southeast Asian Entry award at the Kuala Lumpur International Portrait Photography competition, recognizing his excellence in showcasing culture and storytelling through photography. His works are on exhibit at the Santungan ning Kulturang Kapampangan in the City of San Fernando as part of the celebration of the National Heritage Month 2026. (Endel A. Mallari/PIA 3) Featured artist Gerald Gloton shared how his works are deeply rooted in Kapampangan and Filipino identity, which he continues to bring to international audiences. “I dedicate the images I create to our culture, our city, our province, and our country. It is a source of pride that the craft we have poured our blood, sweat, and tears into is being recognized internationally,” he said. Gloton said receiving the Best Southeast Asian Entry at the Kuala Lumpur International Portrait Photo Awards strengthened his identity as both a Filipino and a member of the ASEAN community. “To be recognized on the global stage as a Kapampangan and Filipino… and receiving a Southeast Asian award makes us proud to be part of the ASEAN community,” Gloton said. He also encouraged young artists and creatives to continue honing their craft and using their talents to tell meaningful and often unheard stories. “Keep shooting, keep persevering, and keep practicing so you can improve your skills over time. Stay passionate, inspire others, and keep discovering stories,” he said. The celebration is part of the city government’s efforts to preserve cultural identity, strengthen public appreciation of local traditions, and promote Kapampangan creativity within the ASEAN cultural community. (MJSC/MAGP, PIA Region 3-Pampanga)

CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, Philippines ⸺The Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) has lined up a series of activities in celebration of the Ease of Doing Business (EODB) Month this May 2026, in support of continuing efforts to improve government service delivery. The CIAC celebration, led by the Management Systems Improvement Department (MSID), will implement activities in accordance with the guidelines issued by the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) under Memorandum Circular No. 2026-0002. This year’s theme is “Achieving Results through Transparency and Accountability (ARTA): Towards a More Productive Bagong Pilipinas.” “CIAC adopts innovative and citizen-friendly measures to streamline processes and reduce bureaucratic red tape in our collective aim to ease business transactions,” CIAC President Jojit Alcazar said. These initiatives include incorporating the official EODB logo in all materials for the annual celebration; displaying the official EODB Month banner in offices, customer service areas, and the main building façade; updating social media cover photos and website banners to reflect official EODB Month branding; and sharing and disseminating official posts, articles, and videos related to the observance. In addition, CIAC will dedicate a segment of its May 2026 flag ceremony to EODB Month and conduct a forum and stakeholders’ activity These will feature discussions, consultations, and learning sessions on regulatory improvements, process streamlining, and enhancing client experience through the Citizen’s Charter. The activities aim to identify “quick wins,” or process steps that can be immediately removed, simplified, or recalibrated to reduce the burden on the transacting public. Information and advocacy initiatives encouraging the sharing of stories, testimonials, and updates on reforms and innovations will also be implemented. Government agencies are likewise encouraged to establish an EODB Lane within their respective offices, where a high-impact external service is designated to facilitate faster, more efficient, and citizen-centric transactions. Alcazar noted that the annual celebration of Ease of Doing Business Month aims to promote a culture of efficiency, transparency, and accountability in government service delivery. In October 2025, CIAC received a Gold Award for Exemplary Performance from ARTA during the 2024 Report Card Survey (RCS) 2.0 First Cycle Implementation, after earning an “Excellent” rating and ranking fourth overall among all government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs) nationwide. Republic Act No. 11032, or the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act of 2018, amended the Anti-Red Tape Act of 2007 to streamline government procedures through prescribed processing times and strengthened the mandate of ARTA to enforce compliance and reduce corruption. Presidential Proclamation No. 818, series of 2025, declared the month of May of every year as Ease of Doing Business (EODB) Month, with ARTA leading its nationwide observance to promote a more efficient and business-friendly government environment.      

By Ruben A. Veloria   IBA, ZAMBALES, Philippines – Governor Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. personally visited and inspected the province’s major infrastructure projects on Apr. 29 to ensure that they are on the right track and each meets high quality standard. Gov. Ebdane was joined in the inspection by Provincial Consultant for Infrastructure and Development Engr. Domingo Mariano, Executive Assistant to the Governor Ms. Larraine B. Rico, and other provincial engineers. The group also inspected the newly constructed Temporary Relocation Building (TRB), which will serve as temporary provincial offices while the new Provincial Capitol Building is under construction. Once the new Provincial Capitol is completed, the TRB building will become the new office of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) and some offices of the Provincial Engineer’s Office (PEO). Ebdane highlighted plans to revitalize the old Provincial Capitol building which is being eyed to become a central venue for provincial events and activities, preserving its historical value while giving it a renewed purpose. The governor noted that regular inspections are part of efforts to ensure infrastructure projects are completed on time, within budget and in accordance with quality standards ensuring that every peso of taxpayers’ money is spent wisely on projects that directly benefit residents.    

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT — Families looking for a unique way to celebrate Mother’s Day can head outdoors as the Zoomanity Group launches a month-long promotion offering free entrance to mothers across its theme parks nationwide. Running from May 1 to 31, 2026, the special offer allows moms to enjoy complimentary admission when accompanied by at least three paying companions. The initiative aims to honor mothers by giving them a well-deserved break through fun-filled and nature-inspired experiences with their families. The promo is available at key destinations including Zoobic Safari, ZOORI (Zoological Park of Tarlac), Zoocobia Fun Zoo, Paradizoo, and Zoocolate Thrills. Visitors can look forward to a wide range of attractions—from close encounters with exotic animals and thrilling safari adventures to relaxing garden walks and interactive farm experiences. The parks offer an ideal setting for families to bond while enjoying the beauty of nature. According to President and CEO of the Zoomanity Group Robert Laurel Yupangco, the campaign is designed not only to celebrate mothers but also to encourage families to spend quality time together outside the usual routine. With Mother’s Day often marked by traditional celebrations, Zoomanity’s offering provides an alternative that focuses on shared experiences and lasting memories. Families are advised to book their visits in advance through the official website, www.zoomanitypayment.com, to secure their slots during the promo period.

By Ruben A.Veloria   CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga, Philippines – “The time should not come when Filipinos will shoot among ourselves,” this was what Zambales Gov. Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. said during the mass oath taking of rebel returnees of allegiance to government. Gov. Ebdane, the concurrent Chairman of the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC), was invited to inspire with his message the 64 former members and supporters of the communist guerilla movement or Underground Mass Organizations (UGMO) who surrendered to government forces in different occasions. “I hope this shall continue for good,” the governor said, and added, “Ako ay natutuwa dahil sa muli inyong pagtitiwala sa ating pamahalaan na bukas-palad kayong tutulungan na makabalik sa inyong normal na pamumuhay.” “Hindi dapat dumating sa pagtkakataon na tayong mga Pilipino ang maglalaban-laban,” Ebdane said. Mentioning that the problem started with misunderstanding regarding religion, culture and ideology. And because of conflicts many were neglected. “But it is now different.” Gov. Ebdane invited by Police Regional (R3) Director P/BGeneral Jess B. Mendez as he believe that the presence of RPOC Chairman, would greatly inspire the returnees as they reintegrate into the mainstream of the society. Meanwhile, BGen. Mendez said the national government, through its armed agencies especially the Philippine National Police, with Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTF-ELCAC), was able to conduct intensified community legal engagements and localized peace engagement. “These engagements resulted in a significant number of UGMO members and supporters to return to the fold of the government,” said Gen. Mendez. Also present during the ceremony was former KADAMAY member Francisco Santiago, KADAMAY or Kalipunan ng Damayang Mahihirap is considered the largest militant alliance of urban poor organizations in the country, advocating for housing for the poor, livelihood, and social services. After the ceremony, a Serbisyo Caravan also been held at the multi-purpose hall of Camp Olivas to assist the returnees to help themselves normalized their lives and families easier. The caravan was participated in by technical staff from Department of Agriculture, Dept. of Trade, DSWD, TESDA, DOH3, DENR3, CHED, SSS, DOLE, PHILHEALTH, and NBI-3.  

The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) is now moving forward with the Clark International Airport (CRK) second runway project as it begins the detailed design phase, marking a key step in improving the airport’s efficiency and supporting long-term aviation growth in Central Luzon. Following a competitive bidding process, the BCDA has awarded the detailed engineering design of the runway to the joint venture of Schema Konsult Inc. and South Korea-based Yooshin Engineering Corp., with a total project cost of Php206.9 million. The additional runway will serve as a backup to the main runway in the event of operational disruption or unavailability,  ensuring continuity of safe operations and enabling non-stop airport activity. The expansion is also expected to support increasing demand from logistics carriers and improve overall airport efficiency. This project is aligned with the Marcos administration’s push to modernize the country’s transport infrastructure and strengthen the logistics network along the Luzon Economic Corridor. “By building a second runway, we are taking a significant step toward strengthening CRK’s operational resilience and long-term capacity. This development will build in redundancy to ensure uninterrupted operations, minimize the risk of disruption, and enhance Clark’s competitiveness as a premier logistics and aviation hub,” BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang said. “More importantly, this development will benefit Clark and the wider Central Luzon region by enhancing connectivity for locators and businesses, while also generating more employment opportunities for the local communities as airport and related support services expand,” he added. The detailed engineering design phase is targeted for completion by the second quarter of 2027. Once the design is finalized, BCDA will conduct a separate bidding process for the construction phase, with the new runway projected to become operational by the fourth quarter of 2029. The Clark International Airport is fast emerging as a premier gateway in the country, having served 2.75 million passengers in 2025. International logistics giants, UPS and FedEx, are also expanding their logistics operations at the airport.  To support the growing demand, as well as the operational requirements of its locators, the BCDA, in partnership with the Department of Transportation, is pushing forward the development of additional airside infrastructure in CRK, including taxiways, aprons, runways, and utilities. These will enable CRK to accommodate more aircraft movement, improve turnaround times, and enhance overall operational efficiency.          

NEW CLARK CITY, Philippines — A 4,000-acre property within New Clark City, Tarlac is set to transform into an industrial hub centered on artificial intelligence (AI) innovation and investments, advancing the Philippine government’s goal of positioning the country as a key global player in emerging technologies. This development comes as the Philippines formally joins the Pax Silica Declaration, a United States-led initiative that seeks to build a secure, resilient, and innovation-driven silicon supply chain covering critical minerals, semiconductors, AI, and advanced manufacturing. The country’s participation in this initiative signals its intent to play a more active role in the rapidly evolving AI and semiconductor landscape. This is in sync with the Marcos administration’s target of establishing the Philippines as a regional AI powerhouse under the National AI Strategy Roadmap. “By joining Pax Silica, the Philippines is ensuring that our mineral resources and strategic location are not simply supporting global industries from the margins, but are actively harnessed to build the industries of the future,” Finance Secretary Frederick Go said in a statement. As part of the country’s commitment, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has allocated a 4,000-acre lot in New Clark City to serve as a Pax Silica Coordination Office where technology firms, research institutions, and government agencies can converge to build a robust AI ecosystem, accelerate innovation, attract high-value investments. Strategically located within the Luzon Economic Corridor, the Coordination Office is the first of its kind to be established under Pax Silica. It is being designated as a “Golden Node,” a new model for AI-native investment acceleration hubs. “The Golden Node is not about recreating the factories of the last century. It is about building the manufacturing ecosystems of the next century—AI-native from day one, anchored in the rule of law, and integrated into a network of trusted nations that will define global supply chain resilience for decades to come,” US Undersecretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg said in a separate statement. *New Clark City as next AI hub* BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang said this development places New Clark City at the center of a pivotal transformation, one that will shape a more innovative, inclusive, and future-ready Philippines. “By establishing this Golden Node, we stand to position New Clark City as a vital link in the global supply chain for advanced technologies and next-generation manufacturing. On the ground, this will translate into more quality job opportunities for Filipinos and greater participation of local enterprises in the growing innovation-driven economy across the globe,” he said. The BCDA will extend a two-year grace period on lease payments, which will be treated as an unconditional in-kind contribution to support the development of economic cooperation initiatives between the two countries. The annual lease rate from the third year onwards will be determined separately under a subsequent agreement. New Clark City is being developed as the country’s first smart, disaster-resilient, and green metropolis. To achieve this vision, the BCDA is actively working to attract technology-driven industries by fostering innovation, building a robust digital infrastructure, and advancing the city as a competitive hub for AI and advanced manufacturing.