By Dante M. Salvaña   Subic Bay Freeport – Bureau of Customs (BOC) Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio led an inspection at the Port of Subic, where fourteen 20-foot container vans of misdeclared sugar products from Vietnam—valued at approximately PhP28,728,000.00—were seized for violations of customs regulations and other pertinent legal provisions. The shipment, declared as “Sweet Mixed Powder,” originated from Dong Nai Province, Vietnam. It was flagged by the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) – Port of Subic for possible misdeclaration and regulatory non-compliance. Laboratory analysis conducted after a physical inspection, in collaboration with the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA), determined that the sucrose content of the samples exceeded 65%, thereby reclassifying the shipment as refined sugar contrary to their declared description. These findings constitute violations of SRA Sugar Order No. 7, S. 2003–2004; SRA and BOC Joint Memorandum Order No. 04-2002; and Sections 1400 and 1113 (f)(k) 1, 4, and 5 of Republic Act No. 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), and Sec. 7 (a) and (e) of the Anti-Agricultural Sabotage Act. In response, District Collector Marlon Fritz Broto, MNSA, issued a Warrant of Seizure and Detention (WSD) on March 28, 2025, against the subject goods. The subject shipments are presently undergoing forfeiture proceedings. Commissioner Rubio emphasized that the operation supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to ensure food security, uphold trade integrity, and combat agricultural smuggling. “This seizure demonstrates our firm resolve to prevent the entry of misdeclared and unregulated goods. We remain aligned with the President’s call to protect consumers, support legitimate businesses, and safeguard the nation’s agricultural interests through strengthened inter-agency cooperation,” he stated. District Collector Broto added, “Through stringent inspections and decisive enforcement actions, the Port of Subic continues to fulfill its duty to secure our borders and maintain the integrity of lawful trade. We thank the SRA for its steadfast support in this operation.” The BOC continues to heighten its enforcement efforts in line with Commissioner Rubio’s 5-Point Priority Program and the broader national campaign against smuggling led by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

Subic Bay Freeport—The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority and Subic Bay Freeport Grain Terminal Services Incorporated (SBFGTSI) conducted a simulation exercise (SimEx) at the latter’s premises inside this premier Freeport on April 4, 2025. According to SBMA Seaport Department SimEx Director Diego P. Aviles, the activity dubbed “Responding to Active Shooter and Barricaded Scenario” was conducted to test procedures and contingency plans for security and safety response operations of both the SBMA and SBFGTSI. “This exercise offers a unique opportunity for all participants to carry out response operations. Our objective is to test the security communication protocol in response to an active shooter and barricaded incident,” Aviles said. He added that the SimEx also aims to assess coordination between security personnel and Emergency Response Units of SBFGTSI and the Law Enforcement Department (LED), and to evaluate the effectiveness and readiness of handling such emergencies following the Port Facility Security Plan. Part of the exercise was conducted to test the response capabilities of the SBMA Seaport Department, and the LED, specifically the Special Weapons and Tactics team, Traffic Branch, and K-9 Unit, as well as the Public Health and Safety Department in terms of emergency response. Aviles, along with SBFGTSI Terminal Manager Engr. Carlito Faustino and SBFGTSI port facility safety officer Gilbert Espiel, reiterated that this exercise offers a unique opportunity for all participants to carry out response operations and to test procedures and contingency plans on security, safety, and any emergency response operations. “This exercise would not have been made possible without the collaboration between the SBFGTSI and SBMA,” Aviles said.          

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT—The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), through its Fire Department, and the Philippine Public Safety Academy (PPSA) are set to sign a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to train the latter’s cadets for a future career in firefighting. SBMA Fire Chief Ranny Magno revealed this plan during the graduation ceremony for the Fire Cadets of PPSA Class of 2025 who have completed the comprehensive Advance Firefighting Training from March 24 to 28, 2025. “I do hope that for the next batch of cadets, the SBMA and PPSA will already have a formal agreement so that this kind of training can be done on a regular basis,” Magno added. Recently, 37 cadets of the “Madayawlahi” Class of 2025, the second batch of PPSA students underwent a week-long intensive firefighting training, including Fire Suppression and Control, and Tactics, and Strategies, where the cadets were able to experience firefighting via simulated exercises. This specialized training also provided them with hands-on experience with modern firefighting equipment, tools, and tactical scenarios. PPSA Commandant of Cadets Mark Anthony S. Saquing expressed his appreciation to the personnel of the SBMA Fire Department for actively playing a vital role in implementing the program with them. He also thanked Fire Chief Magno, who was also the Course Director, as well as his training team composed of Deputy Fire Chief Edwin Santos, John Patrick Ablaza., Alvin Laconsay and Romano Custodio for mentoring their cadets. Saguing said that the training provided a deeper understanding of fireground tactics, the science behind fire behavior, and the leadership required to protect communities in high-stakes emergencies, which are essential qualities for public safety officers. “The fires that you battle are not just those that burn in buildings, but also the challenges that will test your character, endurance, and willpower. Through this training, you have gained not only the knowledge and skills but also the spirit of a true firefighter, one who never gives up, never backs down, and always stands firm in the face of adversity,” Saquing addressed his cadets. PPSA was created under DILG Circular No. 2022-009 otherwise known as the “Creation and Operationalization of Philippine Public Safety Academy pursuant to Republic Act 11279.” It offers graduate degree courses for personnel of the BFP and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) namely, Bachelor of Science in Fire Protection Administration, and Bachelor of Science in Penology and Corrections Administration. (30)          

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT—Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño recently delivered his first State of the Freeport Address (SOFA) at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC) where he shared his accomplishments during the past year and moved on towards disclosing his aspiration of transforming Subic Bay into a Greenport city and a key player in the regional cruise industry. Speaking before the members and board of directors of the Subic Bay Freeport Chamber of Commerce (SBFCC), officials from the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), SBMA Directors, LGU officials, and other stakeholders, Aliño delivered the 17th SOFA in line with the celebration of the 30th anniversary of the SBFCC.   In his address, Aliño revealed that the SBMA is positioning the SBF as a leader in sustainable port operations, highlighting the shore power system initiative that will reduce air pollution by 95%. “Our growth to be the Greenport city, driven by collaborative growth in business and investment, channels a new dimension to pursue our mandate. But this channel is not just the SBMA’s vision and mission, we will need your help, your partnership, and your commitment,” Alino stated. To support this vision, the SBMA is set to construct a dedicated cruise terminal within the next few years, further enhance its port facilities, and expand its international network through sister port agreements with the Port of San Diego in California, Osaka Port in Japan, and other key locations. He highlighted the SBMA’s success in regaining investors that have led to a surge in infrastructure investments, economic activities, and a plan to develop Subic Bay into a major regional cruise hub and stopover for cruise ships both as a home port and turnaround hub. Technological advancements to improve port navigation and security were also introduced with the installation of the country’s most advanced Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS), which enhances real-time vessel monitoring and ensures safer, more efficient port operations. Aliño also cited the SBMA’s ongoing efforts to integrate sustainability into its development plans, ensuring that growth does not come at the expense of the country’s natural environment. He then outlined a series of projects aimed at boosting the Freeport’s position as a leading investment destination, including the development of new industrial parks, expansion of digital infrastructure to support the growing tech sector, and the establishment of Subic Bay as a hub for sustainable and green industries. Key accomplishments of the past year were reported, underscoring the SBMA’s dividend contribution to the national coffers which landed the agency in the top seven. “Aside from the dividends that we contribute to the national government, neighboring communities also get their share of  revenues derived from  corporate taxes. So I would like to thank our locators for paying your taxes because as you can see, here, your taxes go a long way especially in funding infrastructure projects in road rehabilitation and other development projects for our communities,” Alino said. He also discussed the expansion projects of two locators namely, Sanyo Denki and Nidec that are poised to generate a total of 6,500 jobs.  Employment generation is a primary mandate of the agency that is anchored on the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) for 2023-2028 of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration, to strengthen and build a good community here in Subic Bay by improving the quality of life of its stakeholders. “We hope that the plans and programs we have shared  with you pave the way toward even more closer cooperation among us.  Because in Subic, we care…for our shared future, and our shared aspiration of growth and progress for all,” he added.     PHOTO CAPTION:          

Subic Bay Freeport—The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and Subic Water and Sewerage Company Inc. (SubicWater) have extended their franchise agreement (FA) for another 20 years. SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño welcomed this development as the SBMA’s partnership with SubicWater has been harmonious since the latter’s start of operations here in 1997. The 3rd Amendment to the franchise agreement and the 4th Amendment to the SBMA-SubicWater Lease Agreement were signed yesterday at the SBMA Corporate Boardroom at Building 229, extending their FA term until March 31, 2047. The agreements were signed by Chairman Aliño, SubicWater Chairman Engr. Apollo C. Tiglao, and witnessed by Olongapo City Mayor Rolen Paulino Jr. and SubicWater CEO and General Manager Benjamin Antonio III. Chairman Tiglao said that under the amendment, “SubicWater shall undertake measures to achieve 100 percent wastewater coverage including combined sewerages and sanitation services for Subic Bay Freeport and Olongapo City.” He also said that this project would be more beneficial to SubicWater’s customers as Olongapo City will now have wastewater services and sewer lines. Additionally, SubicWater can now expand its services to far-flung areas of Subic Freeport such as Redondo Peninsula and Tipo area as a result of the amendment. Meanwhile, Mayor Paulino also expressed his gratitude to the SBMA and SubicWater for the continued services of the water company. “We had really hoped SubicWater would expand their services. We have been clamoring for the wastewater coverage in Olongapo City,” he added. “We really appreciate that we were involved in the process. Special thanks to SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator Atty. Ramon Agregado for advocating this for the benefit of Olongapo City and all other constituents,” he added.          

Subic Bay Freeport – A joint enforcement operation between the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), and the Naval Special Operations Group (NAVSOG) was conducted against Chinese nationals at the Grande Island here on March 19, 2025. Led by NBI Director Judge Jaime Santiago, the operation resulted to the arrest of six foreign nationals and two Filipino nationals, including Chinese national Qiu Feng, whose real name is Ye Tianwu (also known as Qing Feng). Ye Tianwu was arrested for violations under Republic Act 8799, or the Securities Regulation Code, and RA 10175, also known as the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012. Aside from Ye Tianwu, Philippine authorities also apprehended Xu Xining; Ye Xiaocan; Su Anlong; and He Peng; along with Cambodian Ang Deck/Dick; and Filipinos Melvin Mañosa Aguillon, Jr. and Jeffrey Espiridion, who are employees of Ang Deck/Dick. The authorities recovered multiple cellphones and laptops, one caliber 9mm firearm, and 16 rounds of 9mm ammunition. Meanwhile, SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño lauded the efforts of the inter-agency group led by Director Santiago to apprehend suspects and assured that the “Subic Bay Freeport is NOT a safe haven for lawbreakers.” The arrest exposes the unlawful nature, including suspected espionage and kidnapping activities related to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGO), for which some foreign nationals are using Grande Island under the guise of private enterprises. Such activities, which may be part of larger criminal network operations, pose a serious threat to our national security. The Department of National Defense (DND) confirmed the report, citing that the DENR looks forward to working with the concerned agencies, including the SBMA, in exploring the possibility of declaring Grande Island, along with nearby Chiquita Island, as military reservations. “This will ultimately help secure the operations of the Subic Special Economic Zone including the Riviera Wharf and the Subic Bay International Airport, in consonance with the ongoing development of the naval operating base of the Philippine Navy to strengthen and maintain our strategic presence along our western seaboard.”

The right-of-way (ROW) acquisition for the Subic-Clark-Manila-Batangas (SCMB) Railway Project continues to make headway as the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) distributed another 36 Transfer Certificate of Titles (TCTs) to landowners affected by the project in Pampanga. In a ceremony held on March 4, BCDA Vice President and Subic-Clark Railway Project Director Jocelyn L. Caniones turned over the certificates to 17 lot owners from Porac and Floridablanca. She was joined by Pampanga Board Member Fritzie David-Dizon and Provincial Assessor of Pampanga Manuel N. Mendoza Jr., who represented Pampanga Governor Dennis G. Pineda and Vice Governor Lilia G. Pineda. Citing their contribution to the smooth implementation of the SCMB Railway Project, Caniones lauded the landowners for their cooperation, and for acknowledging the importance of this endeavor in the development of Central Luzon and the country. “Ang SCMB Railway Project ay hindi magtatagumpay kung hindi dahil sa suporta ng mga may-ari ng lupa na nagbigay daan sa mga pangangailangan ng railway na ito. Dahil dito, ang mga landowners ay may mahalagang bahagi sa katuparan ng adhikain ng Luzon Economic Corridor,” Caniones said. “(The SCMB Railway Project would not succeed without the support of the landowners who yielded to the railway’s requirements. This development emphasizes affected landowners’ important role in the realization of the Luzon Economic Corridor vision.)” This is the second batch of TCTs turned over by the BCDA for the SCMB Railway Project following the initial distribution of 68 certificates in November last year. Under Republic Act 10752 or the Right-of-Way Act, the owner of properties affected by a project and the implementing agency shall execute a deed of absolute sale, with the implementing agency facilitating the annotation of the deed of absolute sale on the TCTs. TCTs are legal documents that serve as evidence of ownership of registered land. The SCMB has a railway alignment of 26.9 kilometers in Porac and Floridablanca, affecting 519 lots in these municipalities. The BCDA has successfully completed the negotiations with 212 lot owners, 163 of which have already received either partial or full compensation. “Ang lalawigan ng Pampanga ay lubos na nagpapasalamat sa bawat may-ari ng lote na apektado ng proyektong ito–sa inyong pasensya, kooperasyon at pang-unawa sa buong proseso. Ang inyong kahandaang makipatulungan ay naging mahalaga sa pagsasakatuparan ng proyektong ito,” said Gov. Pineda in a message delivered by Engr. Mendoza. “(The province of Pampanga sincerely thanks every lot owner affected by this project–for your patience, cooperation, and understanding during the whole process. Your readiness to help has been crucial in implementing this project.)” As an integral part of the Luzon Economic Corridor, the 250-kilometer SCMB will provide essential connectivity and freight transport services between four major economic points in Luzon, namely the Port of Subic, Clark International Airport, Port of Manila, and Port of Batangas. This will revolutionize the country’s transport and logistics sector, as these four ports facilitate about 80 percent of the entire country’s port traffic. The BCDA continues to facilitate the ROW acquisition for the project, as the national government remains optimistic about the project’s implementation. The feasibility study for the project will be jointly undertaken by the United States, Sweden, and the Asian Development Bank.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday said a total of P200,000 cash reward will be given to anyone who can provide information that could lead to the arrest of a suspect who killed two police operatives in an anti-illegal drug operations in Bulacan on March 8. In a press conference at Camp Crame in Quezon City, PNP spokesperson and Police Regional Office-Central Luzon (PRO-3) chief Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo said the force mourns the death of Staff Sergeants Dennis Cudiamat and Gian George Dela Cruz, both of Bocaue Municipal Police Station. Fajardo said the PRO-3 cops are conducting a manhunt to locate alias Xander. The other suspect, his brother Dado, was arrested in a follow-up operation. “Naglabas kami (PRO-3) ng reward na P100,000 at nagbigay din ng P100,000 reward ang LGU [local government unit] ng Bocaue as per PD [Provincial Director] of Bulacan sa sinuman makakapagbigay ng information sa posibleng kinaroroonan nitong si alias Xander na maaari makapagturo sa atin at maaresto natin ito sa lalong madaling panahon Fajardo urged the public to cooperate for the immediate arrest of the remaining suspect. On March 8,  a police operation in relation to R.A. 10591 (Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act) resulted in an armed encounter that led to the tragic death of two police operatives in Sitio Tugatog, NIA Road, Brgy. Tambubong, Bocaue, Bulacan. At around 12:00 p.m., Cudiamat and Dela Cruz were conducting a buy bust operation against illegal firearms when they were suddenly attacked by unidentified gunmen. Cudiamat sustained a gunshot wound to the head and did not survive, while Dela Cruz, who suffered critical injuries, was rushed to the hospital. Despite medical intervention, he succumbed to his injuries at approximately 3:00 p.m. the same day. The perpetrators fled toward Pandi, Bulacan, taking the officers’ firearms. In response, the Bulacan Provincial Police Office launched an aggressive follow-up operation, leading to the apprehension of one suspect with alias “Dado,” a 38-year-old resident of Brgy. Bunsuran, Pandi, Bulacan. However, his cohort, alias “Athan,” remains at large after engaging the police officers in a shootout and fleeing with the police officers’ service firearms. Confiscated from the arrested suspect were one caliber .38 revolver without a serial number, one hand grenade, one Rusi 125 motorcycle with a sidecar, one  genuine one-thousand-peso bill used in the buy-bust money, and four boodle money bills. Further investigation led to the discovery of a Honda Beat motorcycle in Brgy. Bunsuran 2nd, Pandi, Bulacan, believed to have been used by the fleeing suspect. Authorities are actively tracking him using surveillance footage and intelligence reports. Criminal charges for violations of R.A. 10591 (Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act) in relation to the Omnibus Election Code, R.A. 9516 (Illegal Possession of Explosives), and double murder are now being prepared against both the arrested and at-large suspects. Fajardo, strongly condemned the attack and assured that justice will be served. “The Philippine National Police will relentlessly pursue all those responsible for this heinous attack. We will not rest until justice is served. This act of violence against our personnel will not go unpunished, and we will ensure that the full force of the law is brought down upon the perpetrators.” She also expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the two officers. “We mourn the tragic deaths of our brave police operatives who dedicated their lives to serving and protecting the public. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families, and we assure them of our support during this difficult time. Their courage and sacrifice will never be forgotten.” PRO 3 remains steadfast in its pursuit of justice and urges anyone with relevant information to report to the nearest police station. Intensified operations are ongoing to locate and apprehend the remaining suspect.            

The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) is seeking to partner with a consortium of South Korean and local companies to develop a 6.1-hectare affordable housing complex in New Clark City, aiming to address the country’s housing shortage and foster sustainable urban growth. The consortium includes Sta. Clara International Corporation (SCIC), Saekyung Realty Corporation, and Korea Overseas Infrastructure and Urban Development Corporation (KIND), which is expected to invest approximately Php4.8 billion in the project. The development aligns with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11 (SDG 11), which aims to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable. This also forms part of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino (4PH) Program, which seeks to provide affordable housing for low-income families. The project will feature 12 high-density residential buildings, with a total of 3,320 units. Of these, 2,600 units across nine buildings will be allocated for the open market, while the remaining 720 units in three buildings will be part of the 4PH Program. “Beyond addressing housing needs, this project, if realized, will generate jobs, attract investment, and drive economic growth in Central Luzon, ” BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang said in a statement. Aside from residential units, the project will also include modern infrastructure and essential amenities, such as green spaces and parks for recreation and wellness, road networks and stormwater drainage systems to enhance resilience, fire protection measures and disaster-ready structures, retail and commercial spaces, sports and leisure facilities to promote community engagement. Engr. Bingcang emphasized that these features will contribute to New Clark City’s goal of becoming a smart, sustainable, and disaster-resilient metropolis, designed to withstand climate challenges while enhancing the quality of life for its residents. In 2023, BCDA entered into a memorandum of understanding with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), the project’s implementing agency, to develop the initial housing units under the 4PH Program inside New Clark City.