Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga, Philippines — The Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) has signed memoranda of understanding (MOUs) with three Singapore-based aviation firms Dviation Training Centre Sdn. Bhd., Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University–Asia Ltd., and ST Engineering Urban Solutions Ltd., marking a major step toward the development of the Clark International Aviation Campus. The agreements were signed during the Asia-Pacific Conference and Exhibition on Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) held in Singapore from 16 to 19 September 2025. “Aviation in Singapore is a key component of its successful economy, and we’re fortunate to forge mutually beneficial relationships with leading institutions here,” Alcazar said. He added that the partnerships are aimed at sharing expertise to help establish Clark’s own Clark International Aviation Campus as part of its Seven Flagship Projects, a key component of CIAC’s broader vision to transform Clark into the country’s premier aviation and logistics hub. The first MOU, signed on 17 September with Dviation Training Centre Chief Executive Officer Ibnu Hidayat Ishak, focuses on cooperation in aviation training and development.  The Dviation Group provides comprehensive aviation services including aircraft acquisition, operations, and technical support. On 18 September, Alcazar signed another agreement with ST Engineering Urban Solutions Ltd., represented by its president, Gareth Tang, to explore collaboration in developing smart city and aviation technologies at the Clark aviation complex.  The initiative aims to support the area’s growth through sustainable and intelligent infrastructure. Also on 18 September, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University–Asia Ltd. (ERAU-Asia) Vice Chancellor Matthew Flaherty signed an MOU to explore joint efforts in aviation education, training, and workforce development.  Embry-Riddle is globally recognized as one of the largest universities specializing in aviation and aerospace. “These partnerships affirm CIAC’s commitment to building strong ties with global industry leaders to advance Clark’s role as a leading aviation hub in the Philippines,” Alcazar said. The Clark International Aviation Campus is part of the broader Clark Aviation Capital, which includes the Clark International Airport, Clark Global City, and over 60 locators across aviation, logistics, commercial, and manufacturing sectors. The complex is managed by CIAC and positioned as the country’s premier aviation-related and logistics complex.  

By Ruben A.Veloria   SUBIC BAY FREEPORT, Philippines – The residential cruise ship Villa Vie Odyssey docked at this Freeport on Tuesday morning as its maiden ship call here. Officials and employees of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), along with representatives from the Bureau of Immigration, Bureau of Quarantine, and other stakeholders, welcome the passengers and crew of the cruise ship M/V Villa Vie Odyssey. Some 650 passengers disembarked from the cruise ship will be staying until tomorrow, while her passengers visit the many tourism destinations here. The Villa Vie Odyssey is a residential cruise ship offering a unique, full-time world cruise experience for residents, or “global residents,” who purchase cabins for long-term stays, rather than traditional shorter cruises. Once known as the Braemar, the 924-passenger ship was purchased by Villa Vie Residences in 2023 and underwent a significant refurbishment before its 2024 launch. The ship is designed to be smaller than mega-ships, allowing access to smaller, unique ports, and features a variety of amenities, including dining, pools, a gym with Peloton bikes, and community spaces for activities like art and fitness classes.            

  PAMPANGA, Philippines – President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. granted the Provincial Government of Zambales special patents for two educational institutions during the distribution of land titles in San Ferando City, this province, on September 19. Zambales Governor Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. personally received from the President the two special patents for Iba Elementary School, and Zambales National High School. A special patent is a document granted by the government that confirms the transfer of ownership to the grantee over a parcel of public land for government use, such as public schools. “This is momentous day for our educational history,” said Gov. Ebdane, adding that for more than a century, the two Zambales schools are sitting on government land. “Now, they are on their own property.” In 1913, then Congressman Alejo Labrador established a vocational school in a property donated by the province. The school later became Zambales National High School, however, the property remains owned by the local government, until the awarding of special patent. The two special patents were among the 11 special patents awarded by the President during the “Handog ng Pangulo: Financial Assistance to Farmworkers and Distribution of Titles” ceremony held in San Fernando, Pampanga. Present during the ceremony were Pampanga Gov. Lilia Pineda, DSWD Sec. Rex Gachalian, DPWH Sec. Vivencio Dizon, and DENR Sec. Rafael Lotilla, and thousands of farm workers from across Region I, II, III, V, IV-A, and CAR. Under the vison of Bagong Pilipinas, the President distributed 520 land patents and deeds of sale to beneficiaries, five (5) for agricultural free patents, 11 special patents, and three (3) deeds of sale. The program aligns with the President’s directive for bureaucratic efficiency by simplifying land titling processes, reducing disputes and improving transparency in land management. It is an ongoing initiative where qualified recipients are granted land ownership rights by the DENR’s regional and field offices through land patent issuance under Commonwealth Act 141, as amended by Republic Act (R.A.) No. 11573, R.A. No. 10023 or the Residential Free Patent Act, and Proclamation No. 172, along with other legal requirements.  

BULACAN, Philippines — Bulacan is carving out its place as one of the country’s fastest-growing provinces, balancing its historic identity with a modern push toward development. With an official vision of becoming a first-world province by 2040, digital connectivity has become a core requirement for households, schools, and businesses. Globe is answering this call with accelerated tower builds in Malolos, San Jose del Monte, Santa Maria and several other towns. Key Growth Areas for Expansion Malolos, the provincial capital, continues to attract businesses, schools, and government agencies that require steady digital access. San Jose del Monte, the most populated city in Central Luzon, is undergoing rapid urbanization, driving demand for wider mobile and internet coverage. In Santa Maria, where dense communities and growing commercial activity push up data use, Globe’s network expansion ensures families and entrepreneurs are better served. Beyond the Urban Hubs Globe is not only focusing on urban centers. New towers have been completed in Meycauayan and in the towns of Bocaue, Pulilan, San Ildefonso, San Miguel, Guiguinto, Norzagaray, and Plaridel. These areas are home to a mix of industrial zones, residential communities, and small enterprises that all rely on dependable connectivity to thrive. Real Benefits for Communities The stronger network answers real needs. Families can access online government services, manage telehealth consultations, and enjoy entertainment without interruption. MSMEs can expand operations online, market their products beyond Bulacan, and use digital payment platforms more reliably. Students and teachers gain more stable access to e-learning tools, leveling the playing field with peers in bigger cities. Affordable Options for Every Need Globe backs up its network builds with affordable options for customers. Prepaid subscribers can enjoy Go+99 with complimentary 5G data, while TM users can stretch their budgets through EZ50 5G. For those requiring consistent performance, GPlan postpaid packages and Globe At Home broadband bring stable high-speed service for households and enterprises alike. Fast-Tracking Bulacan’s Digital Growth These infrastructure projects highlight Globe’s commitment to bridging digital gaps and supporting Bulacan’s transformation as a leading province in Central Luzon. Stronger networks make it possible for the province to meet the needs of its people today while also laying the groundwork for long-term economic growth.  

Angeles City, Philippines –– Converge Global Business, the corporate and large enterprise unit of leading fixed broadband and technology provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc. has forged a new alliance with Savers Group Holdings Inc., the owner and operator of Best Western Plus Metro Clark and Best Western Plus Hotel Subic. This undertaking is set to revolutionize the hospitality landscape in Central Luzon by providing guests with world-class connectivity and entertainment services. Under this new collaboration, Converge will equip both Best Western Plus locations with advanced fiber connectivity and its cutting-edge hospitality solution, Content Plus. This integration will offer a seamless digital experience for guests, ensuring access to high-speed internet for both business and leisure, as well as a rich selection of premium entertainment channels. This initiative is a significant boost to the tourism sector in the Angeles and Subic areas. By elevating their digital infrastructure, Best Western hotels will enhance their desirability to modern travelers who expect a connected and convenient experience. The availability of reliable, high-speed internet and innovative entertainment services will reinforce the region’s reputation as a premier destination for tourists and business travelers alike. “We are incredibly excited to support a premier hospitality brand like Best Western,” said Quennie Joy Lopez, Converge Global Business Sales Acting Sector Head (Luzon). “This collaboration is a testament to our commitment to empowering the hospitality industry with world-class digital solutions. By providing a dependable, high-performance connectivity, we are helping Best Western deliver a new standard of luxury and convenience that will delight their guests and contribute significantly to the local tourism economies of Subic and Angeles City.” Justine Shaun Uy, Executive Vice President of Savers Group Holdings Inc., shared his enthusiasm, stating, “Our new partnership with Converge is a direct response to the evolving needs of the modern traveler. We believe that seamless connectivity and premium entertainment are essential to a great stay, and at Best Western, our guests’ satisfaction is our highest priority. By integrating these services, we’re not just providing rooms; we’re creating an environment where every guest can feel perfectly at ease, whether they’re here to work, relax, or explore.” This undertaking highlights the shared vision of both Converge and Best Western Plus to innovate and deliver outstanding value. It represents a major step forward in modernizing the digital infrastructure of the Philippine hospitality sector, promising to deliver superior quality and satisfaction to every guest. Businesses interested in modernizing their operations, enhancing their digital services, and driving operational efficiency are encouraged to explore the wide range of solutions offered by Converge Global Business. To learn more or to request a personalized consultation, contact the Global Business Group at globalbusiness@convergeict.com or visit www.convergeict.com.            

OLONGAPO CITY, Philippines —  Aboitiz Renewables Inc., through wholly-owned subsidiary AP Renewable Energy Corporation, signed a P7.4-billion project finance deal with the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) to fund the engineering, construction, operation, and maintenance of the 221 megawatt peak (MWp) Olongapo solar power plant in Zambales. The project is currently 95% complete and is on track for testing and commissioning by the third quarter of 2025, connecting to the Castillejos 230 kilovolt substation of the grid operator. Upon completion, the solar PV capacity will be Aboitiz Renewables’ largest solar project to date. “Olongapo Solar represents a major contribution to AboitizPower’s clean energy portfolio and more so to achieving the Philippines’ energy transition targets,” said Aboitiz Renewables President Jimmy Villaroman. “Every project we build is the product of a highly motivated organization contributing to AboitizPower’s energy transition effort.” AP Renewable Energy Corporation is the project company for the construction of the Olongapo solar power plant, which began in the first quarter of 2024. The company is wholly-owned by Aboitiz Renewables, the renewable energy arm of Aboitiz Power Corporation (AboitizPower). Aboitiz Renewables holds the investments and interests of AboitizPower in various renewable energy projects, including geothermal, large hydro, run-of-river hydro, wind, battery energy storage systems, and solar projects. According to the Energy Regulatory Commission, AboitizPower is the market leader in power generation capacity, with a national market share of 23.86% as of July 2025. Together with its partners, AboitizPower also offers the largest renewable energy portfolio in the Philippines based on installed capacity under its operational control.    

By Ruben A. Veloria Almost no cost to the province ZAMBALES, Philippines – The provincial government of this province is fast tracking the development of the 62-hectare campsite to house the 30,000 scouts from Asia and the Pacific countries who will be attending the 33rd Asia-Pacific Regional Scout Jamboree in December 14, 2025. According to Zambales Provincial Engineering Office chief Engr. Domingo Mariano, provincial crews are now working 24/7 to meet the deadline to develop the campsite in Barangay San Juan, Botolan here, into the best scout jamboree campsite ever prepared. Having the theme “Be Prepared: Scouts for Peace and Sustainable Development,” this year’s scouting event aims to gather thousands of young people ages 12 to 17 from across the region for a week of learning, growth, cultural exchange, and creating lasting friendships. “The scouts will advocate sustainable development, the Global Development Village, the Asia-Pacific Village, Faith Valley. They will also treat with exciting outdoor activities, and the opportunity to experience traditions, and cultures, and the taste local delicacies,” said Engr. Mariano. Based on Boy Scout of the Philippines (BSP) website, among the delegations who have already submitted their confirmation for the event, include Bangladesh, Fiji, Hong Kong, South Korea, TGA Scouts of China, Brunei Darussalam, Maldives, USA, Canada, Kuwait, and the host country, the Philippines which will be sending 26,800 scouts. Provincial Engineer Mariano boasted that despite the seemingly grandeur project, the local provincial government has not spent a single peso for the development of the area, except for fuels of the machineries and machines. The BSP has shouldered the cost of rental of the site. “Through the prudent initiatives of Gov. Hermogenes Ebdane, Jr., the local government of Zambales is purchasing heavy equipment and trucks using revenue earnings of the province,” said Mariano. Mariano explained that as chairman of the Zambales Provincial Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) Gov. Ebdane wanted to have a fleet of heavy equipment and ready-to-use supply of construction materials that can be used during emergency, and for other community projects. The official also noted that old but reusable materials from demolished old buildings and bridges were kept for future use. “As you can see, we already built five small bridges inside the campsite with no cost to the province,” he added. Meanwhile, Engineer Mariano showed to media the four major infrastructure projects of the provincial government worth ₱1-Billion which contracts were terminated or cancelled prior to review of the Commission on Audit (COA). The projects were awarded to contractors included in the 15 contractors named by the President which bagged P100 billion in flood control projects, including: 5-story New Capitol Building worth ₱499,661,764; and the two-storey sports complex, tract and football stadium, with a capacity of 20,000 persons, worth ₱499,000,600, both were awarded to St. Gerald Contraction owned by Cezarah Cruz-Discaya. The other two projects were: Provincial Capitol Annex Multi-Purpose Building worth ₱213,280,421 (RD Talens Construction); and the 165-bed capacity PRMMH Provincial Hospital worth ₱399,773,774, awarded to Hi-Tone Construction and Dev’t. Corp. Engr. Mariano, clarified that construction of the projects were partially completed with an average of 2.0% ahead of schedule. “Despite all the news we heard about the allegedly anomalous projects involving the construction firms, all their projects here in Zambales have no problem recorded,” he added. Engr. Mariano has assured the public that the construction of the projects will resume immediately once they receive clearance from COA.      

Subic Bay Freeport, Philippines – Around 300 qualified workers were among the first wave of beneficiaries of the “Benteng Bigas Meron (BBM) na” program launched by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño recalled that when President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. appointed him to lead the agency, he was asked to “take care of Subic Bay workers.” “Here in Subic Bay, we regard our workers as the bloodline of our economy, and I’m glad that this program would greatly help the minimum wage earners here,” Aliño said. The BBM program, in coordination with the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Labor Department, was launched yesterday, September 4, 2025, at Cresc Incorporated in the Moonbay Marina, Central Business District here. SBMA Labor Department manager and OIC-Deputy Administrator for Legal Affairs Atty. Melvin Varias, said that the DOLE-led program aims to bring ₱20-per-kilo rice to the workforce of the Subic Bay Freeport. Varias added that the program here, spearheaded by DOLE Chief Labor and Employment Officer Reynante Lugtu, is a flagship program of President Ferdinand “Bong Bong” Marcos Jr. to stabilize rice prices and make basic goods more accessible. Kazutomo Murata, Cresc Inc. president, thanked DOLE and SBMA for being chosen as among the first company to benefit from the program. “Marami yan! Ako rin [pahingi]! I am glad that you have President Marcos who loves you. We don’t have this in Japan,” said Kazutomo. Meanwhile, Aliño added that aside from the government programs, the agency has three projects that would benefit the workers, namely: dormitories, to bring workers closer to their place of work; development of the Mini Golf Course into a park, to provide a place for unwinding; and the e-bus, which the agency is working on at least a very minimal fare, if not free. The beneficiary workers were given a maximum of ten kilos each, and will be paid through salary deduction by the Cresc Inc. administration. Cresc Incorporated is a leading consumable printer ink manufacturer based in Japan. The company is the second company in the Subic Freeport in the printer refilling trade.