By Ruben A.Veloria   ​SUBIC, Zambales — Crystal Bridges Holding Corporation (CBHC), owned by Puregold Price Club founder Lucio Co, has officially taken over the management and operations of PrimeWater in this municipality. ​ The transition follows CBHC’s 100% acquisition of PrimeWater Infrastructure Corp.’s stocks from the Villar Group, effectively transferring control of the Subic Water District joint venture as of May 11, 2026. ​ The acquisition was announced during a media briefing attended by senior PrimeWater officials, led by President Engr. Jose Paulino Santamarina and General Manager Engr. Jose Dinulong. Also present were Subic Mayor Jon Khonghun, Zambales 1st District Representative Jay Khonghun, and Subic Water District Chairperson Paulyn Goña. ​ An Apology to Consumers ​During the briefing, Santamarina apologized to the thousands of local households—representing roughly 35% of Subic’s water consumers—who have been plagued by chronic water shortages. ​”We recognize the severe impact these water disruptions have had on local businesses and households,” Santamarina said. “We sincerely apologize to the public for the hardships they have experienced.” ​To address these issues, Santamarina announced several immediate initiatives to ensure a steady, high-pressure water supply through the dry and rainy seasons alike. The new management’s pipeline for the year includes constructing three new deep wells and replacing aging distribution pipes. ​Local Leadership Demands Accountability tability ​Local officials did not hold back their frustration regarding the town’s previous service provider. ​”We were completely neglected by PrimeWater,” Subic Mayor Jon Khonghun said in Tagalog. “This must not happen again under Crystal Bridges.” ​Congressman Jay Khonghun echoed the sentiment, noting that past promises went unfulfilled. “The Villar Group promised us infrastructure development and better services, but nothing was delivered. Under Lucio Co’s leadership, we expect genuine and improved service.” ​To ensure accountability, Rep. Khonghun, Mayor Khonghun, and Engr. Dinulong have mandated that the new management submit a comprehensive program plan, detailing specific engineering upgrades and project timelines. ​Funding and Rate Freezes ​When asked if Co was prepared to heavily invest in the rehabilitation of Subic’s water network, Santamarina assured the public that the necessary capital is already secured. ​”Crystal Bridges is fully committed. The resources have been prepared, and the funds are ready,” Santamarina stated. “The new management will settle all outstanding liabilities left behind by the previous operator. We acknowledge the financial obligations required for a total system rehabilitation, and we have sufficient funding to do it.” ​ In a final reassurance to residents, Santamarina pledged a strict rate freeze during the transition period. ​”While we work on improving water services across all barangays in Subic, there will be absolutely no water rate increases until all promised upgrades are completed and consumers are fully satisfied with our service,” Santamarina concluded.          

Subic Bay Freeport, Philippines – A partnership that will help Persons Restored of Liberty (PRLs) blend back into the country’s workforce was signed between the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology Regional Office III (BJMPRO-III). SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño signed the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on the Workplace Reintegration Program for Persons Restored of Liberty (PRLs) with BJMP Region 3 Director Jail Chief Superintendent (JCSupt) Ma. Annie A. Espinosa, at the SBMA Administration Building on June 4, 2026. SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator Atty. Ramon O. Agregado, SBMA Labor Department Manager Atty. Melvin Varias, BJMPPO Zambales administrator JSupt Ferdinand G. Malabo, and officials of the Olongapo District Jail witnessed the signing. Aliño said that the agreement establishes a Workplace Reintegration Program to enhance public safety and extend rehabilitative or reformative efforts to PRLs or those released from incarceration. “Personally, I am a firm supporter of programs that aim to reintegrate PRLs as reformed and productive members of mainstream society. I strongly believe that it is not only our civic responsibility but more importantly, a just and humane act of service to our fellowmen,” he said. The program facilitates social mainstreaming and productivity by creating employment opportunities within the Subic Bay Freeport Zone through qualified skills-matching. Last year, the SBMA also entered into an agreement with the Department of Justice-Parole and Probation Administration (DOJ-PPA) for a workplace reintegration program for parolees, probationers, and pardonees. “In fact, that partnership or agreement made the SBMA the first government-owned and controlled corporation to support the DOJ-PPA’s workplace reintegration plan. Among our earlier initiatives toward this end was the promotion of inclusive employment,” Aliño said. Meanwhile, Espinosa said the agreement is a significant step toward strengthening the PDL’s reintegration into society. She added that the activity emphasizes both institutions’ shared commitment to support reformation beyond incarceration by creating pathways to meaningful and sustainable employment. “By opening doors to legitimate work opportunities, the agreement seeks to empower PDLs with dignity, purpose, and a renewed sense of responsibility as they transition back into society,” she cited. “Through this milestone partnership, the BJMPRO-III and the SBMA reaffirm their dedication to transforming lives, fostering hope, and creating a more inclusive community where reformation is matched with real opportunities for growth and success.”              

Subic Bay Freeport, Philippines – The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has allotted 800-square meters of land to be utilized by the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) for the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC) initiatives. SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño and BCDA President/ CEO Joshua M. Bingcang formalized this pact in a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) at the SBMA administration building on June 3, 2026. SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator for Support Services Atty. Ramon O. Agregado and BCDA Senior Vice President for Conversion and Development Group Engr. Mark P. Torres witnessed the signing of the MOA along with officials and employees from both agencies. Aliño stated that the designated area will serve as a workspace for BCDA officials and employees involved in official duties throughout the construction of the Subic-Clark-Manila-Batangas (SCMB) Railway Project and the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) interchange expansion. “We are delighted to have you join our community. This partnership is more than just us lending you a parcel of land. It is a commitment to building a vibrant, supportive, and sustainable home for your staff. We look forward to ensuring that their living experience here is not only comfortable but truly enriching,” Aliño said. Meanwhile, Bingcang said that this prepositioning of BCDA officials and staff is part of the agency’s thrust to ensure that the BCDA’s assets in Bataan accelerate investments and development activities in the region. He added that these combined developments are expected to boost investment inflows further and increase personnel movement and operational demands in and around the Subic-Bataan-Clark growth area. The agreement signed by the two agencies stipulates the use of an approximately 800-square-meter vacant residential lot located between Lots 95 and 97 Corsair Street, West Kalayaan, Kalayaan Heights District, Subic Bay Freeport Zone. The allocation was approved by the SBMA Board of Directors through Resolution No. 25-07-1360 dated July 10, 2025, subject to the terms and conditions of the MOA and applicable SBMA rules and regulations. The said arrangement supports inter-agency cooperation in advancing national government infrastructure priorities and strengthening the BCDA’s operational presence within the Subic-Clark-Bataan development axis.          

NEW CLARK CITY, Philippines — The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has signed strategic partnership agreements with Japanese firms to support key infrastructure, energy, and transport projects in New Clark City, reinforcing its role in the Luzon Economic Corridor initiative. During President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s state visit to Tokyo, BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang signed memoranda of understanding (MOUs) with Japanese energy-tech company Sustech; transport and infrastructure firms Index Strategy, Inc. and Yachiyo Engineering Co.; and Japanese trading and investment giant Marubeni Corporation. The partnerships are expected to support the development of smart energy systems, integrated transport infrastructure, and utility-ready ecosystems designed to attract high-value and technology-driven industries into New Clark City. The initiatives form part of broader efforts to strengthen the Luzon Economic Corridor, a strategic economic initiative involving the Philippines, the United States, and Japan that seeks to improve connectivity and accelerate investments across Subic, Clark, Manila, and Batangas. Under the agreement with Sustech, BCDA will explore the application of advanced technologies that can improve renewable energy forecasting and electricity demand management in New Clark City. The initiative aims to support the transition of New Clark City toward a low-carbon and demand-responsive energy system capable of supporting future large-scale locators and energy-intensive industries. (seated from L-R) Index Strategy, Inc. CEO Kimikazu Uemura, Yachiyo Engineering Co. General Manager for Business Development and Administration Gaku Adachim, and BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang signed a memorandum of understanding for the feasibility study of the Clark Integrated Transport System. (standing from L-R) Philippine Ambassador to Japan Mylene De Joya Garcia-Albano, Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque, and Department of Finance Undersecretary Atty. Rolando Ligon Jr. witnessed the signing. BCDA photo.  Meanwhile, BCDA signed an MOU with Index Strategy and Yachiyo Engineering Co. to establish a collaborative framework for conducting a study on the Clark Integrated Transport System. The proposed transport system is envisioned to strengthen regional mobility, improve supply chain efficiency, and position New Clark City as a strategic multimodal transport hub within the Luzon Economic Corridor. (seated from L-R) Marubeni Corporation Senior Operating Officer Chiba Seijiro, and BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang signed a memorandum of understanding to explore opportunities in developing power, water, and utility infrastructure in New Clark City.  (standing from L-R) Philippine Ambassador to Japan Mylene De Joya Garcia-Albano, Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque, and Department of Finance Undersecretary Atty. Rolando Ligon Jr. witnessed the signing. BCDA photo.  BCDA also entered into a partnership with Marubeni Corporation to jointly explore opportunities for the development of power, water, and utility infrastructure in New Clark City. These partnerships will help establish the infrastructure-ready ecosystems in New Clark City necessary to support industries requiring reliable and scalable utilities, including advanced manufacturing, digital infrastructure, hyperscale data centers, and technology-driven enterprises. “Our collaboration with leading Japanese institutions and corporations reflects a shared vision of creating smart, future-ready communities powered by innovation, connectivity, and sustainable development,” Engr. Bingcang said. “These partnerships will help strengthen New Clark City’s competitiveness as an investment destination and support broader economic opportunities across Central Luzon and the country,” he added. Aside from the signing ceremonies, the BCDA delegation also met with the Japan Overseas Infrastructure Investment Corporation for Transport and Urban Development (JOIN) to present high-impact transport, utility, and real estate pipeline projects and explore potential Japanese investment and financing participation through public-private partnerships and joint ventures. The agreements were signed on 29 May 2026 in Tokyo on the sidelines of the state visit. BCDA said the partnerships support the infrastructure and economic development agenda of the Marcos administration, particularly efforts to strengthen regional connectivity, accelerate strategic investments, and position the Philippines as a competitive destination for high-value industries. BCDA added that the MOUs signed reflect growing international confidence in New Clark City and the Philippines’ long-term infrastructure and economic development agenda, particularly as the government positions Central Luzon as a key investment and logistics corridor in the region.

Subic Bay Freeport,Philippines – Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) received a patient transport vehicle from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) during a turnover ceremony held at its head office in Pasay City on May 26, 2026. PAGCOR President and Chief Operations Officer (COO) Atty. Wilma T. Eisma turned over the patient transport vehicle to SBMA Public Health and Safety Department (PHSD) Medical Services Division OIC, Dr. Arlene Gravina-Cesa. SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño expressed his gratitude to PAGCOR for the patient transport vehicle which will boost the efficiency of medical service delivery in Subic Bay Freeport. “My heartfelt thanks to PAGCOR, especially to Chairman Alejandro H. Tengco, for providing the Freeport with a patient transport vehicle. This unit will certainly enhance the services of our Public Health and Safety Department (PHSD) during the scheduled, non-emergency transfer of clinically stable patients,” he said. “Kay Mam Amy (Eisma), marami pong salamat at hindi pa rin kayo nakakalimot sa iyong dating tahanan, ang SBMA,” he added. Meanwhile, according to Tengco, the donation is part of the agency’s broader efforts to make basic healthcare more accessible, ensuring that communities and sectors in need, are able to receive urgent medical attention through these new patient transport vehicles. “More than simply meeting targets, it reflects a clear commitment: to support healthier, more resilient communities by investing in essential services people rely on when it matters most,” he said. The donation is one of many under PAGCOR’s ongoing nationwide program to distribute medical transport vehicles. Aside from the SBMA, PAGCOR also donated patient transport vehicles to the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) (two vehicles), Bureau of Corrections (BuCor), and the local government units of Manay, Davao; Narra, Palawan; and Dumaguete.              

  SUBIC BAY, Olongapo City – A combined educational and eco-tourism adventure is now popular among tourists as it can be experienced in a part of the forest that has been converted into a wildlife sanctuary and forest adventure withinthe Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA). The 25-hectare forest is now managed by Zoobic Safari Corp., created in November 2003 as a premier wildlife project, which unlike conventional zoos, specializes in immersive, close-up interactions with animals and is widely celebrated as hosting the only tiger safari in the country. The most unique experience within the park is the Tiger Safari ride, where visitors are safely inside the customized safari jeep that passes directly through a large enclosed habitat where adult Tigers free-roaming around, which can be fed fresh meat and jump on top of the vehicle. An estimated 200 crocodiles can be seen inside the Croco Loco, where visitors can safely walk on top to view them and have the opportunity to lower chicken meat onto a line to feed them. Visitors also enjoy tame deer, ostriches and other animals and can also see lions up close. A cultural event that highlights the history and talent of the indigenous Aeta people on the Aetas Trail.According to SBMA data, Zoobic Safari has contributed a large percentage to tourist arrivals and tourism continues to increase according to the official annual statistical breakdown of the SBMA. In 2025, tourist arrivals recorded an increase of P1.15 million (overnight guests) compared to P1.09 million in 2024, while P10.70 million (day-trippers) were recorded in 2025, compared to P10.49 million in 2024. (By Zaldy Comanda)          

BATAAN, Philippines — The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) is ramping up efforts to advance electric vehicle (EV) development and sustainable mobility in Bataan, following a site visit and engagement with industry partners and local stakeholders at the 200-hectare Morong Discovery Park. BCDA Executive Vice President Atty. Gisela Kalalo and Vice President for Strategic Projects Management Randy Viacrusis, led a site visit and briefing at Morong Discovery Park with officials of Provincial Government of Bataan, V-Green Global Charging Station Development Corporation, and VinFast Electric Vehicle Philippines Corporation, to explore opportunities for the potential establishment of an EV manufacturing facility within Morong Discovery Park. The activity highlighted the park’s potential as a strategic location for green and future-ready industries. Following the site visit, BCDA witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the Provincial Government of Bataan and V-Green Global Charging Station Development Corporation for the planning, deployment, and operation of EV charging infrastructure across the province. The partnership aims to establish a province-wide EV charging network, support the adoption of EV fleets, promote environmentally sustainable transport solutions, and develop long-term infrastructure for the EV ecosystem. Initial efforts include the rollout of DC fast charging stations, identification of suitable locations, coordination with relevant government agencies, and public awareness initiatives to encourage EV adoption. Morong Discovery Park is one of the key locations being considered for EV manufacturing investment. The development of the park supports BCDA’s goal of transforming its properties into centers of innovation, sustainability, and economic growth. BCDA Executive Vice President Atty. Gisela Kalalo emphasized the importance of partnerships in turning sustainability goals into action, “Partnerships like this turn long-term plans into concrete action. More importantly, they bring cleaner mobility and better air quality closer to our communities. At BCDA, we believe development should uplift people’s lives while caring for the environment. This initiative supports our vision of building green, inclusive, and future-ready communities, while opening opportunities for investments in EV manufacturing, logistics, and other sustainable industries in Bataan.” The initiative is aligned with the development agenda of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., particularly in promoting green infrastructure, improving energy efficiency, and advancing sustainable economic development. About V-Green V-Green Global Charging Station Development Corporation is engaged in the planning, development, and operation of electric vehicle charging infrastructure aimed at building an accessible and reliable nationwide charging network.

Subic Bay Freeport, Philippines – The United States Embassy delegation for the Luzon Economic Corridor Steering Committee visited this premier Freeport on May 13, 2026, seeking to create more investment opportunities. US Ambassador Heather Variava, Senior Advisor for Economic, Energy, and Business Affairs, and Head of Delegation for the committee, together with several representatives of the US economic team, arrived here as part of the mission to work on US-Philippines growth through a series of coordination with government officials and business leaders. The ambassador met with officials of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), led by Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño, to discuss economic growth efforts for the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC). The LEC is a multi-billion-dollar economic partnership designed to supercharge infrastructure, logistics, and supply-chain connectivity between four primary hubs in the Philippines: Subic Bay, Clark, Manila, and Batangas. Chairman Aliño said that the trilateral initiative with the US, Japan, and the Philippines has now expanded to include Australia, Denmark, France, Italy, South Korea, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. “This ambitious venture will strengthen infrastructure, supply chains, and green energy across Subic, Clark, Manila, and Batangas. It is most timely that Her Excellency Heather Variava and her delegation visit us now, as the Luzon Economic Corridor gains momentum through international partnerships and expanded economic engagement,” he added. The SBMA top official said that with upcoming projects in railway connectivity, port modernization, clean energy, and semiconductor supply chains, “Subic Bay’s role as a premier logistics and manufacturing hub grows even stronger.” Initially launched in April 2024 as a trilateral project between the Philippines, the United States, and Japan under the G7’s Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment (PGI), the initiative has rapidly scaled into a powerful 10-nation coalition. The said visit is part of her travel to coordinate strategic infrastructure and investments alongside the Philippine government and business leaders, as the ambassador advocates for streamlining complex regulations to increase investor confidence. Variava is currently coordinating economic growth efforts for the Corridor to counter exploitative regional infrastructure programs with sustainable alternatives.            

CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, Pampanga, Philippines – Department of Finance Secretary and Investment Czar Frederick D. Go joined executives of FedEx at the groundbreaking ceremony for the expansion of the company’s Clark gateway facility, a major investment aimed at strengthening regional connectivity and reinforcing the Philippines’ role as a key trans-shipment hub within the FedEx Asia Pacific network. The expanded gateway in Clark Freeport Zone is expected to enhance cargo handling capacity and improve logistics services for businesses and communities across Central and Northern Luzon, supporting faster and more efficient movement of goods in one of the country’s rapidly growing economic corridors. “The expansion of FedEx will deepen global connectivity and strengthen local trade capabilities. Filipino firms and consumers can reach more markets while more foreign traders can reach ours. As the Asia-Pacific region grows, the Philippines will be better positioned to ride on this momentum and drive our economic growth,” said Secretary Go. Once completed, the modernized facility will span over 78,000 square meters and feature upgraded handling and operational capabilities designed to enhance shipment flow reliability and service flexibility for customers. The expanded Clark gateway will further strengthen the company’s ability to support express, e-commerce, and freight shipments, while bolstering overall network resilience as cross-border trade continues to grow across the region. “The expansion of our Clark gateway reflects our continued commitment to the Philippines and to building a smarter, more resilient network across the region,” said Masamichi Ujiie, president of FedEx North Pacific and South Pacific. “By enhancing our operational capabilities at Clark, we are better positioned to support Philippine businesses, enable efficient cross-border trade, and provide more reliable connectivity to global markets.” This development builds on the company’s growth in the Philippines, following the opening of its Clark gateway in October 2021, and the signing of a land lease agreement with Luzon International Premiere Airport Development (LIPAD) in 2024. Construction will commence in the second quarter of calendar year 2026, with Robinsons Land Corporation, engaged as the developer. Sustainability features have been incorporated into the design to help improve energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact. These include insulated building materials, energy-efficient glazing, a high-performance roofing system, LED lighting, skylights and electric vehicle charging stations, water-efficient fixtures, a rainwater collection system, and power-optimization equipment, with provisions for future solar power deployment. This latest investment aligns with the company’s broader strategy to strengthen network reliability, enhance service experience for customers and position the company to support long-term growth across the Asia Pacific region.