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.          

  CLARK, Pampanga – Tourists are now flocking to Dinosaurs Island, an interactive, animatronic theme park and outdoor museum located inside Clarkland in the Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga, Philippines. Designed as an educational adventure for families and students, the park uses life-sized mechanical dinosaurs, sensor-activated movements, and realistic sound effects to recreate the ancient Mesozoic era. The park encompasses a forest trail setting to enhance the jungle environment. Key features and sub-attractions within the complex include the Dino Trail and T-Rex Encounter: A walking path featuring approximately 30 life-sized animatronic dinosaur species—such as Tyrannosaurus Rex, Spinosaurus, Stegosaurus, and Triceratops—that move and roar as visitors approach. Jurassic Jungle Safari Ride: A guided jeep ride through a simulated jungle where mechanical dinosaurs actively chase and interact with the vehicle. Dino World of Fun: A live, interactive entertainment show featuring costumed “dancing” dinosaurs. Museums and Fossil Displays: The Unearth Museum and Fossil Garden feature replicated skeletal remains and fossil bones in glass enclosures to demonstrate how paleontologists study extinction. Insectlandia: A separate and connected zone dedicated to giant animatronic insects, featuring the Insect Trail, Insect Museum, and Bugs Kingdom Show. Wonders of the World: An exhibit featuring detailed miniature scale models of global architectural landmarks, including the Great Wall of China, the Taj Mahal, and the Egyptian Pyramids. In addition to the main trails and shows, Dinosaurs Island offers several other interactive features, cinematic experiences, and guest amenities designed to complete the theme park experience. Also featured are the 7D and 9D Super Screen Theaters, which are immersive multi-dimensional simulator rides featuring motion seats, environmental effects (such as wind and mist), and 3D graphics that place you directly in action-packed prehistoric or fantasy scenarios. “This experience is beautiful and very fun, especially the super screen theater and we really enjoyed the design that teaches children a lesson, it was worth our while to come here,” said a family from Cavite.By Zaldy Comanda        

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.