Subic Bay Freeport — The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) hosted a Locators’ Forum at the Subic Bay Travelers Hotel on May 26, 2025, gathering over 170 business locators to discuss the latest developments in logistics services, port infrastructure, and automation technologies.
SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño led the event, which was organized in partnership with the Subic Bay International Container Terminal Corp. (SBITC), the SBMA Seaport Department, and the Trade Facilitation and Compliance Department (TFCD). SBMA Director Cecile Bobadilla-Bitare was also present at the forum.
With the theme “Updates on Logistics Services, Port Projects and Automation,” the forum highlighted major infrastructure upgrades and strategic plans aimed at boosting Subic Freeport’s competitiveness as a logistics and maritime hub.
Senior Deputy Administrator for Port Operations Ronnie Yambao opened the event by showcasing the newly launched ₱233-million Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS), introduced in February 2024. The system has significantly enhanced vessel tracking, safety, and operational efficiency within the Freeport’s maritime domain.
Yambao also announced the upcoming Shore Power Connection project, which is expected to reduce air pollution from berthed vessels by up to 95 percent. Phase 1 will focus on the New Container Terminal and is slated to begin in 2026 with a ₱100-million budget. Phase 2, covering the Naval Supply Depot and Ship Repair Facility, will follow from 2027 to 2028 with an estimated cost of ₱150 million.
He further detailed several large-scale port development projects totaling approximately US$878.7 million. Key projects include:
- Container Terminal 3 with a capacity of 300,000 TEUs, estimated at US$359 million
- Multipurpose terminal at Redondo Peninsula, valued at US$162 million
- Bulk and break-bulk terminal in Lower Mau, costing US$182 million
- Dedicated cruise terminal to promote tourism, with a ₱10.2-billion investment
“These projects are designed to expand our capacity and make Subic a premier logistics hub,” Yambao said.
He emphasized that Subic Freeport’s logistics network is already well-positioned, featuring a modern container terminal with a capacity of 600,000 TEUs—expandable to one million TEUs—and access by land, sea, and air. Future integration with the Luzon Economic Corridor through a railway link is also in the pipeline.
To complement physical infrastructure upgrades, SBMA has introduced several automation initiatives to streamline cargo processing and improve efficiency. These include the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA), Electronic Transit Admission Permit System (ETAPS), and the Automated Export Documentation System (AEDS).
Looking ahead, SBMA is exploring a partnership with the Port of San Diego to develop Subic into a smart port city. The collaboration would focus on artificial intelligence integration, automation, advanced cargo handling, shore power technology, cruise ship terminal enhancements, and ship repair capabilities.
“Our goal is to modernize and transform Subic Freeport into a cutting-edge logistics and maritime center,” Yambao concluded.
